Oodnadatta Track Fuel Stops – Complete Guide

Oodnadatta Track Fuel Stops – Complete Guide

Oodnadatta Track Fuel Stops – Complete Guide

Complete list of Oodnadatta Track fuel stops and contacts for your outback adventure along one of Australia’s most iconic tracks.

Fuel planning is absolutely critical for this journey as services are limited and distances between fuel stops can be substantial. We’ve been to and used all of these stops many times. Here’s our complete guide to fuel availability along the track.

Oodnadatta Track Fuel Stops Map Infographic

Oodnadatta Track Fuel Stops Map (Not To Scale)

Distance Summary & Fuel Planning

Route Section Distance Fuel Strategy
Marree → William Creek 196km Fill at Marree, top up at William Creek
William Creek → Oodnadatta 201km Mandatory fuel stop at William Creek
Oodnadatta → Marla 254km Fill at Oodnadatta for final stretch

List Of Oodnadatta Track Fuel Stops Grouped In Order Of Location

1. Marree General Store & Fuel

Marree is the south eastern beginning of the Oodnadatta Track. The Marree Roadhouse, Oasis Cafe/Bistro is open 7 days a week from 7.30am till 6.30pm for all your general needs, take away meals, coffee, cold drinks, ice, groceries, fresh fruit and vegetables, souvenirs, camping equipment and tools. EFTPOS is available. This is one our favourite Oodnadatta Track fuel stops and we ALWAYS call in here for fuel and to stock up. I’ve been wearing a hat I bought here 10 years ago whenever I go outside!

Address: Oodnadatta Track, Marree, South Australia 5733
GPS Coordinates: -29.6497°S, 138.0413°E
Types Of Fuel Available: Diesel, Unleaded Petrol
Phone: (08) 8675 8352 – (08) 8675 8360
Opening Hours: 7 Days 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Fuel Availability Hours: Same as opening hours
Services Available: General store, camping supplies, ice, basic groceries, mechanical services, accommodation bookings
Website: https://marreemotel.com.au

2. William Creek Hotel & Roadhouse

William Creek is just about right on the halfway mark if you’re driving the full length of the track. William Creek is the smallest town in South Australia. This is the only fuel stop between Marree, Coober Pedy and Oodnadatta – making it absolutely essential for track travelers. There is both Unleaded and Diesel at the bowser located outside the William Creek Hotel. Fuel is available 24hrs a day at the self service bowser and there’s always plenty of fuel available all year round.

Address: Oodnadatta Track, William Creek, South Australia, 5710, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -28.9333°S, 136.3500°E
Types Of Fuel Available: Diesel, Unleaded Petrol
Phone: (08) 8670 7880
Opening Hours: Daily 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Fuel Availability Hours: 24-hour fuel available (self serve after hours)
Services Available: Hotel accommodation, restaurant, bar, camping ground, general store, mechanical repairs, scenic flights booking
Website: https://www.williamcreekhotel.com/

3. Pink Roadhouse – Oodnadatta

The iconic Pink Roadhouse is a legendary outback stop famous for its Oodnaburgers. This is your last fuel stop before heading northwest to Marla or south back toward civilization.

Address: Oodnadatta, SA 5734
GPS Coordinates: -27.5553°S, 135.4467°E
Types Of Fuel Available: Unleaded petrol, Diesel
Phone: (08) 8670 7822
Opening Hours: 7 Days 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (extended hours during peak season)
Fuel Availability Hours: Same as opening hours
Services Available: Accommodation (cabins and camping), restaurant (famous Oodnaburgers), general store, mechanical services, camping supplies, ice, tourist information
Website: https://pinkroadhouse.com.au/

4. Marla Travellers Rest

Located on the Stuart Highway Marla serves as the northwestern access point to the Oodnadatta Track. Marla Traveller’s Rest is a sprawling roadhouse, hotel/motel, restaurant, service station, supermarket and more all in one place.

Address: Stuart Highway, Marla, SA 5724
GPS Coordinates: -27.3000°S, 133.0833°E
Types Of Fuel Available: Unleaded Petrol, Premium unleaded, Diesel, LPG
Phone: (08) 8670 7001
Opening Hours: Daily 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Fuel Availability Hours: 24-hour fuel available (card payment after hours)
Services Available: Accommodation (motel units), restaurant, takeaway food, general store, camping ground, ATM, mechanical services
Website: https://www.marla.com.au/

5. Lyndhurst Fuel Options

Lyndhurst is at the end of the Strzelecki Track and you will pass through it coming from south to join the OOdnadatta. While not directly on the Oodnadatta Track it’s a great fuel stop for those approaching from the south or connecting to other outback routes.

