Mound Springs On The Oodnadatta Track

Amanda and I have visited the mound springs several times over the years. We visited The Bubbler and Blanche Cup in 2016, 2019 and 2022. Then in 2024 we stopped again at the Strangways Springs area and saw the mound springs there while travelling the Oodnadatta Track.

Each visit looked a little different. Water levels changed, tracks varied, and the wetlands shifted with the seasons. Even so, the springs always stood out as one of the most important natural sites along the track.

The mound springs along the Oodnadatta Track are one of the more interesting stops in outback South Australia. Most people come for the old Ghan history and remote scenery. However, the mound springs often end up being a highlight of the trip.

My Photo Of The Bubbler Mound Spring Taken In 2022

Table Of Contents

What Are Mound Springs?

Mound springs are natural springs fed by the Great Artesian Basin. Water travels underground for thousands of years before reaching the surface through cracks in the earth.

Over long periods minerals build up around the water source. As a result, small hills or “mounds” form around the spring outlets.

These springs were very important to Aboriginal people, early explorers, railway workers and cattle stations. In such a dry part of Australia, permanent water changed everything.

Today, many mound springs remain protected because they support rare plants and animals found nowhere else.

Friends Of Mound Springs Information

Amanda At The Top Of The Bubbler Boardwalk

Mound Springs On The Oodnadatta Track

The best known mound springs on the Oodnadatta Track are:

Mound Spring	Location	What To Expect	Access
The Bubbler	Wabma Kadarbu Conservation Park	Bubbling artesian water and wetland area	Easy walk from car park
Blanche Cup	Near The Bubbler	Large mound spring with boardwalk access	Easy walk
Strangways Springs	Near Strangways ruins	Smaller springs with railway history nearby	Dirt track and short walks

The Bubbler And Blanche Cup

The Bubbler and Blanche Cup are the easiest mound springs to visit on the Oodnadatta Track. They sit inside Wabma Kadarbu Mound Springs Conservation Park between Marree and William Creek.

The turn off is about 10km east of Coward Springs and roughly 130km north west of Marree. The access road is suitable for most vehicles in dry conditions however it can be very corrugated and rough. When we visited the first time we towed the van in all the way. The second two visits we unhooked the van and went in with just the car. When you turn in to the access road just to the left is a big open area you can unhitch and leave your caravan.

Official Mound Springs Visitor Information

Blanche Cup Noticeboard In Wabma Kadarbu Mound Springs Conservation Park

We find these springs worth visiting most times we travelled the track. Even after several trips, the contrast between dry desert country and bright green wetlands still stood out.

The Bubbler is known for the bubbling action caused by gases rising through the artesian water. At times the bubbling is strong. During other visits it was more subtle. Water flow can vary between years depending on pressure changes in the basin.

Blanche Cup looks very different. It has a larger mound with a more open pool structure. The boardwalk gives a good view without damaging the fragile ground around the spring.

Importantly, visitors should stay on the marked tracks and boardwalks. The ground near the springs is soft and easily damaged. Swimming is not allowed.

Wabma Kadarbu Conservation Park Information

Why The Springs Matter

The mound springs are far more than a roadside stop.

For thousands of years, Aboriginal groups relied on these permanent water sources. The springs also played a major role during European exploration and the construction of the old Ghan railway.

Without reliable water, many sections of inland Australia could not support travel or settlement.

The springs also support rare wildlife. Some tiny snails and aquatic species only exist in single spring systems. That makes these sites environmentally important as well as historically important.

More About The Environmental Importance Of Mound Springs

Compared with many outback attractions, the mound springs are easy to access and do not require long walks. That makes them popular with caravanners, camper trailer travellers and families.

Amanda And I In Front Of The Bubbler Mound Spring

Strangways Springs

Strangways Springs gives a different experience compared with The Bubbler and Blanche Cup.

We visited the Strangways area in 2024 while travelling between William Creek and Oodnadatta. The spring area itself is quieter and less developed. However, the nearby ruins and telegraph history add another layer to the stop.

Instead of boardwalks and viewing platforms, Strangways feels more remote and untouched.

