Camping And Caravanning In The Red Centre

To truly appreciate the beauty of the Red Centre you need to spend a night or more under the stars.

Road-tripping in the Red Centre, from Alice Springs to Uluru, is nothing short of an epic adventure. To truly connect to the land, you’ll need to sleep close to the earth. Whether it be in a swag, caravan or luxurious safari tent with a plunge pool, the Red Centre is an idyllic place to sleep under the starry skies.

A straight 5.5-hour drive on the sealed Stuart and Lasseter highways from Alice Springs will take you to Uluru, but why rush? From Alice Springs, once you’ve ticked off the East MacDonnell Ranges, take time to soak in the exquisite gorges of the West MacDonnell National Park, where you can camp in the park at Ormiston Gorge, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Redbank Gorge, Serpentine Chalet and Finke Two Mile.

Once you’ve packed up your tent in the West Macs, continue to Watarrka National Park, home to the mighty Kings Canyon and then it’s another 300 kilometres to the giant monolith that is Uluru.

Here’s a closer look at some of the best camping and caravanning spots the Red Centre has to offer. We’ve already got an article about caravanning and camping around Alice Springs. You can check that out here.

Kings Creek Station

Stunning scenery, camels, cattle and a wide range of accommodation options: that’s what the vast Kings Creek Station offers.

Located just 36 kilometres from Kings Canyon, the 180,000-hectare cattle station is on Luritja Road, which connects the Lasseter Highway to Larapinta Drive (the main route through the West MacDonnell Ranges). Cautious travellers should go via the sealed Lasseter, while the more adventurous might prefer the dirt and corrugations of the Red Centre Way (formerly the Mereenie Loop Road).

an aerial view of Kings Creek Station — Base yourself close to Kings Canyon at this excellent station stay. (Image: Tourism NT/Kings Creek Station)

Set among tall desert oaks, the campground features powered and unpowered sites, a pool, campfire, hot showers and toilets. If you want to take it up a notch, pick a tent in one of the three glamping sections – Mort Conway Camp, Drovers Dream and the Dreamtime Escarpment.

the balcony view at Kings Creek Station — The safari tents offer spectacular views. (Image: Tourism NT/Kings Creek Station)

All the safari tents boast air conditioning, plush beds, ensuites, barbecues and the option of a buffet breakfast, breakfast hamper and self-cook barbecue dinner pack. The Dreamtime Escarpment abodes are the crème de la crème of the safari tents, thanks to their elevated platforms, outdoor showers, shared plunge pool and large verandahs, negating the need to head anywhere else for a sundowner. Experiences at the station include helicopter flights, buggy rides and cultural tours.

a look inside the safari-style tent at Kings Creek Station — The safari tents feature air conditioning and plush beds. (Image: Tourism NT/Kings Creek Station)

Facilities: powered, unpowered, camp kitchen, showers, toilets, fire pits, swimming pool, café, pet friendly, laundry.

Discovery Resorts – Kings Canyon

Your idyllic days at Discovery Resorts – Kings Canyon will be spent exploring Watarrka National Park, just ten minutes from this remote resort-style retreat.

the view at Discovery Kings Canyon Resort near Watarrka National Park — Settle into the remote resort-style retreat at Discovery Kings Canyon Resort.

The private deck attached to the Deluxe Suites at Discovery Parks - Kings Canyon — The perfect place to take in your surroundings at the end of the day.

The campsite boasts uninterrupted views of Kings Canyon with plenty of powered and unpowered sites and ablution blocks, plus a pool and two restaurants. For those looking for more luxurious accommodation, there are resort rooms and glamping tents.

The bathtub in the deluxe suite at Discovery Parks - Kings Canyon Resort — The bathtub in the deluxe suite is a real showstopper.

Inside the Deluxe Suite at Discovery Parks - Kings Canyon Resort — Staying in the outback doesn’t mean you have to rough it.

Facilities: powered, unpowered, camp kitchen, showers, toilets, swimming pool, restaurant, tennis court, petrol station, laundry.

Curtin Springs Wayside Inn

Just a stone’s throw away from Uluru (a mere 85 kilometres away), Curtin Springs serves as an ideal base for exploring the nearby natural wonders without breaking the bank.

Be prepared for an all-dirt campground, which is part of a working cattle station, giving you a unique glimpse into the day-to-day life of the Australian outback.

an aerial view of Curtin Springs Wayside Inn — The rustic campground is part of a working cattle station. (Image: Tourism Australia/Global Headquarters)

There is no charge for unpowered sites, while those who want to splash out a little can book a powered site or one of the 27 rooms, which range in size from twin rooms with shared bathrooms to abodes that sleep five with private ensuites.

a man serving food to the couple at the restaurant of Curtin Springs Wayside Inn — The in-house restaurant serves home-style meals. (Image: Tourism Australia/Global Headquarters)

Facilities: pet-friendly, powered, unpowered, barbeque area, fire pits, showers, toilets, restaurant, petrol station.

Giles Track camping

Camping is not permitted in Watarrka National Park, except for hikers on the 22-kilometre Giles Track. Walkers can camp anywhere between the three-kilometre and 20-kilometre markers, but the best spot is at Reedy Creek. If you’re a visitor to the NT, you will need a park pass .

Facilities: none.

Discovery Resorts – Glen Helen

Discovery Resorts – Glen Helen is currently closed due to water issues.

an aerial view of Discover Resorts - Glen Helen — Discover Resorts – Glen Helen is an outback haven. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

For more incredible ways to experience the Red Centre read our guide to Alice Springs and Uluru.