5a. Perrys Lyndhurst

Address: The Outback Hwy, Lyndhurst, SA, 5731
GPS Coordinates: -30.28719903045753, 138.34923743900703
Types Of Fuel Available: Diesel
Phone: (08) 8636 2274 – Perrys Head Office
Opening Hours: 24 Hours (self serve card only)
Fuel Availability Hours: 24 Hours
Services Available: Fuel
Website: https://perrys.com.au/

5b. IOR Lyndhurst

Address: 3 Short Street, Lyndhurst SA 5731, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -30.287481786739995, 138.35235109667667
Types Of Fuel Available: Diesel
Phone: 1300 457 467 – IOR Head Office
Opening Hours: 24 Hours (payment using Fuel Charge App https://www.fuelcharge.com.au/)
Fuel Availability Hours: 24 Hours
Services Available: Fuel
Website: https://www.ior.com.au/

6. Coober Pedy Fuel Options

Coober Pedy famous for its opal mines and underground houses has multiple fuel options.

6a. Shell Coober Pedy

Address: 454 Hutchison St, Coober Pedy SA 5723
GPS Coordinates: -29.0147°S, 134.7544°E
Types Of Fuel Available: Unleaded petrol, Premium unleaded, Diesel
Phone: (08) 8672 5350
Opening Hours: 7 Days 24 Hours
Fuel Availability Hours: 7 Days 24 Hours
Services Available: Convenience store, food options, ATM
Website: https://find.shell.com/au/fuel/10111493-shell-coober-pedy-roadhouse/en_AUhttps://find.shell.com/au/fuel/10111493-shell-coober-pedy-roadhouse/en_AU

6b. Perrys Coober Pedy

Address: Flat Hill Rd, Coober Pedy SA 5723
GPS Coordinates:
Types Of Fuel Available:
Phone: (08) 8636 2274 – Perrys Head Office
Opening Hours: 24 Hours (self serve card only)
Fuel Availability Hours: Same as opening hours
Services Available: Fuel
Website: https://perrys.com.au/

7. Mount Dare Hotel

Mount Dare is north of Oodnadatta near the border with the Northern Territory. This remote location is a gateway for those continuing north to Alice Springs and for exploring the western MacDonnell Ranges.

Address: Mount Dare, SA 5734
GPS Coordinates: -26.6833°S, 135.1833°E
Types Of Fuel Available: Unleaded Petrol, Diesel
Phone: (08) 8670 7835
Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (seasonal variations)
Fuel Availability Hours: Same as opening hours
Services Available: Hotel accommodation, restaurant, bar, camping ground, general store, mechanical services
Website: https://www.mtdare.com.au/

8. Roxby Downs

Borefield Road (Borefield Track) is a popular entry point to the Oodnadatta Track. Borefield Road starts in Roxby Downs and meets the Oodnadatta Track 68km west of Marree, or 136km east of William Creek. Roxby Downs and Olympic Dam just north of Roxby are the last available fuel before either william Creek or Marree when travelling Borefield Road.

8a. BP Roxby Downs

Address: 26 Olympic Way, Roxby Downs SA 5725
GPS Coordinates: -30.553387473299107, 136.89372145435607
Types Of Fuel Available: Diesel, Unleaded Petrol, Premium Unleaded Petrol
Phone: (08) 8419 4683
Opening Hours: 7 Days 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Fuel Availability Hours: Same as opening hours
Services Available: Convenience Store, Food, Toilets
Website: https://map.bp.com/en-AU/AU/gas-station/roxby-downs/ampm-roxby-downs/5500

8b. Lavricks Roadhouse

Address: Olympic Way North, Olympic Dam
GPS Coordinates: -30.48424453960465, 136.89301790788122
Types Of Fuel Available: Diesel, Unleaded Petrol, Premium Unleaded Petrol, LPG
Phone: (08) 8671 0554
Opening Hours: 7 Days 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Fuel Availability Hours: Same as opening hours
Services Available: Convenience Store, Food, Roadhouse, Toilets
Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/Lavricks-Roadhouse-Olympic-Dam-61556682005282/