The old stone ruins nearby are part of the former Overland Telegraph station and railway history. Because of that, many travellers combine the springs visit with a walk through the historic site.

Track conditions into Strangways can vary. After rain, sections may become rough or muddy. Therefore, checking road conditions before leaving is always a good idea.

Strangway Springs Mound Springs On The Oodnadatta Track In 2024

Best Time To Visit The Mound Springs On The Oodnadatta Track

The cooler months from May to September are usually the best time to travel the Oodnadatta Track.

Daytime temperatures are more comfortable and road conditions are often better after summer.

Even so, weather still affects the track. Heavy rain can close roads quickly. Corrugations also change throughout the season.

Before travelling, check current conditions through the official South Australian Outback Roads Report and the South Australian National Parks website.

South Australian Outback Roads Report

South Australian National Parks Information

As of May 2026, The Bubbler and Blanche Cup remain accessible through the Wabma Kadarbu conservation area. Visitors should still check local reports before travel due to changing outback conditions.

In We Towed The Van Out To The Mound Springs On The Oodnadatta Track

Camping Near The Mound Springs On The Oodnadatta Track

Most travellers stay nearby at Coward Springs.

Coward Springs is one of the better known campgrounds on the Oodnadatta Track. It offers toilets, hot showers and the well known artesian spa.

From there, the mound springs are only a short drive away.

William Creek and Marree also work well as overnight stops depending on your direction of travel.

Things We Noticed Across Multiple Visits

After visiting across several years, a few things stood out to us:

Water movement at The Bubbler changed between visits
Wetland growth varied each year
Visitor numbers increased noticeably after 2020
Boardwalks and signage improved over time
Track conditions changed more than the springs themselves

Those changes are part of what makes repeat visits worthwhile.

The springs may seem simple at first. However, once you understand their history and importance, they become one of the more memorable stops along the track.

Information Board At Wabma Kadarbu Mound Springs Conservation Park

Final Thoughts

The mound springs are one of the most worthwhile stops on the Oodnadatta Track. They combine history, geology and outback scenery in one easy visit.

The Bubbler and Blanche Cup are the best known sites and suit almost every traveller. Meanwhile, Strangways Springs gives a quieter and more historic feel.

For us, the springs have been worth stopping at on every trip across the track. They break up the drive, add context to the region, and show just how important water is in the South Australian outback.

The Bubbler Mound Spring On The Oodnadatta Track

FAQs About The Mound Springs On The Oodnadatta Track

What are mound springs on the Oodnadatta Track?

Mound springs are natural springs fed by underground water from the Great Artesian Basin. Minerals build up over time around the water outlet and form raised mounds. They are an important part of South Australia’s outback history and environment.

Where are the main mound springs located on the Oodnadatta Track?

The best known mound springs are The Bubbler and Blanche Cup inside Wabma Kadarbu Conservation Park between Marree and William Creek. Strangways Springs is further north near the Strangways ruins.

Can you swim in the mound springs?

No, swimming is not allowed at The Bubbler or Blanche Cup. The springs are protected environmental sites and visitors must stay on the marked walking tracks and boardwalks.

Are the mound springs easy to access with a caravan?

Yes, The Bubbler and Blanche Cup are easy to access in dry conditions. Most caravanners and camper trailer travellers can reach the parking area without problems when the Oodnadatta Track is open. The track can be quite corrugated and rough. You can unhitch and park your van in an area to the left of the road in when you first turn in off the Oodnadatta Track.

What is the best time of year to visit the mound springs?

The cooler months from May to September are usually the best time to visit. Temperatures are lower and road conditions are often more comfortable for outback travel.

How far are The Bubbler and Blanche Cup from Marree?

The mound springs are about 130km north west of Marree and around 10km east of Coward Springs.

Why are mound springs important?

Mound springs provided permanent water in dry outback areas for thousands of years. Aboriginal groups, early explorers, railway workers and cattle stations all relied on them.

What makes The Bubbler different from Blanche Cup?

The Bubbler is known for its bubbling artesian water caused by underground gases. Blanche Cup has a larger open spring area and a raised mound with boardwalk access.

