Located roughly 180km north-east of Oodnadatta on the western edge of the Simpson Desert in the Witjira National Park is Dalhousie Springs - a true outback oasis.
To get here, most folks start their trip from the Mount Dare pub (approximately 50km to the west). Mt Dare is also your last stop where food, fuel and accommodation are all available before tackling the Simpson Desert.
It’s important to note that you will need a Desert Parks Pass to visit Dalhousie Springs, and being a national park, you’ll have to book and pay for your camping ahead of time (there are no mobile phone signals out here).
Don’t forget your sand flag either, it is a must, and the specific requirements can be found in your Desert Parks Pass, which is full of interesting information.
What are the roads like getting there?
If you’re heading into Dalhousie Springs from the West (Mt Dare) or South (Oodnadatta) the track conditions are rough and rocky – strictly 4X4 country only.
Or if you’re coming in from the East (through the Simpson Desert), it’s the perfect way to wash off a week’s worth of desert travel.
As someone who regularly travels off-road to reach destinations like Dalhousie Springs, it’s reassuring to know that even out here, in this rough and unforgiving country, that my Club 4X4 policy covers me.
So – when is the best time of year to go?
Winter is the best time of year to enjoy the region, and it can get quite busy, so plan and book well ahead of time to avoid disappointment. Despite its reasonably remote location, it offers some terrific facilities. There are hot showers, toilets and even laundry facilities!
Fires are permitted between April & October but be sure to bring your wood with you as it’s illegal to remove firewood from a national park.
With the average temperature from June – August ranging between 3-20C degrees, a dip into the balmy 37C mineral hot springs is the highlight of any desert adventure. The water temperature is constant 24/7, 365 days a year… it is an experience not to be missed!
Find out more about how to book camping and a Desert Parks pass.
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