Sheltered Estuary Camping on Kangaroo Island’s Eastern Shore
| Location | American River, Kangaroo Island |
| Region | Kangaroo Island |
| Campsite Type | Foreshore camping with powered and unpowered sites |
| Facilities | Toilets, showers, BBQs, boat ramp, playground |
| Access | Sealed road from Penneshaw (37 km) |
| Fees | From $20/night |
| Key Feature | Calm waters of Eastern Cove with pelicans, dolphins, and fishing |
Estuary Camping
American River Campground sits on the sheltered foreshore of Eastern Cove, a calm estuary on Kangaroo Island’s north-eastern coast. Named after a group of American sealers who established a boat-building operation here in the 1800s, the settlement is now a quiet fishing village where pelicans glide across the still water and dolphins are regularly spotted from the foreshore.
The campground offers both powered and unpowered sites on grassy ground beneath Norfolk Island pines, with views across the cove. Facilities include showers, toilets, BBQs, a playground, and a boat ramp. The calm waters are ideal for kayaking, fishing, and crabbing. The township has a general store, a fish and chip shop, and the award-winning Oyster Farm Shop serving fresh Kangaroo Island oysters.
Planning Your Stay
American River is located 37 kilometres from the Penneshaw ferry terminal, making it one of the most convenient camping options on Kangaroo Island. The campground is suitable for caravans, campervans, and tents. The sheltered waters make it particularly family-friendly.