Onkaparinga River National Park

I love bushwalking here.Pros:-Lots of different trails for all levels of fitness-Not super busy so a nice way to walk and feel close to nature an away from people-Easy to get to, several different starting points and parking areas-Amenities at some of the gates" to the bushwalks/trails-Lots of animals and beautiful scenery-Informative signage at entries and also signposts along walks-Maps available on line through avenza maps so you can pinpoint where you are and where you're going-just a really pretty part of the world to walk in-pumchbowl lookout is also really cool

Beautiful park. Hardy’s Scrub Hike is a well signposted walk for about 2 hours along paths ranging from sandy, to clay to gravel. Although not wheelchair or pram friendly, young children should find it okay as there are not many hilly bits. There are lots of birdlife and orchids out (in Spring), and I even spotted a koala and kangaroos. Note: there are no toilets at parking places so go beforehand.

This was my first going for a hike at Onkaparinga River National Park and I really had a great time. The footpath takes on a trip around the national park and every kilometer or two you get this stop where the view of the hills is absolutely beautiful and stunning. We walked all the way down to where the river is and that was probably my favourite part of the experience. It was very quiet and far away from the noise pollution, you really a great sense nature surrounding you. If you go really early you get to see few kangaroos and sometime you will come across some koalas. Few recommendations when you to this national park: wear proper hiking shoes as the footpath can be slippery, bottle of water per person and be wary of the plants as you walk past them as some are prickly and may get scratched a bit.

I had a good hr hike, great views, peaceful, and saw the biggest Echidna ever! It was quite a rough track in places. I found the signage confusing on the track and got lost for a while. My phone was low on battery, so I couldn't download the app with directions. Next time, I'll make sure.

We parked our caravan at Pink Gums Camping Ground for 4 nights in late May. The weather was overcast and showery but that made for ideal walking conditions. The River Hike is a 4.5km return hike from the parking area down to the gorge. Although there is quite a climb into and out of the gorge the track zigzags around the hills to keep the grade manageable. The scenery along the route and in the gorge is beautiful and well worth the walk.The campground is well maintained and basic. 11 sites , each with a firepit are all within walking distance of the single flushing toilet. No other facilities are provided. Sites are bookable online.

It's rare to come across this much space in nature to explore. Enjoy it!

I did the gorge walk - let me tell you, this track is not for the inexperienced, faint of heart, or unfit. It was magical! From the descent into the gorge, to finding your own way along the river, to ascending the gorge - there was something to see and experience at every phase. I personally avoided the tall grass parts of the track due to sighting a few red belly black snakes - opting to climb the rocks to the side. Make sure you pack at least 2L water per person if you decide to also do the gorge track! Can't recommend it enough!

Absolutely love this park , well signposted excellent trails good hiking boots essential , wildlife abundant highly recommended

I must preface by saying this is a beautiful park, well maintained, and a treat very close to home.My only complaint is the terrible signposting throughout the park, many people below complain about getting lost, and it's very easy to do so. Even using both trailforks, Strava, and google maps, it's easy to get off trails due to poor signposting. With the challenge a lot of these trails present, it's only a matter of time untill somebody Ill prepared gets hurt.Additionally, I must say that gorge trail is near impossible to pass on a mountain bike. Even a professional on a dual suspension bike would have extreme trouble going down this trail, let alone a recreational rider. Extremely skinny, extremely steep, and gigantic rocks that block the path at many turns. Use extreme caution.Punchbowl trail great though.