Para Wirra Conservation Park

On the northern edge of the Mount Lofty Ranges, where the hills run down toward the Barossa, the park spreads across woodland and gullies about forty kilometres north of Adelaide. Walking trails range from easy lakeside strolls to grade-four climbs, and the Barossa Goldfields section holds the mining ruins of an earlier era. A lake with picnic and barbecue areas anchors the day-visit end of the park; there is a nature play forest at Gawler View, mountain-bike and horse-riding trails, and the 19-site Wirra Campground. Vehicle entry fees apply, and dogs are allowed on leads.