National Parks of the Outback
Explore outback South Australia's National Parks to experience a tranquility and closeness to nature that's good for the soul.
Head to Flinders Ranges National Park for rugged mountain ranges, spectacular gorges and abundant wildlife. The park is recognised as one of the finest landscapes in Australia - read on below to discover why. If you'd like to see a landscape like nothing you've seen before, visit Lake Eyre National Park. When Lake Eyre does fill, it becomes the biggest lake in Australia. Read the article below for more insights.
Innamincka Regional Reserve is the only park in South Australia that encompasses an actual township, and one of only a few that allows multipurpose usage such as pastoralism and conservation. Visit the internationally diverse wildlife of the Cooper Creek system including fish, turtles, frogs and mammals. You can also explore historic sites and travel through expanses of sandy desert and arid plains. Innamincka Regional Reserve takes in Coongie Lakes National Park, a deeply spiritual site for Aboriginal people and a site that is internationally significant for its abundant and diverse bird life.
Mount Remarkable National Park boasts some of the best bushwalking opportunities in South Australia. Mount Remarkable is a mosaic of diverse habitats created by the meeting of arid zone plants and animals with the species of more temperate southern regions. A number of walking trails, including a section of the Heysen Trail, take you to the heart of this pristine environment - and to several campgrounds that can only be accessed by foot. Another must-see location is stunning Alligator Gorge.
Vulkathunha Gammon Ranges National Park is an arid wilderness of spectacular rugged ranges, deep gorges and fresh water springs. It's a haven for a diversity of wildflowers and wildlife - like the colourful Painted Dragon, the rare Balcanoona Wattle, or a Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby. Take the scenic four-wheel drive track to experience the stunning natural environment. Stay longer and enjoy the fascinating and historic cottage accommodation.
Witjira National Park is 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. There are some terrific camping spots, and the upgraded visitor facilities make your stay even more enjoyable. This culturally significant park is jointly managed with the local Irrwanyere people.
See our National Parks pages for more information on how you can explore South Australia's natural beauty.
Featured Outback National Parks
- Flinders Ranges National Park
- A trip to the Flinders is an unforgettable experience. Rugged mountain ranges, spectacular gorges, creeks lined with River Red Gums and abundant wildlife. Read More
- Lake Eyre National Park
- If you'd like to see a landscape like nothing you've seen before, visit Lake Eyre National Park. Read More
- Desert Parks Pass
- The $95 Desert Parks Pass (including permit, handbook, park maps and wildlife information) allows 12 months unlimited access to South Australia's 12 million hectares of desert parks. Read More