Main Track Fuel Stops (South to North)

Location & Facility Address & GPS Distance From Previous
MARREE
Marree Roadhouse & Oasis Cafe
Railway Terrace, Marree SA 5733
29°39’01″S, 138°02’29″E
Starting Point
WILLIAM CREEK
William Creek Hotel
William Creek SA 5710
28°56’00″S, 136°21’00″E
215km from Marree
OODNADATTA
Pink Roadhouse
Main Street, Oodnadatta SA 5734
27°33’19″S, 135°26’48″E
207km from William Creek
MARLA
Marla Traveller’s Rest
Stuart Highway, Marla SA 5724
27°18’00″S, 133°13’00″E
220km from Oodnadatta

Last Updated: August 2025 – Information subject to change. Always verify current details before travel.

The Police Paddocks Campsite: Murray River Free Camp

The Police Paddocks Campsite: Murray River Free Camp

The Police Paddocks Campsite: Murray River Free Camp

Last updated: August 2025 | Visited: Multiple times over 15 years of Murray River camping

After decades of exploring Australia’s free camping network, The Police Paddocks Campsite along Murphys Creek near Rutherglen remains one of our most recommended stops in Victoria’s northeast. This sprawling riverside site consistently delivers what many promise but fail to provide – genuine space.

Police Paddocks Free Camp

Police Paddocks Free Camp

Getting There

The 3.5km gravel access road from the main highway handles everything from our mates massive 24-foot rig down to small campervans. Yes there are potholes – some deep, but they’re well spaced and easily navigated at reasonable speeds.

We’ve been in on this access track for years and while it’s never perfect, it’s remained consistently passable. The local council seems to do some work on it it annually, usually before the busy Easter period.

Road Condition Checklist:

  • Dry conditions: Suitable for all vehicles including 2WD with caravans
  • After rain: Stick to the middle of the track, edges become boggy
  • Potholes: There are plenty of potholes on the road in but if you go nice and slow you’ll be ok
  • Clearance: Plenty of clearance

Pro tip from experience: After heavy rain, stick to the middle of the road. The edges can become boggy particularly the final 500 metres approaching the camping area.

Site Layout At The Police Paddocks Campsite

Unlike many “spacious” free camps that turn out to be single file parking, The Police Paddocks Campsite sprawls across several hectares. During our most recent visit in June 2025 we counted spaces for easily 40+ sites without anyone feeling crowded.

Camping Zone Options:

  • River Frontage: 800m of premium spots under river red gums – shaded, scenic, but watch for falling branches
  • Open Grassland: 200m back from water – sunny, spacious, better for solar panels and satellite dishes
  • Creek-side: Smaller spots along Murphys Creek – quieter, good for fishing access
  • Boundary Area: Less popular but private spots near the back fence

Important safety note: Those beautiful red gums regularly drop substantial branches. I’ve witnessed loads of close calls over the years. Always inspect overhead before settling in, particularly after windy weather.

Police Paddocks Free Campsite

Police Paddocks Free Campsite

Why This Site Works: Community Self-Management

What sets The Police Paddocks Campsite apart is the informal stewardship by long-term visitors. During our stays, we’ve met “regulars” who’ve been coming for 15+ years – retired couples who spend weeks here and take genuine pride in maintaining the area.

Some of the long termers have basically adopted the place. They’ll mow tracks through the grass, pick up rubbish that thoughtless people leave behind, and drag fallen branches off the camping areas. Old-fashioned camping etiquette – the kind that’s disappearing elsewhere but somehow survives here.

Facilities Reality Check: Bring Everything

Zero facilities means exactly that. No toilets, no water, no bins. Full self-containment isn’t optional – it’s essential. We’ve seen unprepared campers leave within hours when they realise there’s nowhere to dump grey water or access fresh supplies.

Rutherglen and Corowa both have decent shops for anything you forgot to pack. We’ve done plenty of last-minute dashes to the Rutherglen IGA before they close at 8 – usually for milk or bread we somehow managed to run out of.

Connectivity & Communications At The Police Paddocks Campsite

Mobile coverage is patchy at best. Telstra provides occasional 3G, sometimes improving to 4G during overnight hours when network traffic drops. You can forget Optus and Vodafone.

