Police and paramedics were called to a camping ground at Telowie Beach, in Germein Bay, just before 10.30pm Thursday night, where they found the body of Rory Elliot, a 49-year-old Nuriootpa man known to family as “Meggs”.

A 39-year-old Port Pirie man, who is known to the victim, was arrested near the body.

At the scene Friday afternoon, about 235km north of Adelaide, Superintendent Mid-North Commander Damian Powell said police would not reveal possible motives behind the murder.

Supt Powell also said he was not prepared to confirm if a weapon was used during the killing.

“All I can say is (it is) alleged an altercation is believed to have occurred between the two men sometime prior to the death,” he said.

“We’re conducting searches of the immediate area where the man was found and there may be further searches conducted.

“It’s a land search, police and SES personnel are doing that and looking for any evidence that may assist.”

Supt Powell said police were unaware of any witnesses to the murder and it is still unclear why both men were in such a remote location.

Police leading Friday’s line search have already identified key areas of interest which could help piece together the final moments leading up to the murder.

Investigators will also comb over the movements of both men before they met Thursday.

Just before 4pm, Matthew James Loleit faced the Port Pirie Magistrates Court charged with murder.

Loleit’s appearance was connected to Port Adelaide Magistrate John Wells by video link.

Loleit stood silently wearing a police issue white forensic jumpsuit, and with his hands both cuffed and bandaged, as his lawyer said he would not be seeking release on bail.

Mr Wells remanded Loleit in custody to face court again in May.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.