Is Strangways Springs worth visiting?

Yes, Strangways Springs is worth visiting for travellers interested in history and quieter stops. The nearby ruins and old telegraph station add extra interest to the area.

Where can you camp near the mound springs?

Coward Springs is the most popular campground near the mound springs. It offers camping, toilets, hot showers and an artesian spa. William Creek and Marree are also common overnight stops nearby.

Internal guide: 🗺️ Read the full Oodnadatta Track driving guide here
Internal guide: 🗺️ Oodnadatta Track Campsites Map & Full List (2026 Guide)

Farina Underground Bakery Opening Dates 2026 + What To Expect

The Farina Underground Bakery is open in 2026 between the following dates and times.

Sat May 23 2026 to Sunday July 19 2026
8.30am to 3.30pm

The Farina Underground Bakery is one of the most popular stops in outback South Australia and after visiting Farina at least six times over the years between 2016 and 2026 including twice when the bakery was open we can see why.

You’ll find the bakery among the ruins of the old Farina township. The bakery is well known for its fresh bread, pies, pastries and famous my favourite – the custard tarts. During winter, travellers from all over Australia stop here while exploring places like Marree, Lake Eyre, William Creek and the Oodnadatta Track.

For us Farina is always worth the stop. The bakery is great, but it is also the history and atmosphere of the old town remains that makes this place special.

Us Standing Outside The Farina Underground Bakery

Where Is The Farina Underground Bakery?

Farina is located about 42km south of Marree in outback South Australia – between Lyndhurst and Marree.

The underground bakery is part of the Farina Restoration Project, where volunteers work to restore buildings and keep the history of the town alive.

When Is The Farina Bakery Open In 2026?

The Farina Underground Bakery is open in 2026 between the following dates and times.

Sat May 23 2026 to Sunday July 19 2026
8.30am to 3.30pm

We have visited Farina lots of times when the bakery was closed and still enjoyed exploring the ruins and camping. To be honest we’ve preferred Farina for camping and exploring the town when the bakery has been closed as it is a LOT quieter.

If you want to buy food from the bakery, it is a good idea to check opening dates before you travel.

What Food Does The Bakery Sell?

When we visited during bakery season, there was a good range of fresh food available including:

Bread
Bread rolls
Pies
Pasties
Sausage rolls
Cakes
Slices
Donuts
Custard tarts
Coffee and drinks

On both of our bakery visits there were already plenty of customers lined up not long after opening time.

Our Experience Visiting Farina

We have stopped at Farina many times and always enjoy visiting.

The bakery itself is a great stop but we also recommend spending time walking around the old ruins. There is a lot more to see than many people expect.

Some of the things you can explore include:

Old stone buildings
Underground rooms
Railway remains
Historic ruins
Information signs
Restored heritage areas

Sitting in the middle of the old town with a fresh pastry and coffee is one of those simple outback experiences that is hard to beat. Even when it gets busy, the volunteers running the bakery have always been friendly and organised during our visits.

Why Is The Farina Underground Bakery So Popular?

It Is Different

There are not many places in Australia where you can visit an underground bakery inside an old ghost town.

It Has Real History

Farina was once a busy railway town and you can still see plenty of that history today.

The Food Is Good

After a long drive through the outback, fresh bakery food always goes down well.

Us Parked Up At The Farina Town Entry

It Helps Restore Farina

Money raised through the bakery helps support ongoing restoration work around the town.

You Can Camp At Farina

We’ve camped at Farina more than half a dozen times and will do so plenty more. It’s one of our favourite places to camp.

Amanda Paying Our Camping Fees At Farina

Tips For Visiting The Farina Underground Bakery

Arrive Early

Popular food items can sell out during busy periods.

Allow Time To Explore

Farina is worth more than just a quick bakery stop.

Carry Water And Supplies

You are in a remote part of South Australia.

Check Road Conditions

Road conditions in the outback can change quickly after rain.

Visit In Winter

The cooler months are the best time to travel through this area.

Is The Farina Underground Bakery Worth Visiting?

Yes, definitely.