Local Knowledge: Making The Most of Your Stay

Service/Facility Rutherglen (15min) Corowa (20min) At Campsite
Supermarket IGA (8pm close) Woolworths None
Fuel Multiple options BP, Shell None
Mechanical Auto repairs available Full workshop None
Medical GP clinic Hospital None
WiFi Library (free) McDonald’s, Library None
Dump Point Caravan park ($5) Visitors centre (free) None

Essential Items to Bring:

  • Firewood (cleaned out regularly – buy bundles in Rutherglen $8)
  • All water (minimum 100L for extended stays)
  • Complete grey/black water storage
  • Insect repellent and fly nets (flies can be persistent)

Best fishing: Early morning along the deeper pools near the bend, 300 metres downstream from the main camping area. Murray cod and redfin are most active just after sunrise.

Wind warning: When the northerlies blow the open areas can get uncomfortable. Those big red gums along the river are your friend – they block most of the wind and keep things pleasant even on blustery days.

Police Paddocks Near Rutherglen

Police Paddocks Near Rutherglen

Why The Police Paddocks Campsite Is So Popular

In an era of increasingly regulated camping places like this survive through mutual respect and community responsibility. It’s not perfect. As with everywhere we go we encounter the occasional inconsiderate camper or find rubbish left behind or fires not put out properly. For campers wanting close proximity to Rutherglen’s renowned wineries, The Police Paddocks Campsite is a great place.

Have you stayed at The Police Paddocks? Share your experiences and help maintain the community knowledge that keeps places like this accessible for everyone. – Add your comments below

Comments – Share Your Experiences!

Small Hills Near Angle Pole Campsite – Oodnadatta Track

Small Hills Near Angle Pole Campsite – Oodnadatta Track

Small Hills Near Angle Pole Campsite – Oodnadatta Track

Small Hills Near Angle Pole Campsite offers free camping near Oodnadatta. Perfect for self-contained campers wanting peace, views and quiet. Most people driving the Oodnadatta Track either push through to Marla or stop in town at the Pink Roadhouse. But there’s another option that many campers miss – a small free camping area tucked behind some weathered hills just north of Oodnadatta.

Small Hills Near Angle Pole Campsite Location Map

Small Hills Near Angle Pole Campsite Location And Info At A Glance

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping / Bush Camping
Location: Small hills near angle pole, South Australia
GPS: -27.490360°, 135.418222°
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Marree: 413km
Distance From Oodnadatta: 7km
Distance From Marla: 247km

Angle Pole Memorial Sign

Angle Pole Memorial Sign Courtesy Of The Pink Roadhouse

Finding Small Hills Near Angle Pole Campsite

You’ll see vehicle tracks heading towards some low rocky hills. Sometimes someone will have left a branch marking the turn-off, sometimes not. The drive in takes a few minutes following wheel ruts for around 700 metres.

Watch out for one steep dip that can catch low vehicles off guard. Most standard caravans handle it fine, but check your clearance first. Don’t attempt entry after heavy rain – the clay soil turns into the caravan equivalent of a venus flytrap and you could be there for days.

The Camping Area

You’ll find yourself in a sheltered spot between small hills and a dry creek. The ground is mostly gravel and gibber stones, which makes for good drainage. There’s room for three or four rigs without crowding, plus space to turn around even with a big setup.

Old fire pits dot the area from previous campers. The real draw is scrambling up one of the nearby hills for the view. Takes maybe five minutes to reach the top and you can see for kilometers in every direction. Oodnadatta looks tiny from up there.

What To Bring

Everything. Water, food, fuel, toilet paper – the works. No bins either, so pack out your rubbish. The nearest supplies are back in Oodnadatta and the Pink Roadhouse closes early.

Phone signal is patchy at best. Climb a hill and you might get one bar of Telstra coverage if you’re lucky. Forget about streaming anything or video calls.

The Downsides

  • Flies swarm during the day in warmer weather. Bring fly nets or you’ll go mad. When evening comes the flies disappear.
  • Wind can be strong funneling between the hills. Make sure your awning is properly pegged down.

Why Choose Small Hills Near Angle Pole Campsite Over Town?

  • Simple – peace and quiet. Oodnadatta camping can get very busy at times. The only sounds here is the wind and maybe a distant dingo.
  • Plus it costs nothing. Hard to argue with free when you’re on a tight travel budget.

