Kathleen Creek Campsite – Oodnadatta Track
Kathleen Creek campsite is a popular free camp site on the Oodnadatta Track. It’s about 84 kilometres from Oodnadatta heading towards Marla. The creek runs right alongside the track making it easy to spot.
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Kathleen Creek Campsite Location And Info At A Glance
Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping / Bush Camping
Location: -27.204822°, 134.752916°
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Marree: 489km
Distance From Oodnadatta: 84km
Distance From Marla: 170km
Kathleen Creek Camp Site Oodnadatta Track On Google Earth
Finding Kathleen Creek Campsite
There’s no sign telling you where to turn – you just pull off when you see the creek. You can camp on either side, east or west. Most people don’t drive too far in, maybe 100 to 500 metres at most. We’ve seen plenty of big caravans and motorhomes get in here without no trouble.
Recent roadworks have made access much better than it used to be. Still, you wouldn’t want to attempt this after heavy rain. The ground would turn into a real mess.
What’s Available
There are no facilities here. No toilets, no bins, no water taps. You need to bring everything with you and take it all away again. The ground is mostly flat and there’s usually some shade from the trees along the creek.
The creek itself sometimes has water in it but after dry spells it’ll have little to nothing in it. Sometimes there’s enough water for a quick wash or even a swim on a hot day. Other times it’s completely dry. Either way the trees are always there providing habitat for lots of birds.
Choosing Your Spot
- We’ve camped on the western side of the creek (the eastern side had more evidence of cattle).
- You can camp close to the road and still get nice creek views.
- If you want more privacy the tracks continue further along the creek with plenty of options.
- Even when there are several groups here there’s enough space for everyone.
Birds And Animals
The bird life here is fantastic, especially when there’s water around. We’ve seen budgerigars, wood ducks, various pigeons and plenty of other species. The constant bird chatter really adds to the peaceful atmosphere.
Dingoes and wild dogs visit regularly, particularly at night when they come down to drink. We’ve heard there are dog baits in the area so keep your pets close. You might also spot some feral cats and mice around the camp.
Flies are a problem during the day but they disappear once the sun sets. That’s pretty standard for this part of the country.
Kathleen Creek Campsite Oodnadatta Track
Campfires
Finding firewood can be hit or miss. Sometimes there’s plenty of dead wood lying around, other times you’ll struggle to find enough for a small fire. Don’t take more than you need – other people will be coming after you.
On our visit here we found a nice little stack of firewood and with some kindling that had been left by previous users of the Kathleen creek campsite. It was a nice surprise. We often do the same before leaving a camp and it was nice to have had the favour returned.
Things You Should Know
When it’s dry, the ground is solid and good for camping. After rain, expect mud and the potential of getting your vehicle bogged if you’re not careful.
There’s no mobile phone coverage here. You’ll need Starlink if you want a connection.
Why People Keep Coming Back To The Kathleen Creek Campsite
This Kathleen Creek campsite on the Oodnadatta Track captures everything good about outback travel. It’s quiet, clean, and feels genuinely remote. The creek setting with trees along the banks means lots of bird activity.
Most folks rock up planning just the one night but then don’t want to leave. You know how it is – you get settled in, the birds are going off, maybe there’s water trickling in the creek, and suddenly you’re thinking “why did I only book one night here?” That’s what happens at Kathleen Creek.
Of course it’ll only stay this good if people behave responsibly. Clean up your mess, put your fire out properly, don’t leave toilet paper lying around.