After visiting Farina at least six times, including twice during bakery season we reckon it is one of the best stops in outback South Australia.

The bakery, the ruins and the history all make it a memorable place to visit.

If you are travelling north through Marree, heading towards Lake Eyre or driving the Oodnadatta Track we would absolutely recommend stopping at Farina.

We Took The Directions To Farina Near Witchelina On Mularia Road In 2024

Farina Photo Gallery

Farina Campgrounds Camp Honesty Box

Marree Itinerary Old Car At Farina Outside Police Station 2025

Us Parked Up At The Farina Town Entry

Farina-Campground-Donkey-Boiler

Farina Camping Area

The-Campground-At-Farina-Is-Massive

The Campground At Farina Is Massive

Us Standing Outside The Farina Underground Bakery

Old Sign To Farina Near Witchelina

FAQs About The Farina Underground Bakery

Is the Farina Underground Bakery open all year?

No. The bakery normally operates during the cooler months between around May and July.

Where is Farina located?

Farina is located about 42 kilometres south of Marree in South Australia.

What is the Farina Underground Bakery famous for?

It is best known for its pies, sausage rolls, pasties, bread and bread rolls plus a range of fresh baked food and it's uniquely original underground bakery setup.

Is Farina worth visiting if the bakery is closed?

Yes. The old ruins and historic township are still well worth seeing.

Can caravans and motorhomes get to Farina?

Yes. Farina is a very popular stop for caravans, campers and four wheel drives.

How much time should you allow at Farina?

We would recommend allowing at the very least a couple of hours to explore the ruins and enjoy the bakery if it is open. To be honest though you really need a couple of days to do any justice to the remains of the old town.

Internal guide: 🗺️ Read the full Oodnadatta Track driving guide here
Internal guide: 🗺️ Oodnadatta Track Campsites Map & Full List (2026 Guide)

Free Camping At Bromus Dam WA: A Great Nullarbor Campsite

✔ Free camp
✔ Nullarbor location
✔ Lots of room
✔ Toilets

Free camping at Bromus Dam WA near Norseman. Honest review, facilities, access tips and what to expect at this quiet nullarbor stopover. If you’ve spent any time travelling across Western Australia you’ll know the value of a good, reliable free camp. Bromus Dam is one of those spots that doesn’t get a lot of coverage or reviews – but after staying here ourselves it’s one we’d happily pull into again. It’s simple, it’s quiet and it provides exactly what you need after a day on the road.

Where is Bromus Dam?

Bromus Dam sits about 30 – 35km south of Norseman, just off the Coolgardie Esperance Highway. It’s an easy turn off and only a short drive in on a gravel access road so you don’t need to worry about rough tracks or tricky access.

Coordinates: -32.4585, 121.6837
Nearest town: Norseman (approx. 30 minutes)
Road access: Sealed highway + short gravel entry

It’s a handy stop if you’re heading towards Esperance or coming across from the Nullarbor.

Bromus Dam Camping And Info At A Glance

Bromus Dam Camping offers an affordable camping experience with toilets, picnic facilities, and ample camping areas. Situated 20 km east of Norseman, it’s a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy nature at an economical price.

Type: Nullarbor Free Camping
Amenities: Toilets, camping areas, picnic facilities
Location: Eyre Highway, 20 km east of Norseman
Cost: Free
GPS: -32.1695, 121.8808
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Pets: Yes
Distance From Norseman: 20 km
Distance From Ceduna: 1030 km

Free Camping Near Norseman WA Bromus Dam

A Bit Bromus Dam History

Bromus Dam dates back to the late 1920s when it was used to supply water for steam trains running through the area. These days it’s a well maintained rest area and campsite.

Is Bromus Dam Free?

Yes – completely free.

Just pull in, pick a spot and set up. It’s first come, first served like most bush camps in WA.

Facilities For Camping At Bromus Dam

For a free camp, the facilities here are actually pretty decent. Camping at Bromus Dam has a lot more than many other Nullarbor free camps.

What You’ll Find

Toilets
Picnic tables
Rubbish bins
Fire pits
Large open camping area

What You Won’t Find

No drinking water
No power
No dump point
Patchy or no mobile reception. We had one bar of Telstra 4G

You’ll need to be fully self sufficient, especially with water.