Railway History

Bits of the old Ghan line are scattered around if you look. Sections of rail and wooden sleepers slowly weathering away. Don’t move anything – it’s part of the area’s character.

The railway used to run right through here before they moved it east. These remnants are all that’s left of that era.

Who Should Stay At The Small Hills Near Angle Pole Campsite

Experienced campers who don’t need facilities will love it. First-timers or those wanting hot showers and flushing toilets should stay in town.

If constant flies annoy you, or if dust bothers you, or if you need reliable phone coverage – this isn’t your spot. But if you want genuine outback solitude with great views it’s hard to beat.

Small Hills Near Angle Pole Campsite On Google Earth

Small Hills Near Angle Pole Campsite On Google Earth

Keep It Clean

This place works because people respect it. Take your rubbish with you.

Bottom Line

It’s basic bush camping at its finest. No frills, no facilities, just you and the outback. The hills provide shelter from wind, the views are spectacular.

Most commercial campgrounds along the Track charge upwards of $25 per night. This costs nothing and offers something money can’t buy – complete silence and a genuine connection to one of Australia’s most remote regions.

List Of All Birdsville Track Campsites

List Of All Birdsville Track Campsites

List Of All Birdsville Track Campsites

Complete Birdsville Track camping guide – 23 campsites from Birdsville QLD to Marree SA with GPS coords, costs & facilities. Free bush camps to caravan parks for your outback trip.

Are you driving the Birdsville Track on your way to the Birdsville Races or the Big Red Bash? Maybe you’re on way to travel across the Simpson Desert? You’ll need somewhere to camp along the way. We’ve put together this list of all Birdsville Track campsites on the 620km stretch between Birdsville and Marree. Some are free bush camps. Others are caravan parks with hot showers and powered sites.

We’ve included GPS coordinates, what it’ll cost you and what facilities you can expect. This Birdsville Track camping guide will help you plan where to pull up for the night with the confidence that come from knowing what to expect.

Map Of All Birdsville Track Campsites

List Of Camp Sites On The Birdsville Track

1. Birdsville Common

This Free Campground offers drinking water. Pets are allowed. It is accessible to RV’s and caravans.

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping
Location: Eyre Developmental Rd, Birdsville, Queensland
GPS: -25.8998140, 139.3612240
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 0km
Distance From Marree: 519km

2. Alternate “Common” For Wet Weather

Just past the wash bay on the other side of the road. This area is an alternative to the common during busy periods and is on higher ground.

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping
Location: Eyre Developmental Rd, Birdsville, Queensland
GPS: -25.8951870, 139.3527720
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 0km
Distance From Marree: 519km

Up On Big Red Birdsville Watching The Sunset

Up On Big Red Birdsville Watching The Sunset

3. Birdsville Free Camping

This is a Free Campground. Pets are allowed. it is accessible to RV’s and caravans.

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping
Location: Eyre Developmental Rd, Birdsville, Queensland
GPS: -25.9014100, 139.3607390
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 0km
Distance From Marree: 519km

4. Karrawa Camping

Stunning riverside location along the Diamantina River right in central Birdsville. Self-sufficiency required for camping. Excellent bird watching opportunities with diverse species. Easy stroll to local pub and bakery. Run by Traditional Owners from the area (same people behind the local coffee shop). Perfect chance to connect with locals and discover the rich cultural heritage and ancient history of Birdsville and the surrounding region.

Cost: $25 Per Night
Type: Paid Campground
Location: Access via Hardware store on Waddi DriveBirdsville, Queensland
GPS: -25.9036380, 139.3520210
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 1km
Distance From Marree: 520km

5. Diamantina Camp Beside River

This Free Campground offers drinking water. Pets are allowed. It is accessible to RV’s and caravans. Camping in tents is allowed.

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping
Location: Eyre Developmental Rd, Birdsville, Queensland
GPS: -25.9072480, 139.3731100
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 3km
Distance From Marree: 520km

6. Birdsville Diamantina River Wind Mill

This Free Campground offers drinking water. Pets are allowed. It is accessible to RV’s, caravans and big rigs. Camping in tents in is allowed. This is one of only two caravan parks on this list of Birdsville Track campsites.