Be invigorated by the sights, sounds and landscapes of the Northern Territory.

If your 2026 travel goals focus on visiting inspiring and meaningful destinations, look no further than the Northern Territory. Rich in Indigenous culture, national parks and unique local cuisine, a journey deep into the Red Centre and Top End will awaken all your senses and leave you with lifelong memories. But you don’t need to do it on your own, as AAT Kings’ Small Group tours offer expertly led itineraries. They’re designed to take the guesswork out of travel planning and help you access remote regions in comfort while connecting with fellow guests, allowing you to delve deeper into destinations with insights from knowledgeable Travel Directors and local Indigenous guides.

As Small Group tours with AAT Kings have an average of just 16 guests, there’s ample opportunity to ask questions and make meaningful connections on every visit. Here are just a few of the experiences on offer, with adventures designed to invigorate every sense.

1. Under a Desert Moon dinner

Under a Desert Moon dinner in northern territory — Watch the stars come out over five courses.

Over five courses, dine under the stars during an unforgettable Outback dining experience. As day fades to night, lit only by the moon and the crackling fire, this outdoor dinner features locally sourced seasonal produce, matched with Australian wines.

It’s an intimate experience, showcasing the quiet grandeur of the Outback after nightfall. As you dine, feel connected to the land and its unique flavours, introduced by your impeccable waitstaff.

Part of the Northern Territory Dreaming tour, the Under a Desert Moon dinner is the ideal way to connect with your small group of fellow travellers after an invigorating day in the Red Centre.

2. Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience

The best way to learn the stories of the Red Centre is by connecting with the land’s Traditional Owners. At the Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience, visited on AAT Kings Northern Territory Dreaming and Outback Contrasts tours, you’ll meet with members of the local Wanmarra community in Kings Canyon.

On this immersive AAT Kings MAKE TRAVEL MATTER^® Experience you’ll walk on Country to learn firsthand about bush tucker, Indigenous medicine, wooden artefacts and the art of dot painting. Passionate guides will share stories that have been passed down for generations.

3. Kungkas Can Cook

Kungkas Can Cook set up at Simpson's Gap — Taste local bush delicacies. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Mel Brautigam)

The powerful senses of smell and taste are awakened on this exclusive experience led by Indigenous chef Rayleen Brown. Included in the Northern Territory Dreaming and Outback Contrasts tours, this is a unique opportunity to savour local bush delicacies and learn about Indigenous culture through the lens of food.

Brown, a recipe author and guest judge for MasterChef Australia, works solely with native ingredients directly harvested by women from the Alice Springs community. It’s a 100 per cent Indigenous owned and run business.

4. Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)

woman walking by Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) — See striking Karlu Karlu. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom And Jesso)

Appearing out of nowhere, the huge granite boulders of Karlu Karlu seem to precariously balance on the barren Outback landscape. You’ll come across these geological formations as you cruise the Stuart Highway on the Northern Territory Explorer tour.

Your AAT Kings Travel Director will share expert insight on the history and culture of Karlu Karlu, recognised as a sacred site of the Warumungu people. As you walk in awe amongst these stunning formations, formed many millennia ago, you’ll hear some of the stories behind why this place is so important to Indigenous storytelling and culture.

5. Pudakul

Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours — Experience this family-owned Indigenous experience. (Images: Tourism & Events NT/ Helen Orr)

Make authentic cultural connections when you visit Pudakul, a family-owned Indigenous experience on the Adelaide River Flood Plains. On your Small Group Northern Territory Explorer tour your senses will be inspired by the sounds of First Nations music, the taste of local bush tucker and the beauty of art.

This AAT Kings MAKE TRAVEL MATTER^® Experience is designed to take you deeper into the destination, helping guests learn from the people of the Limilngan-Wulna Land.

6. Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise

Observing the unique wildlife of the Northern Territory – from formidable crocs to hearing gentle melodies from the many endemic bird species – is always one of the most memorable parts of your Northern Territory Dreaming tour.

Travel in the comfort of your premium coach, taking in the stunning landscapes, before arriving at Corroboree Billabong. This special place is part of the Mary River Wetlands and is home to the world’s largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles. Your comfortable boat is designed to maximise wildlife viewing, giving you a front row seat to this spectacular ecosystem.

7. Aboriginal Bush Traders

artist at Aboriginal Bush Traders in darwin — Visit for the art, stay for a bite. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Shaana McNaught)

A visit to Aboriginal Bush Traders is the ideal introduction to the vibrant city of Darwin. This non-profit gallery, cafe and retail space supports Indigenous employment and is the perfect place to find a curated selection of ethical Indigenous gifts, including artwork and organic skincare.

Your Northern Territory Top End National Parks and Northern Territory Dreaming tours include an exclusive native flavour tasting, offering cultural insight before travelling deeper into the Top End.

8. Leliyn (Edith Falls)

woman swimming in Leliyn (Edith Falls) — Cool off at Leliyn (Edith Falls). (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ As We Wander)

There’s something about a mighty waterfall that invigorates the soul like nothing else, with the picturesque Leliyn (Edith Falls) the perfect place to refresh on a hot day.

On your Northern Territory Top End National Parks and Northern Territory Dreaming visit to Nitmiluk National Park, known for its epic sandstone gorges, you’ll pay a visit to the oasis that is Leliyn. It’s the ideal place for a swim, but it’s also home to ancient Indigenous rock art. And as your Travel Director will explain, it’s an impressive place of cultural significance, too.

Make 2026 the year to discover the flavours, culture and beauty of the Northern Territory at aatkings.com.

The ultimate guide to camping and caravanning in the Red Centre