Is Flinders Chase National Park open?
The park was closed following the 2019-20 ‘Black Summer’ bushfires on Kangaroo Island but is now open. Visitors still have the opportunity to see the bush regenerate, with green shoots emerging out of a blackened landscape.
Infrastructure has been restored throughout Flinders Chase National Park, including the new visitor centre. A new boardwalk at Remarkable Rocks is finished and the road resurfaced. The Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail has also been restored. For more information about the park, including what trails are open, visit the National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia website.
What to see in Flinders Chase National Park
As well as the major sights, take a bushwalk to spot wildlife, such as Kangaroo Island kangaroos and wallabies, echidnas, goannas and the elusive platypus. Birdlife and wildflowers abound, and the recovery of the native flora and fauna can be seen first-hand. The park offers many great vantage points for whale watching. Between mid-May and late October, whales migrate from sub-Antarctic water to the comparatively warmer waters of the South Australian coast to calve and mate.
The Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail is a world class, 66km, five-day walking trail that gives you unparalleled access to some of the most rugged, remote and spectacular coastlines in South Australia. Walk the trail independently or with a licensed tour operator and witness the untamed beauty of the KI Wilderness Trail.
A number of other walks are also available, including:
- Platypus Waterholes walk
- Ravine Hike
- Harveys Return Hike
- Cape du Couedic Hike
- Return Road Hike
- Waterfall Creek Hike
Food at Flinders Chase National Park
The new visitor centre is home to The Rocks Cafe, which is open for snacks, drinks and lunch.
Otherwise, the closest places to purchase drinks, snacks and picnic essentials is the Vivonne Bay General Store on South Coast Road, about 40 minutes east of the national park entry gate, and Western KI Caravan Park, about 10 minutes from the park entry.
Accommodation in Flinders Chase National Park
Cabins
Part of the original Rocky River Homestead precinct, heritage-listed May’s Homestead and Postman’s Cottage have been brought back to life following the 2019 – 20 summer bushfires. Lovingly restored, with contemporary features throughout, the cottages offer a distinctive heritage encounter in one of South Australia’s most iconic national parks. Both properties can be booked online.
Camping
Harvey’s Return Campground is the old landing site for the Cape Borda light station and is near the historic light keepers’ cemetery. A 4WD is recommended for camping at Harvey’s Return as the gravel road to the campsite can be quite corrugated. 2WD access is subject to road conditions.
West Bay Campground is located at the western end of Flinders Chase National Park, set within a stunning coastal landscape and a short walk from a tranquil bay. This campground is 4WD only and is not suitable for caravans or large vehicles.
Campsites need to be booked prior to arrival. Book online to reserve your campsite up to 12 months in advance.
West Bay Campground, West Bay Road and Shackle Road may be closed seasonally as the roads are unsafe following rain events.
Take home memories and leave only footprints
Kangaroo Island is unique and needs your help to stay that way. Leave natural attractions as you found them and take rubbish and food scraps with you. These damage and pollute the environment, endanger wildlife habitats and can make animals sick. Keeping our environment pristine and our wildlife safe are high priorities.
Visit the West End region and Flinders Chase National Park as part of your Kangaroo Island holiday itinerary. Learn more about the best attractions in all eight Kangaroo Island regions and discover everything the island has to offer, then start planning your holiday today.
