BIG4 Port Elliot Holiday Park

The rest of the park looked well maintained, which made the state of our site all the more frustrating. It was sold as a maintained grass site, but that description was completely misleading. There were oversized trees dropping leaves, bark, and debris everywhere, and we slept in swags among huge exposed roots. That was uncomfortable and felt unsafe. Two large dead branches hung over the site throughout our stay, too. We drove eight hours to BIG4 Port Elliot Caravan Park and paid over $1000 for ten days, only to end up on what felt like the worst site in the park. Management showed no concern and made no effort to fix the problem, despite the safety risks and misleading listing. This spot should cost much less or be honestly described as a bush camp, not a standard powered grass site. Free camping would have been better. It’s a real shame, because the park could be great if they were honest about sub-standard sites and took responsibility.

On the day we arrived, winds were around 55 km/h. With small tents, having both cars available would have helped shelter us and store our belongings. Instead, we had to squeeze everything into one car, which added stress and disrupted our stay. We’d booked one camping site for four adults and two children, two families in all. Since we had small tents and didn’t need much room, one site seemed sensible. Booking two sites, one for each family, would have cost the same, and we didn’t want to block an extra spot other guests could use. At check-in, though, staff told us we couldn’t have two cars on the site. We tried explaining our situation and that this hadn’t been an issue at other Big4 locations, but were told each park has its own rules. As two families with separate belongings, this restriction was a real inconvenience. We’ve used Big4 facilities for years and stayed at several parks. This experience left us disappointed and has made us reconsider staying with Big4 again.

We spent two weeks on a beachfront powered site and had a fabulous stay. The pitches are roomy enough for caravans of all shapes and sizes, and nearly all have a large synthetic mat. Both amenities blocks were clean and well kept, and the camp kitchen had plenty of equipment. There are lovely walks with stunning views right near the park, and it’s a handy base for exploring the Fleurieu Peninsula. Town is about a ten-minute walk away, with the usual seaside town conveniences. My wife and I will definitely return to Big4 Port Elliot Holiday Park.

The central spot near town and the beach is great, but squeezing 250 sites into the space makes it feel like sardines. It doesn’t feel like a beachfront holiday, and it’s a pity Port Elliot has no other option. It’s also disappointing to see the same people dominating the sites year after year. A ballot might give others a chance at the preferred spots.