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping
Location: Eyre Developmental Rd, Birdsville, Queensland
GPS: -25.9050750, 139.3744580
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 2km
Distance From Marree: 516km

7. Birdsville Tourist Park

The Birdsville Caravan Park has 50 sites with power. Even the biggest vehicles can be accommodated, including large motorhomes, tour buses and fifth-wheel trailers. Staff are on hand to assist with parking if needed.

Unpowered camping extends across 30 acres of grounds. Drive-through options suit larger outfits and caravans, while dedicated areas cater for campervans and tent camping. Quality facilities and amenities ensure comfortable stays for all guests. Site selection is typically flexible, though availability becomes limited during major events like the famous Birdsville Races.

Cost: Powered $35 Per Night / $65 Per Night July Through September
Type: Caravan Park
Location: Florence St, Birdsville, Queensland
GPS: -25.8993360, 139.3542650
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 0km
Distance From Marree: 519km

Birdsville Track Camping At Birdsville Tourist Park Aka The Birdsville Caravan Park

Birdsville Track Campsites At Birdsville Tourist Park Aka The Birdsville Caravan Park

8. Pre Border Camp (Cool Name!)

A nice quiet sheltered spot before the border. Unofficial camp. Leave no trace.

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping
Location: Birdsville Track, Pandie Pandie, South Australia
GPS: -26.0277170, 139.3873140
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 14km
Distance From Marree: 502km

9. Geak Hill

This is a free campground. Pets are allowed. It is accessible to RV’s, caravans and big rigs. Camping in tents is allowed.

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping
Location: Birdsville Track
GPS: -26.5942920, 139.6313580
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 85km
Distance From Marree: 433km

10. Dune Camp North

This is a free campground. Pets are allowed. It is accessible to RV’s, caravans and big rigs. Camping in tents is allowed.

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping
Location: Birdsville Track
GPS: -26.9192310, 139.4397560
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 133km
Distance From Marree: 386km

11. Lake Surprise Creek

This is a free campground. Pets are allowed. It is accessible to RV’s, caravans and big rigs. Camping in tents is allowed.

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping
Location: Birdsville Track
GPS: -26.9389480, 139.4171220
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 136km
Distance From Marree: 383km

12. Tippipila Creek Bush Camp

This is a free campground. Pets are allowed. It is accessible to RV’s, caravans and big rigs. Camping in tents is allowed.

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping
Location: Birdsville Track, South Australia
GPS: -26.9953750, 139.0165400
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 182km
Distance From Marree: 337km

13. Bloods Creek

This is a free campground. Pets are allowed. It is accessible to RV’s, caravans and big rigs. Camping in tents is allowed.

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping
Location: Birdsville Track, Clifton Hills Station, South Australia
GPS: -27.1135050, 138.8223610
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 206km
Distance From Marree: 313km

14. Camp Behind Sand Dune

This is a free campground. Pets are allowed. It is accessible to RV’s, caravans and big rigs. Camping in tents is allowed.

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping
Location: Birdsville Track, Clifton Hills Station, South Australia
GPS: -27.2496480, 138.7577430
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 223km
Distance From Marree: 296km

15. Mt Gason Creek

This is a free campground. Pets are allowed. It is accessible to RV’s, caravans and big rigs. Camping in tents is allowed.

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping
Location: Birdsville Track, Clifton Hills Station SA
GPS: -27.2618860, 138.7567460
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 224km
Distance From Marree: 295km

16. Mungerannie Hotel & Camp Area

This paid campground offers toilets and showers. It is dog friendly. It is accessible to motorbikes, RVs, camper trailers, caravans and big rigs. Camping in tents is allowed.

This is my favourite on this list of Birdsville Track campsites. I loved camping here back in 2019 with a big group of mates – a wild old time was had in the pub when Phil owned it.

Cost: $15 Per Person Per Night
Type: Paid Campground
Location: Birdsville Track, South Australia
GPS: -28.0194160, 138.6637570
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 315km
Distance From Marree: 205km

Mungerannie Hotel & Camp Area

Mungerannie Hotel & Camp Area

17. Cooper Creek Ferry

This is a free campground. Pets are allowed. It is accessible to RV’s, caravans and big rigs. Camping in tents is allowed. Slow 14km in and out on the same track to the ferry on Cooper Creek. Interesting site to see the ferry raised on the bank.

