Deep Creek Conservation Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Deep Creek Conservation ParkDeep Creek & Delamere, South Australia |
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IUCN Category II (National Park)
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Nearest town or city | Cape Jervis |
Established | 30 September 1971 |
Area | 44.96 km2 (17.4 sq mi) |
Visitation | "25,000-30,000" (in 1997) |
Managing authorities | Department for Environment and Water |
Website | Deep Creek Conservation Park |
See also | Protected areas of South Australia |
Deep Creek Conservation Park is a special natural area in South Australia. It is located on the southern coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula. You can find it near the towns of Deep Creek and Delamere. It is about 11 kilometres (6.8 miles) east of Cape Jervis.
This park protects 18 kilometres (11 miles) of beautiful coastline. From here, you can see amazing views across Backstairs Passage to Kangaroo Island. The park has rolling hills that meet the ocean. In the valleys, you'll find pretty orchids and ferns. On the hilltops, there are tough, wind-swept trees and low bushes. Many walking trails, including part of the famous Heysen Trail, help you explore the park.
Deep Creek Conservation Park is known as an IUCN class II protected area. This means it is a "National Park" type of area. It is managed mainly for protecting its ecosystems and for recreation.
Explore the Park: Awesome Walks
Deep Creek Conservation Park has many different walking trails. Some are easy for a quick stroll. Others are harder hikes for a real adventure. You can even link walks together for an overnight trip!
Easy Walks for Everyone
These walks are perfect for a relaxed time in nature.
- Stringybark Loop Walk: This is a short, easy walk that takes about 20 minutes. You'll walk through forests of stringybark trees and yacca-bushes. There are signs along the way to teach you about the plants.
- Forest Circuit Walk: This easy path goes through the forest near the Stringybark Campground. It's a nice way to enjoy the trees.
- Spring Wildflower Walk: If you visit in spring, this walk is a must-do! It follows fire trails from Stringybark Campground. You'll see lots of colorful wildflowers.
Moderate Hikes: A Bit More Challenge
These hikes are a bit tougher, but they offer great rewards.
- Deep Creek Waterfall from Tent Rock Road: This trail goes steeply down to the beautiful Deep Creek Waterfall. The path is well-kept, with steps on the steepest parts. The way back up is mostly uphill, so be ready for a workout!
- Deep Creek Cove from Trig Camping Area: This path goes down to Deep Creek Cove. The way back up is a long, steady climb.
- Aaron Creek Circuit Hike: This hike loops through open areas at the top of the park. It then goes down towards Eagle Waterhole Campground. Keep an eye out for Western grey kangaroos – you might see many on this trail!
Hard Hikes: For the Adventurous
These hikes are challenging and require good fitness. Make sure you wear proper hiking boots.
- Deep Creek Cove from Tapanappa Lookout: This hike is amazing but tough! It has steep hills and some rocky parts where you might need to scramble. Be careful, as some sections are slippery and close to cliffs.
- Blowhole Beach Hike: This trail goes down to Blowhole Beach from Cobbler Hill. It can get very windy here! The path isn't too rough, but the climb back up is long and steep.
- Deep Creek Waterfall from Tapanappa Lookout: Another challenging hike with long, steep ups and downs. This walk takes you deep into the thick plants of Deep Creek. It's not a gentle stroll!
- Aaron Creek Hike: This trail follows the creek all the way to the coast. You'll cross the creek many times and see stunning views.
The Famous Heysen Trail
The Heysen Trail is a very long walking trail in South Australia. A part of it goes through Deep Creek Conservation Park. It starts near Blowhole Beach, close to Cape Jervis. The trail goes through Eagle Waterhole, Trig Campground, and past Deep Creek Waterfall. It then leaves the park at Boat Harbour beach. You'll know you're on the Heysen Trail by its red and white markers.
Camping Under the Stars
Deep Creek Conservation Park has five different camping areas. They offer various facilities for campers.
- Stringybark: This spot is sheltered by trees. It has 16 campsites, hot showers, toilets, and rainwater. Some sites are big enough for caravans and camp trailers. There are no powered sites.
- Trig: This campground is in the middle of the main hiking trails. It has open grassy areas with many shady spots. There are 25 sites, toilets, and rainwater. Caravans and camp trailers can fit here too. No powered sites are available.
- Tapanappa: This area has 18 campsites, some with good shelter. You'll find amazing coastal views nearby. Toilets and rainwater are available.
- Cobbler Hill: This spot has 10 campsites with toilets and rainwater. It's close to Blowhole Beach. It can be windy here on blustery days.
- Eagle Waterhole: This campsite is right on the Heysen Trail. Only hikers can use it. There's a small hut for hikers and a tank for rainwater.