Flinders Ranges Camping: An Ultimate Guide

Fresh air, starry nights and a roaring campfire: here’s everything you need to enjoy the perfect outback camping experience.

The broad horizons, endless vistas and wide-open roads of the Flinders Ranges mean you’ll never feel crowded in this corner of the country. But if you really want to settle into the pace of outback life, there’s no better way than spreading out a tent (or swag) and spending a few nights under the stars.

There are caravan parks with plenty of services dotted all along the ranges from Rawnsley Park to Arkaroola, but you’ll also find stylish glamping tents and remote bush sites among the best Flinders Ranges camping options.

1. Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park camping

Bunyeroo Valley Lookout — Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park is full of jaw-dropping spots to sit and take in the views. (Image: As We Wander)

You could spend a lifetime exploring every nook and cranny in the 95,000-hectare Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park , but it’s worth slowing down every now to observe how the angle of the sunlight dramatically alters the colour of the rocks throughout the day. The 10 campgrounds spread throughout the park are ideal for campers keen to spot some of the local wildlife and take things at a more relaxed pace.

Among the pick of the bunch are Acraman, which is located in a saddle that fills with wildflowers each spring, and Trezona, which provides access to the geological wonders and rock wallaby colonies of Brachina Gorge.

The hike-in Wilcolo Campground is a beautiful spot to spend a few days, while Dingley Dell has limited shade but is just a short walk from the Perawurtina cultural site that is known for its many Adnyamathanha rock carvings.

Cost: Camping from $25 per night
Facilities: Long drop toilets, fire pits
4WD required: It varies – check individual site listings

2. Ikara (Wilpena Pound) camping

an aerial view of the Wilpena Pound — Ikara (Wilpena Pound) is stunning from above. (Image: Emile Ristevski)

With 40 powered sites and 300 unpowered sites scattered beneath groves of majestic river red gums, you’ll have your work cut out choosing the very best spot at Wilpena Pound Caravan Park .

Fortunately, all of them have excellent views of Ikara (Wilpena Pound), and their proximity to the entrance means that you can see the Flinders Ranges’ crown jewel in its best light on a morning or afternoon walk without having to worry about driving home in the dark. Wilpena Pound Resort also offers a range of cultural and scenic tours.

Cost: Powered sites from $50 per night, camping from $31
Facilities: Camp kitchen, amenity blocks, swimming pool, general store, wifi in communal areas
4WD required: No

3. Parachilna Gorge camping

an aerial view of Angorichina Station — The nearby Angorichina Station is nestled within the hills. (Image: Angorichina Station)

Located just to the north of Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, this broad gorge scythes through the ranges from east to west. An unsealed road winding between sheer cliffs and around rocky peaks is one of the most accessible scenic drives in the region, and dozens of unmarked sites are spread out beside the road over several kilometres.

Emus, kangaroos, wallabies and an abundance of birdlife combine to make this among the most pleasant campsites in the region, though most of the gorge floor is subject to flooding and it is unsuitable for camping after rain.

There is no phone reception in Parachilna Gorge and campers need to bring their own water, food and firewood; the nearest store (and toilets) can be found at Angorichina Tourist Village, which also has powered and unpowered sites. If you’re looking for Blinman Pools camping, these are the two closest options.

Cost: By donation
Facilities: None
4WD required: No, but a high-clearance vehicle is highly recommended

4. Blinman camping

an empty road in Blinman — Soak up the surrounding landscape in Blinman. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

There is no Blinman Caravan Park, so the closest option is ONYA Eco-Camping Park , three kilometres to the south. The self-sufficient campsites here are much quieter than most caravan parks, and the spacious sites are intentionally spread out so that visitors have plenty of room to take in the surrounding landscape.

An emphasis on protecting the natural landscape means there are no pets allowed, but the friendly owners run a range of activities, including children’s programs during the school holidays, as well as providing access to a community library stocked with books, DVDs and board games.

Cost: $20 per vehicle
Facilities: Shop, community library
4WD required: No

5. Arkaroola camping

an aerial view of the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary — Spread across Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary are the 300 hectares of bush campsites. (Image: Tourism Australia; South Australian Tourism Commission)

The tortuous bends, buckles and folds in the deep red rocks around Arkaroola Caravan Park mean that every one of the 50 powered sites is blessed with an iconic outback view, as are the 300 hectares of bush campsites spread along the banks of a dry creekbed.