Our Experience Camping At Bromus Dam

When we stayed here the first thing that stood out was how much space there is. You’re not crammed in next to others – even with a few vans around it still feels open. Head down the back to find some great sites suitable for caravans.

The ground is mostly gravel which makes it ideal for caravans and motorhomes and there are enough scattered trees to grab a bit of shade if you time it right.

Despite being close to the highway it was quiet overnight. We got the odd truck passing through but nothing that kept us awake.

It’s the kind of place where you pull up, cook a meal and have a campfire and a couple of beers.

Is it Caravan Friendly?

Yes – very much so.

This is one of the easier free camps in WA to access with a van:

Plenty of room to turn around
Flat areas for parking
No tight access points

We’d have no hesitation recommending it for caravans, motorhomes, or even bigger rigs.

Best Time Go Camping At bromus Dam

The cooler months (April through October) are the best time to stay here.

Summer can be extremely hot and shade is limited so it’s not the most comfortable stop in peak heat.

If you’re lucky enough to pass through in spring you may catch some wildflowers in the surrounding bush.

Things To Know Before You Go

Bring all your own drinking water
Check fire restrictions before lighting a fire
Arrive earlier in the day if you want a shaded spot
Don’t rely on mobile reception
Take your rubbish if bins are full

Pros And Cons

Pros

Free and easy to access
Good space for caravans
Toilets available
Quiet bush setting

Cons

No drinking water
Limited shade
Basic facilities only
Patchy phone signal

Final Thoughts

Bromus Dam isn’t a destination camp – but that’s not the point.

It’s a reliable, no fuss stopover in a part of WA where those matter. After staying here ourselves we’d absolutely use it again when passing through.

If you’re self contained and happy with a simple bush setup it’s a solid option to add to your route.

Information Sources

This article combines first-hand experience with publicly available, verifiable data from:

Shire of Dundas (local government tourism information)
Personal experience

Conclusion

Details such as location, facilities and access have been cross-checked across multiple sources and verified during our own visit.

And if you’re looking for even more great camps including many free camps on the Nullarbor check out this article – 91 EPIC Nullarbor Camping Sites To Add To Your List.

-David & Amanda

Frequently Asked Questions About Camping at Bromus Dam WA

Is Bromus Dam really free to camp at?

Yes, camping at Bromus Dam is completely free. There are no booking requirements or fees, and sites are unallocated so you can choose your own spot when you arrive.

Do you need a 4WD to access Bromus Dam?

No, you don’t need a 4WD. The site is accessed via a sealed highway with a short gravel track that is generally suitable for 2WD vehicles, caravans and motorhomes in normal conditions.

Are there toilets at Bromus Dam?

Yes, there are basic public toilets available at the site. However, there are no other major amenities, so you’ll still need to be largely self-sufficient.

Can you take caravans and big rigs into Bromus Dam?

Yes, the campground is very caravan friendly. There is plenty of space, relatively flat ground, and easy access, making it suitable for larger rigs and motorhomes.

Is there drinking water available at Bromus Dam?

No, there is no potable water available. You’ll need to bring all your own drinking and washing water with you.

Is Bromus Dam a good overnight stop?

Yes, it’s a great overnight stop if you’re travelling through the area. It’s quiet, easy to access, and offers enough basic facilities to make a comfortable break between long driving days.

Oodnadatta Pink Roadhouse Camping And Caravan Park

The Pink Roadhouse at Oodnadatta has been serving visitors to the region for decades. It’s a great overnight stop for caravans and campers tackling the Oodnadatta Track. Located behind the pink roadhouse the camping and caravan park has all the basics you need.

