Witjira National Park (Dalhousie Springs)
Experience the arid beauty of Witjira. It's suited to well-prepared travellers and located off the Stuart Highway.
Go four-wheel-driving on one of the defined public access roads and visit Dalhousie Springs, Australia's largest complex of artesian springs. The need to protect and rehabilitate the 70 or so thermal springs in the Dalhousie complex was one of the main reasons for the establishment of Witjira National Park. The springs are home to unique species of fish such as the Lake Eyre Hardy-head and other rare aquatic life. They are also a haven for birdlife.
Native mammals are generally rare or not easily seen. The exception are Dingoes, often seen hunting, and the occasional Red Kangaroo. Most of the mammals you are likely to come across are introduced species - rabbits, feral cats, camels and horses.
Travelling from Adelaide, Witjira National Park is reached via Port Augusta, Coober Pedy, Marla, Oodnadatta, Hamilton Station and on to Eringa or Dalhousie Springs. Alternatively, come north through Marree, William Creek and Oodnadatta then to Hamilton Station.
Travelling west from the Simpson Desert, go via the French Track to Purni Bore and Dalhousie Springs. If coming south from the Northern Territory, enter via Kulgera, Finke, New Crown and Charlotte Waters or via Old Andado Station.
There are some terrific camping spots here, and the upgraded visitor facilities make your stay even more enjoyable. This culturally significant park is jointly managed with the local Irrwanyere people. Facilities include toilets, camping site, swimming, public telephone, shower, 4WD access only.
The Department of Environment and Heritage has a website dedicated to Witjira National Park - go there for more details of its attractions.
