Mt Gambier

Beautiful gardens set in a natural sinkhole. Very peaceful spot except at twilight when it is packed with birds and other wildlife who feed here.

During summer this volcanic crater lake is a vibrant blue colour. Unfortunately you can't swim in the lake but it worth a look while passing through Mt. Gambier.

Follow Bay Rd into Riddoch Hwy. Turn right at Mt. Salt Rd another 18km or so. You will get to this beautiful pool surrounded by cliffs. You can jump again and again into the clear deep water. Water quality is questionable but it looks good.

Follow Riddoch Hwy and turn left at Post Office Rd for Mount Schank. An extinct volcano rising from the plains. Two steep walking tracks one on the inside and one on the outside of the crater. Try the walk along the crater rim.

Follow Riddoch Highway south and turn off at Lower Nelson Rd West. You will find a group of three limewater ponds about ten metres deep with clear waters. The ponds are linked by shallow creek sections and you can snorkel the length of them out to the ocean. Incredible experience if you can deal with the cold water. Roads are unsealed but should be fine for 2wd. Keep driving East along Eight Mi ..

Famous for its fossil deposits. You can take a tour through the Fossil Centre here to see the caves and get more info on the fossils. They also have ‘adventure caving’ tours. They have a range of accommodation options here.

Two interlinked crystal clear ponds. Great for diving. You can’t snorkel to the coast here though the ponds are connected to the ocean. Great for photos and for a dip.

Beautiful sinkhole dive. You will need a permit but it is worth going down just to have a look. For a permit email forestry.recreationse@sa.gov.au. Like many sinkholes in the area it may be best to go through the local dive centre.

Mt. Gambier Dive Centre that can help you with all with cave and sinkhole dives in the region. They have courses and gear hire.

Nice hotel and hostel in an old prison.

Not many rangers here. A seasonal wetland with lots of wildlife and birds. There can be snakes here. Lots of space and some shade at this campsite. Don’t expect to see any water in the lagoon in Summer.