It’s not unusual to see kangaroos and emus wandering between the tents, and the abundance of walks, drives and tours in the region could keep you busy for a week. Because this is a remote, self-sufficient property, there are no dump facilities and campers should bring as much drinking water as possible.

Self-sufficient campers can also use a range of campsites in nearby Vulkathunha-Gammon Ranges National Park .

Cost: Powered sites from $25 per night, camping from $16
Facilities: Camp kitchen, amenity blocks, swimming pool, general store, restaurant, communal fireplace, wifi in communal areas
4WD required: No

6. Flinders Ranges glamping

the bed inside the Ikara Safari tent — The safari-style tents make for a cosy abode close to nature. (Image: Anthology Travel)

If you want to feel close to nature but still need a few creature comforts, check into one of the 15 Ikara Safari Tents near the Wilpena Pound Campground and you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

Put the kettle on and fend off the chill of cool outback nights as you sit around the fire pit and gaze up at the Milky Way, safe in the knowledge that a good night’s sleep awaits in a roomy suite with an ensuite and reverse cycle air-conditioning. The king beds can be split into two singles, while the supersized family tents can fit up to four guests.

On a station just outside Hawker, Flinders Bush Retreats has a single glamping tent with a small kitchenette, composting toilet and wool blankets to keep you warm at night, plus a welcome bottle of sparkling to make the stars shine extra bright.

7. Rawnsley Park camping

Camping Rawnsley Park Station — Camping at Rawnsley Park Station is an awe-inspiring experience. (Image: South Australia Tourism Commission)

Located directly beneath the imposing ramparts of Ikara (Wilpena Pound), Rawnsley Park Caravan Park puts you in the heart of the action and makes an excellent base from which to explore the central Flinders Ranges.

More than 50 powered and unpowered sites are scattered among the native pines and river red gums surrounding the main facilities, while the more secluded bush camping sites allow you to escape the crowds and take in magnificent sunsets and sunrises in solitude.

Cost: Powered sites from $43 per night, camping from $30
Facilities: Camp kitchen, amenity blocks, swimming pool, shop, restaurant, paid pet-minding service
4WD required: No

Things to know before camping in the Flinders Ranges

When planning a Flinders Ranges camping trip, it’s important to remember that this is a remote region and many areas do not have mobile phone service. Inform someone of your plans and expected return date before setting out, and always carry several days’ worth of extra food and water.

driving through Razorback Lookout, Flinders Ranges — Be prepared for all scenarios while camping in the Flinders Ranges. (Image: Thomas Quan)

Many gorges are prone to flash flooding, and dirt roads can be impassable after rains, so always keep an eye on the weather.

There is a total fire ban between 16 October and 15 April, and the season may be extended if conditions necessitate it.

Pets are not permitted in Ikara-Flinders Ranges or Vulkathunha-Gammon Ranges National Park.

For more inspiration and itinerary tips, read our travel guide to the Flinders Ranges.

Aussies might think they know what Port Stephens is all about – but it’s time to take another look.

You might’ve driven through this NSW coast town. Maybe even stopped for fish and chips or a quick dip. But spend a long weekend in the new Port Stephens , and you’ll seriously regret not doing it sooner. We’re talking treks across beaches, reef dives and up-close time with rescued koalas.

All in all? It only takes a day before you see Port Stephens in a whole new light, and not much longer until it’s locked in as your favourite family destination.

1. Stockton Sand Dunes

Port Stephens incredible Stockton Sand Dunes are the largest moving sand mass in the Southern Hemisphere. They shift like an endless magic trick across the Worimi Conservation Lands , a 4200-hectare coastal co-managed by the Traditional Owners.

Tear over them in a 4WD. Rev through valleys soft as melting ice cream on a quad. Carve down 30-metre slopes on a sandboard. However you choose to cross them, you’re guaranteed a seriously wild ride.

Four rugged 4WDs kick up trails of golden dust as they charge across the sweeping desert landscape. — Chase thrills across shifting sands. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Scale Tomaree Head Summit Walk

A short climb through bushland opens up to the coastal drama of Tomaree Head . Spot Zenith, Wreck and Box Beaches. See the Fingal Island lighthouse and offshore rookeries where Australia’s rarest seabird, the Gould’s petrel, nests.