Table Of Contents

Pink Roadhouse Camping & Caravan Park Location And Info At A Glance
Accommodation Options At The Pink Roadhouse Camping & Caravan Park
Facilities
The Roadhouse Experience
What Works Well
The Reality Check
Summary
Related Guides

Pink Roadhouse Camping & Caravan Park Location And Info At A Glance

Cost: About $35 per night powered and $20 per night unpowered. Varies depending upon season.
Type: Caravan Park / Paid Campground
Location: -27.549235°, 135.447553°
Distance From Marree: 406km
Distance From Oodnadatta: 0km
Distance From Marla: 254km

Accommodation Options At The Pink Roadhouse Camping & Caravan Park

The Pink Roadhouse Camping and Caravan Park has powered and unpowered sites. They also have a limited range of cabins available ranging from basic to not so basic (still a bit basic).

Pink Roadhouse Oodnadatta

Facilities

Amenities are a mixed bag – some are new and some show their age. The newer shower and laundry block is excellent, with clean facilities that are a welcome sight after long days on rough roads. Pro tip: use the showers next to the laundry block as they’re the newest and cleanest.

The camp kitchen provides a decent space to prepare meals, though it’s seen better days. Water is available from taps around the site for filling bottles and jerry cans, with desalinated water available out the front. Tank water can be filled at the shared tap on the back fence.

The Roadhouse Experience

The Pink Roadhouse itself is part of the experience. It’s weathered but functional, stocking fuel, groceries, and a good range of essentials. The general store covers most needs with dry goods, some fresh produce, frozen meat, and the usual tourist souvenirs. Coffee is decent, and the food menu includes solid pub meals like parmas and the local Oodna Burger.

Staff are helpful and knowledgeable about local tracks and conditions – worth having a chat if you’re planning to explore further. Joe in particular is a wealth of information about surrounding tracks and points of interest.

What Works Well

Dogs allowed
Clean powered and unpowered sites
Knowledgeable staff for track advice
Well stocked store for restocking basic supplies
Good water quality

The Pink Roadhouse At Oodnadatta

The Reality Check

This isn’t a resort – it’s a working roadhouse in the middle of nowhere. Some facilities are old and functional rather than flash. Prices reflect the remote location on the Oodnadatta Track as you’d expect. The older amenities block shows wear but remains usable.

Summary

The Pink Roadhouse serves is a reliable place to pull up for an overnight stop. It’s clean, it’s functional and has the basics of what you need. It’s an awesome place you don’t want to miss when driving along the Oodnadatta Track.

Whether restocking supplies, refuelling or you need a quick meal and a cold drink the Pink Roadhouse delivers the essentials with genuine outback hospitality.

Internal guide: 🗺️ Read the full Oodnadatta Track driving guide here
Internal guide: 🗺️ Oodnadatta Track Campsites Map & Full List (2026 Guide)

Marla Travellers Rest: Your Last (Or First) Oodnadatta Track Stop

If you’re driving the Oodnadatta Track chances are you’ll end up at Marla Travellers Rest. This roadhouse is right where the Stuart Highway meets the Oodnadatta Track.

This makes the Marla Travellers Rest an obvious choice for your first or last campsite and supply point before heading into some seriously remote country or taking a rest at the end of it. We’ve stopped here multiple times over the years and it’s one of our regular stops in the region. Here’s what you need to know.

Table Of Contents

Marla Travellers Rest Caravan Park Location And Info At A Glance
Why Marla Travellers Rest Caravan Park Works
What’s Available
Pricing And Practicalities
Oodnadatta Track Considerations
What It Is
Bottom Line
Related Guides

Marla Travellers Rest Caravan Park Location And Info At A Glance

Cost: $45 per night powered – $25 per night unpowered
Type: Caravan Park
Location: Wattle St, Marla, South Australia
GPS: -27.3040320, 133.6244510
Pet Friendly: Yes
Website: https://www.marla.com.au/
Distance From Marree: 603km
Distance From Oodnadatta: 254km
Distance From Marla: 0km

Marla Travellers Rest On Google Earth

Why Marla Travellers Rest Caravan Park Works

The amenities here are fantastic. The shower blocks are spotless despite constant use from travellers coming off dusty tracks. Someone’s clearly taking pride in maintaining these facilities properly.

Sites are well thought out too. The powered spots give you gravel to park on but grass to step onto when you open your van door – simple but effective. Unpowered sites follow a more relaxed roundabout setup that works fine, though it’s less structured than in some parks.