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping
Location: Etadunna, South Australia 5733
GPS: -28.5800590, 138.8144160
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 388km
Distance From Marree: 160km

18. Cooper Creek Camp

This Donation Applies Campground has good flushing toilets and a tap for dish washing water. Pets are allowed. It is accessible to RV’s and caravans. It’s a great large campsite with plenty of trees. It’s worth donating to ensure the site continues to be available.

Cost: Donation
Type: Donation Campsite
Location: Birdsville Track, Etadunna, South Australia
GPS: -28.6233300, 138.7107380
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 383km
Distance From Marree: 136km

Clayton Station Birdsville Track Camping

Clayton Station Birdsville Track Camping

19. Clayton Wetlands Campground

Clayton Station operates as a recognised pastoral enterprise located at the southern terminus of the renowned Birdsville Track in remote South Australia. The station maintains a public camping area that serves as a welcome refuge for travellers journeying along the challenging Birdsville Track. Camping options are unpowered and accommodate all camping styles. Available amenities include shower facilities, flush toilets and natural hot artesian pools.

  • Chainsaws prohibited – visitors must supply their own firewood to protect vegetation
  • Firearms banned
  • All waste must be removed by visitors
  • Camping restricted to designated zones only
  • Consideration for fellow campers required – no excessive noise or circle work.
  • Natural hot artesian bathing available
  • Dogs welcome

Cost: $20 Per Night
Type: Paid Campground
Location: Clayton Station, Birdsville Track, South Australia
GPS: -29.2742720, 138.3746420
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 465km
Distance From Marree: 54km

20. Lake Harry Ruins

This is a free campground. Pets are allowed. It is accessible to RV’s, caravans and big rigs. Camping in tents is allowed. The ruins of Lake Harry Station is what remains of an abandoned date palm plantation on the southern end of Lake Harry.
Read Our Detailed Blog Post

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping
Location: Birdsville Track, Muloorina SA 5733, South Australia
GPS: -29.4342650, 138.2467820
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 488km
Distance From Marree: 31km

21. Unofficial Campsite

On both sides of the track just out of Marree. You have to be self contained. Leave no rubbish including toilet paper. Take it all with you back to bin in town or burn it.

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping
Location: Birdsville Track Marree, South Australia
GPS: -29.6300560, 138.0903870
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Birdsville: 514km
Distance From Marree: 5km

22. Marree Hotel Campground

Camping behind the Marree Hotel. Very friendly location. Great meals. Pet friendly.
Read Our Detailed Blog Post

Cost: Free if you have a meal in the pub.
Type: Pub Camping
Location: Marree, South Australia
GPS: -29.649041°, 138.064652°
Distance From Birdsville: 518km
Distance From Marree: 0km

23. Marree Oasis Caravan Park & Cabins

Powered and unpowered sites. Showers and toilets. Laundry facilities.
Read Our Detailed Blog Post

Cost: Powered $45. Unpowered $35.
Type: Caravan Park
Location: Marree, South Australia
GPS: -29.646530°, 138.061902°
Distance From Birdsville: 518km
Distance From Marree: 0km

Marree Caravan Park

Marree Caravan Park

Conclusion To This List Of Birdsville Track Campsites

There’s some awesome camping spots along the Track – from the busy Birdsville Common to the hot springs at Clayton Station. Twenty-three different places to choose from spread across 620km.
Pack heaps of water and fuel. Tell someone where you’re headed and when you reckon you’ll get there. And don’t be a grubby goose – take out your rubbish and leave these spots better than you found them. Birdsville Track camping has got something for everyone. Whether you’re after a free camp all to yourself or somewhere with all the mod cons this is the list of Birdsville Track camping for you.

William Creek Hotel Accommodation & Campground

William Creek Hotel Accommodation & Campground

William Creek Hotel Accommodation & Campground

Anyone who’s driven the Oodnadatta Track knows the William Creek Hotel Accommodation & Campground. It’s that much needed stop where you can get a hot shower and a cold beer. Right across from the famous William Creek Hotel this campground has saved plenty of travellers from sleeping rough in the middle of nowhere.