History buffs can’t miss the WWII gun emplacements. And if you’re hiking between May and November, bring binoculars. Travelling whales might just be breaching below.

Friends enjoying a scenic walk along the Tomaree Head Summit Walk in Tomaree National Park, Port Stephens. — Climb Tomaree Head for jaw-dropping coastal views. (Image: Destination NSW)

3. Watch out for whales

You’ve seen the spouts of migrating humpbacks and southern right whales from shore. Set sail from Nelson Bay to see them up close. Cruise straight into the action, with tail-slaps, barrel rolls and all.

And they’ve got competition from the local show-offs. Port Stephens bottlenose dolphins leap and play. Some tours even spot pudgy fur seals, spending lazy days soaking up the sun on Cabbage Tree Island.

A whale’s tail on the sea’s surface. — Watch for ocean tails. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary

Pop into the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary to learn about the rescued koalas who climb, nap, snack and heal in this natural patch of bushland. Wander the immersive Sanctuary Story Walk to discover more about their habits, then head to the SKYwalk – a treetop platform constructed for spotting these eucalyptus-loving locals. Peek into the hospital’s viewing window, where sick or injured koalas may be resting in their recovery enclosures.

Not enough time around these adorable marsupials? Stay overnight in silk-lined glamping tents.

Koala sleeping in a tree at Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary, One Mile — See koalas in their natural habitat. (Image: Destination NSW)

5. Diving Port Stephens

Port Stephens has some of NSW’s best dive spots. At Fly Point, float through sponge gardens and coral castles thick with nudibranchs (AKA sea slugs). Halifax Park has blue gropers and crimson-banded wrasse, while Shoal Bay’s seagrass meadows hide pipefish, cuttlefish and octopus.

Accessible only by boat, Broughton Island is home to a vast array of marine (and bird) life. Snorkel with blue devilfish and stingrays at sites like The Looking Glass and North Rock. More experienced divers can head out with one of the many PADI-certified operators.

At nearby Cabbage Tree Island, expect to see shaggy-faced wobbegongs cruising along.

A couple suited up and ready to dive into adventure. — Suit up and dive into Port Stephens’ vibrant marine life. (Image: Destination NSW)

6. Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters

Not quite ready to dive in? Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters is the perfect way to spot local marine life without getting too deep. But there’s no obnoxious glass tank tapping here. Instead, this interactive aquarium allows guests to wade into natural-style lagoons that mimic the real thing.

Gently pat Port Jackson and bamboo sharks, hand-feed rays, and feel their sandpapery skin with your fingertips. It is all under expert guidance. If you want to go deeper, pop on a wetsuit and swim alongside tawny nurse sharks, white-tipped reef sharks and zebra sharks in the lagoon.

Family enjoying an animal feeding experience at Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters, Anna Bay. — Meet the ocean’s friendliest faces at Irukandji. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Fish the estuaries

Fishing fanatics will fall for Port Stephens hook, line and sinker. Here, one of the largest estuary systems in the whole state sees tidal rivers and mangrove ecosystems. Waterfronts are thick with oysters, and residential fish that might include anything from bream, whiting and flathead, to blue swimmer crabs, kingfish and longtail tuna.

If you prefer to choose your own adventure and fish offshore, you can hire a boat from one of the marinas and set your own course.

three men fishing on a boat in port stephens — Join a tour or chart your own fishing trip. (Image: Destination NSW)

8. Taste new Port Stephens flavours

With plenty of activity to fill your days, refuelling on delectable cuisine becomes equally important. And Port Stephens answers the call.

Pop into Holbert’s Oyster Farm for fresh-farmed Port Stephens rock oysters and Pacific oysters, Australian king and tiger prawns, as well as a variety of tasty sauces to try them with.

Take a group to Atmos for an authentic Greek experience over large shared dishes and Greek-inspired cocktails. Or feast on sea-to-plate, modern Australian dishes at the pet-friendly Restaurant 2317.

A plate of fresh oysters. — Slurp your way through the region’s best oysters. (Image: Destination NSW)

Start planning your Port Stephens getaway at portstephens.org.au .

The ultimate guide to camping in the Flinders Ranges