What’s Available

Marla Travellers Rest Caravan Park covers pretty much everything you’d expect:

Food And Drink

Café doing breakfast, lunch and dinner
Decent coffee that actually tastes like coffee
Bar with proper happy hour ($5 beers)
Good feed available in the restaurant – they don’t skimp on the vegetables

Supplies

Supermarket with solid range of basics
Cold goods and frozen items
Camping gear and mechanical bits
Fuel – both diesel and unleaded

Facilities

Swimming pool (clean and refreshing)
Camp kitchen with sinks and power points
Phone coverage works fine
Hot showers with good pressure

Pricing And Practicalities

Service	Details	Notes
Powered Sites	$45 a night	Book early afternoon for best availability
Unpowered Sites	$25 a night	Roundabout-style layout
Fuel	Diesel and petrol	Occasional supply disruptions possible
Supermarket	Full range of supplies	Cold goods, camping gear, mechanical items
Café/Restaurant	Breakfast, lunch, dinner	Good portions, fresh vegetables
Bar	Happy hour specials	$5 beers during happy hour
Swimming Pool	Clean and maintained	Great for cooling off
Amenities	Exceptionally clean	Hot showers, good water pressure

Get in by early afternoon if you want a powered site. Place fills up fast, especially when there’s fuel issues elsewhere along the highway. We’ve seen it absolutely packed by nightfall, but it stays surprisingly quiet given the numbers.

Oodnadatta Track Considerations

Whether you’re starting or finishing the Oodnadatta Track, Marla serves a crucial role. Heading out? This is your last reliable chance to grab supplies, top up water and fuel up properly. The next decent services are a long way away. Coming back? Time to celebrate with a cold beer and hot shower after days of rough camping.

The supermarket stocks more than you’d expect for such a remote location. They’ve got the basics covered plus camping accessories and some mechanical gear. Won’t replace proper preparation, but handy for last-minute items or emergency supplies.

What It Is

It’s not fancy. You’re paying for location and reliability rather than luxury. When you’re this far from anywhere location and reliability matter more than fancy landscaping. The pool’s clean, the showers are hot and the bar serves cold beer at good prices. Hard to ask for much more.

Road noise exists but it’s not excessive. Most nights stay pretty quiet despite being right off the highway. The grass areas give you somewhere decent to sit outside your van rather than just dirt or gravel.

End Or Start Of The Oodnadatta Track At Marla

Amanda & I At The End Or Start (End For Us This Trip) Of The Oodnadatta Track At Marla In 2024

Bottom Line

Marla works because it delivers the essentials without fuss. Clean facilities, fair prices, reliable services and everything you need for track preparation or recovery. We keep coming back because it consistently meets expectations rather than promising more than it delivers.

For anyone serious about the Oodnadatta Track this stop makes sense. Just don’t expect to roll in at 5pm and get your pick of powered sites.

Internal guide: 🗺️ Read the full Oodnadatta Track driving guide here
Internal guide: 🗺️ Oodnadatta Track Campsites Map & Full List (2026 Guide)

Oodnadatta Track Fuel Stops 2026 – 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.

Given the current circumstances in 2026 fuel availability along the Oodnadatta Track can change without notice. Some outlets may have limited supplies or altered opening hours due to demand, weather or logistics. Use any details in this guide as a general indication only, not a guarantee. Before you travel you should always phone each service station or roadhouse to confirm current fuel availability, opening hours and what fuel types they have on the day. Phone numbers for all fuel stops mentioned are listed for you in the blog post below so you can check ahead and plan safely.

Oodnadatta Track Fuel Stops Map Infographic

Oodnadatta Track Fuel Stops Map (Not To Scale)

Table Of Contents

Distance Summary & Fuel Planning
List Of Oodnadatta Track Fuel Stops Grouped In Order Of Location
Main Track Fuel Stops (South to North)
Related Guides

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.

Internal guide: 🗺️ Read the full Oodnadatta Track driving guide here
Internal guide: 🗺️ Oodnadatta Track Campsites Map & Full List (2026 Guide)

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