William Creek Hotel Accommodation & Campground Location And Info At A Glance

Cost: About $45 per night powered and $35 per night unpowered. Varies depending upon season.
Type: Caravan Park / Paid Campground
Location: -28.909119°, 136.338610°
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Marree: 204km
Distance From Oodnadatta: 202km
Distance From Marla: 456km

William Creek Campground On Google Earth

William Creek Campground On Google Earth

What You Get at William Creek Hotel Campground

The campground’s got powered and unpowered sites scattered across a decent-sized area. Big rigs fit fine. The amenities block is where this place really shines. Hot showers that actually work, toilets that flush and washing machines that don’t eat your coins.

Powered sites go for about $40-45 a night and come with water but here’s the catch – they fill up by midday during busy periods. Hotel staff aren’t joking when they tell you to get there early. The unpowered area out back has heaps more room and costs around $30 which is good value for what you get and where you are.

Most people camp in the unpowered section behind the main area. More space, less crowded and you’re not crammed in.

Inside The Dining Room At William Creek Hotel Pay for Your William Creek Hotel Campground Accommodation In Here

Inside The Dining Room At William Creek Hotel Pay for Your William Creek Hotel Campground Accommodation In Here

William Creek Hotel Accommodation Beyond Camping

If you’re sick of swags and camp chairs the William Creek Hotel accommodation includes proper rooms and cabins. There’s “The Camel House” cottage that sleeps up to six people, plus regular hotel rooms with different bathroom arrangements.

This place has been operating since 1887, which tells you something. They’ve figured out what works in the middle of nowhere. The rooms aren’t fancy, but after days on corrugated roads, you won’t care about thread counts.

Services That Actually Matter

  • Fuel’s available on site although it’s not at city prices. diesel goes about $3 a litre. It beats running out of fuel in the scrub.
  • Staff know their stuff about breakdowns. Multiple people mention getting help with tyre repairs and even emergency parts deliveries. When your trip depends on keeping your vehicle running, that kind of backup matters.
  • The free desalinated water fill-up is brilliant. Top up your tanks before heading back onto the track.

Leaving William Creek And Heading Towards Oodnadatta In 2024

Leaving William Creek And Heading Towards Oodnadatta In 2024

Food And Drink At William Creek Hotel

The pub does decent feeds, though you’ll pay tourist prices. Chicken schnitzel seems popular and portions are generous enough that people take leftovers back to camp. The key is booking ahead – this place gets packed, especially when tour groups roll through.

Staff are very helpful. Multiple people mention getting good local advice and assistance with vehicle problems.

Lake Eyre Flights And Access

Wright’s Air runs scenic flights from the adjacent airstrip. Currently as of 2025 starting at around $390 per person it’s spectacular. The timing worked out perfectly for recent visitors who have seen the lake full. We’ve been to William Creek loads of times but never done the flight as Amanda is not good with heights. We did a helicopter flight at Kings Canyon on a recent trip so I’m hopeful of getting her on a plane over Lake Eyre next time we’re there.

Many people use William Creek Hotel Campground as base camp for the rough drive out to Halligan Bay. Makes sense – leave your caravan here and take just the vehicle for the challenging 60km track to Lake Eyre’s edge.

William Creek Hotel Accommodation Campground Entrance

William Creek Hotel Accommodation Campground Entrance

What You Need to Know About William Creek Hotel Campground

  • Register at the hotel first, pay upfront, then find your spot. The system works well enough. Unpowered sites behind the main area offer better value and more space, especially important when the wind picks up and everything gets dusty.
  • Campfires are allowed, which is good because evenings can get cold. The camping area has some wind protection, though you’re still in open country where weather happens fast.
  • Dogs are welcome, both in camp and surprisingly in the hotel dining room. That’s unusual for outback pubs and makes this place more appealing for people travelling with pets.

William Creek Hotel Driving School Dave Could do With A Lesson!

William Creek Hotel Driving School Dave Could do With A Lesson!

Why William Creek Hotel Campground Works So Well

After hours of corrugated roads and dust, William Creek Hotel Campground delivers what you actually need – clean facilities, reliable services and genuine outback character. Whether you’re just passing through or using it as base for Lake Eyre exploration, it does the job.

The William Creek Hotel accommodation options work for people who want a break from camping without losing the authentic outback feel. After 130-plus years in business, they’ve earned their reputation as an essential Oodnadatta Track stop.

This isn’t about luxury – it’s about reliable services in unreliable country. Sometimes that’s exactly what matters most.

William Creek Hotel Some New Stubby Holders

William Creek Hotel Some New Stubby Holders