Campsite Near Irrapatana Sand Hills – Oodnadatta Track
Travelling the Oodnadatta Track and want a proper bush camping experience? The overnight campsite near Irrapatana Sand Hills is worth considering. Sits just behind those red dunes with big views, some natural wind protection and proper outback quiet.
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Overnight Campsite Near Irrapatana Sand Hills Location And Info At A Glance
Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping / Bush Camping
Location: -29.085839°, 136.529259°
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Marree: 177km
Distance From Oodnadatta: 230km
Distance From Marla: 484km

Campsite Near Irrapatana Sand Hills Oodnadatta Track On Google Earth
Getting There
Turn off onto a dirt track that heads away from the main road, winds around behind the sand hills toward an old station. When heading towards Oodnadatta it’s on the left. Easy enough to get to when it’s dry and the camping area is mostly flat. Don’t even think about it if it’s been raining or looks like rain – turns into a bog.
What You’ll Find At The Overnight Campsite Near The Irrapatana Sand Hills
Plenty of room here, reasonably level, space for several caravans without being on top of each other. The sand dunes block some wind and make it feel pretty remote. There’s a fenced dam nearby that the local cattle use so make sure not to block access to it. Plenty of old fence posts and bits of wood lying around for a fire though you need to follow fire restrictions. Dogs are fine but keep an eye on them – cattle might be around and there’s no fencing to keep them separate. What remains of the old Irrapatana Siding on the Ghan Railway is not far away.
No Facilities
This is proper bush camping – no toilets, no water, no bins. You bring everything in, you take everything out. Need to be completely self-sufficient. If you want a basic stop along the track this works. Don’t expect anything else.
What To Like At The Overnight Campsite Near The Irrapatana Sand Hills
People like it for the space and quiet. Sandhills give it a nice backdrop and some shelter. Usually have the place to yourself. Good spot for caravans, camper trailers or just rolling out a swag. Decent place to break up the drive, get some rest or take photos of the red dunes. Sometimes get wildflowers through the area.

Irrapatana Sand Hills Turnoff On Google Earth
Know Before You Go
- Solid flat ground when dry, muddy mess when wet
- No facilities – no water, no shade, no toilets – it’s all up to you
- Usually wood around for fires but respect fire bans
- Zero little light pollution so good for looking at the stars
Bottom Line
The overnight campsite Near The Irrapatana Sand Hills is classic Oodnadatta Track camping – quiet, roomy, no frills. If you’re happy being self-sufficient and cleaning up after yourself it’s a nice place to spend the night. Red dunes, big skies, lots of peace and quiet. Look after it and it’ll be there for the next people coming through.