Lake Eyre Camping Guide: Where to Camp, Access Routes & Outback Tips
Camping at Lake Eyre is not about convenience — it’s about isolation, scale, and timing. This is one of the most remote camping destinations in Australia, where access is almost entirely 4WD-only, facilities are minimal, and the experience changes dramatically depending on whether the lake is dry or flooded. One year you’ll camp beside endless white salt stretching to the horizon; another year you may wake to birds, water reflections, and a temporary inland sea.
Most camping options are spread across Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre National Park and nearby pastoral land, with sites ranging from managed campgrounds to completely dispersed bush camps. Preparation is everything here — water, fuel, navigation, and weather checks are non-negotiable.
This guide breaks down the best Lake Eyre camping spots, official and private campgrounds, free camping areas, access routes, and practical safety tips so you can plan with confidence.
Discover your perfect site below.
Campgrounds Inside Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre National Park
Camping within the national park offers the closest access to the lake itself and the most iconic views. These sites are basic but well-positioned for birdwatching, photography, and experiencing Lake Eyre’s scale.
Official Campground Comparison
| Campground | Location | Facilities | Cost / Night | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Halligan Bay Point | Eastern shore via Oodnadatta Track | Drop toilets, picnic tables; tents only (20 sites) | $22.30 per vehicle (permit required) |
Flood events, birdwatching |
| Elliot Price Conservation Park | Near southern basin | Basic drop toilets | Free (permit required) |
Quiet, remote seclusion |
Halligan Bay Point
Halligan Bay is the most well-known Lake Eyre campground. It sits right on the edge of Lake Eyre North and becomes exceptional during flood years, when pelicans and wading birds gather nearby. Sites are unpowered and tent-only, which keeps numbers low and the atmosphere quiet.
Elliot Price Conservation Park
This lesser-used area near Lake Eyre South is ideal for campers seeking solitude. Facilities are minimal, but crowds are rare, making it a good option outside peak seasons.
Access Guide
4WD access only
From Marree, allow around 250 km of unsealed driving
Always check current conditions and closures at parks.sa.gov.au
Park Rules (Strictly Enforced)
No campfires
Pack out all waste
Drones prohibited
Stay on marked tracks only
Station Stays and Private Camping Options
For those wanting a balance between remoteness and basic comfort, nearby stations and town camps provide reliable accommodation alternatives.
Muloorina Station
Muloorina Station is a popular stop south of Lake Eyre, offering:
Toilets and basic amenities
Camping fees around $20 per night
Access to nearby claypans, perfect for experienced 4WD drivers
It’s also one of the best spots to base yourself while waiting on flood updates.
Anna Creek Station
Known as the largest cattle station in the world, Anna Creek allows limited pastoral camping by arrangement. Expect:
Very basic conditions
No facilities
Genuine outback isolation
This option suits self-contained, experienced outback travellers only.
William Creek Campground
William Creek is the most serviced hub near Lake Eyre and a favourite for caravanners.
Powered and unpowered sites
Hot showers and toilets
Iconic outback pub and fuel
Scenic flight departures
Free and Dispersed Camping Near Lake Eyre
For budget-conscious or highly self-sufficient travellers, dispersed camping is possible along major outback tracks. These areas are unmanaged and require careful planning.
Cooper Creek (Birdsville Track)
Toilets available
Non-potable water
Pet-friendly, which is rare in the region
Excellent birdlife after rain
Mt Gason Creek / Curdmurka Area
Remote bush camps
Fire pits (check current fire restrictions)
Suitable for camper trailers
Gregory Creek (Oodnadatta Track)
Popular free stop
Excellent stargazing
Minimal traffic compared to main hubs
Preparation Rule:
Carry at least 20 litres of water per person per day when bush camping in this region.
Access Routes and Logistics
Getting to Lake Eyre is part of the adventure — and part of the risk if underprepared.
From Adelaide
Distance: approx. 750 km
Route: Adelaide → Flinders Ranges → Marree
Last major fuel stop: Leigh Creek
Key Tracks
Oodnadatta Track: Corrugated, rocky, prone to closures
Birdsville Track: Sandy sections, wide open plains
Best Time to Go
May to October
Cooler temperatures
Reduced risk of heat stress and vehicle failure
Essential Gear Checklist
Satellite phone or emergency beacon
Two spare tyres minimum
Recovery boards and air compressor
Paper maps (do not rely on mobile signal)
Visual Guide Suggestion: Numbered step infographic for trip preparation.
Camping Tips and Safety
Before leaving sealed roads, always check:
Flood status via bom.gov.au
Road conditions via SA outback bulletins
Flood years bring wildlife and scenery — but also soft ground and sudden closures.
Nearby Amenities
Coward Springs (approx. 130 km west)
Hot showers
Campground
Historic railway site
Cultural Awareness
Lake Eyre sits on Arabana Country. Respect is essential:
No off-track driving
Do not disturb cultural sites
Leave campsites exactly as found
Scenic Add-Ons and Sample Itinerary
One of the best ways to understand Lake Eyre’s scale is from the air.
Scenic Flights
Depart from William Creek
Best during partial or full floods
Ideal for photography
3-Day Camping Loop
Day 1: Marree → Halligan Bay
Day 2: Halligan Bay → William Creek
Day 3: Return via Oodnadatta Track
Perfect for first-time visitors with a capable 4WD.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Lake Eyre camping rewards those who plan well, respect the land, and embrace isolation. Whether you choose a national park site, a station stay, or remote bush camping, preparation is key. Secure permits early and consider a Desert Parks Pass before heading out.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes. All access tracks are unsealed and conditions can change rapidly.
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Check national park bulletins and BOM updates (conditions vary yearly as of 2026).
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Only at selected sites such as Cooper Creek — pets are not allowed inside national parks.