Conservation & National Parks

Bi-centennial Turret

A gentle walk to the top of the curving turret (wheelchair friendly) allows views of Mount Schank, Mount Gambier, Cape Northumberland and Cape Douglas all named by Lieutenant James Grant when he observed the coastline from the HMS Lady Nelson in December 1800.


Canunda National Park

Discover a spectacular coastline of cliffs and long stretches of surf beaches in Canunda National Park. Featuring a diversity of coastal habitats, Canunda offers great opportunities to enjoy 4-wheel driving, bush walking, observe local bird life, surf the waves or snorkel among the fish. The Wattle Rangers 4WD Club Inc in conjunction with the Department of Environment and Heritage, have produced a 'mud map' as a courtesy to visitors, which is intended as a guide only.

Find out more about the Canunda coastline and surf beaches here.


Cape Northumberland Park

Cape Northumberland Lighthouse

Experience the magnificent rugged coastline, natural vegetation and uninterrupted ocean views at South Australia’s most southerly point. Cape Northumberland is the site of the first mainland lighthouse in South Australia built in 1858, and the replacement lighthouse built 1882. It is one of the most spectacular locations for an uninterrupted view of the sunrise and sunset of the Southern Ocean.

The Southern Ocean has been carving impressions for thousands of years where the water meets the mainland. Rock formations locally called Rhino, Frog, Crocodile and Camel Rocks, Lobster Pot Rocks and Map of Australia Reef can all be seen from the lighthouse area at Cape Northumberland.


Dingley Dell Conservation Park

Please note: Dingley Dell Conservation Park is currently closed to the public.

Set in the idyllic bush setting of Dingley Dell Conservation Park is the former home of one of Australia's famous poets.

The eccentric and talented Adam Lindsay Gordon lived at Dingley Dell from 1864 until 1867. It was during his stay that his first poem was published outside of a newspaper or magazine. Success continued, with the number of his published works increasing between 1865 and 1867.

Dingley Dell cottage is now a museum offering guided tours. Displays depict Adam Lindsay Gordon's life and works, as well as the history of the cottage.

Find out more about this historical building here.


Ewens Ponds Conservation Park

Ewens Ponds

Located 6 kilometers north east of Port MacDonnell, this is an important and interesting wetland habitat characterised by dense Stringybark, Blackwood, Christmas Bush and a range of interesting orchids. It is also an area of sinkholes which are popular with divers.

Find out more about the spring-fed limestone ponds here.


Finger Point Conservation Park

Popular surfing swimming and diving spot with 30 minute; and two hour walking trails near township of Port MacDonnell.


Piccaninnie Ponds Conservation Park - Karst Wetlands Ramsar Site

Some of Australia’s most significant wetlands are found in this area, and Piccaninnie Ponds Conservation Park has been declared a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance.

Find out more about the spectacular underwater world of Piccaninnie Ponds here.


Telford Scrub Conservation Park

ScrubTake a walk along the forest canopy boardwalk to experience the remaining native forest within Telford Scrub Conservation Park. The boardwalk is 100 metres long and just over 4 metres high and is placed amongst the branches of the trees, enabling visitors to catch a glimpse of the many birds that live there.

Interpretative signs along the walking trails highlight some of the park's features. Choose between this easy one hour walk or the more adventurous two and a half hour Stringybark Forest Walking Trial.  A small clearing amongst the vegetation is an ideal spot to enjoy a picnic and has picnic tables.

Koalas were introduced into the park in 1997 from Kangaroo Island. The vulnerable Southern Brown Bandicoot and the endangered Sugar Glider can also be found. Some of the most beautiful plants in the forest are the native orchids. Over 20 species have been found in the park including Pink Fingers, Common Donkey Orchid, Tiger Orchid, and Purple Cockatoo.

Find out more about the forest canopy boardwalk experience here.