Bridge Ruins Campsite: Oodnadatta Track Marree End

Bridge Ruins Campsite: Oodnadatta Track Marree End

Bridge Ruins Campsite: Oodnadatta Track Marree End

The Bridge Ruins Campsite at Callana is a great overnight stop on the Oodnadatta Track. If you’ve just left Marree after travelling up from South and have had a long day then this is a great place for you to camp up for the night. Alternatively if you’ve all but finished travelling the Oodnadatta track from the northern end and are looking for one more night on the track then the Bridge Ruins are your best bet as well.

About The Bridge At The Bridge Ruins Campsite On The Oodnadatta Track

Google Maps has the bridge name listed as “Wangianna creek Railway Bridge” however I am happy to stand corrected. The Bridge Ruins campsite near Callana Siding is located approximately 34 kilometers from Marree. This free campsite is of historical interest with some remains of the Old Ghan railway line that once connected Port Augusta to Alice Springs.

Bridge Ruins Campsite On Google Earth

Bridge Ruins Campsite On Google Earth

Bridge Ruins Campsite At Callana Location And Info At A Glance

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping / Bush Camping
Location: -29.650705°, 137.716823°
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Marree: 14km
Distance From Oodnadatta: 371km
Distance From Marla: 625km

What You’ll Find Here

The Callana Siding area contains several abandoned bits of railway infrastructure including a water tower and pipe that remain from the operational period of the Old Ghan. While less extensive than other sites such as Algebuckina these abandoned pieces are still cool to look at and explore.

What You Need To Know About Camping At Bridge Ruins Campsite On The Oodnadatta Track

  • The campsite is about 50 metres south of the former railway crossing point.
  • The area has just enough room for two to three caravans.
  • Access includes adequate turning space for caravans.
  • Some visitors with four-wheel drive vehicles and no caravan utilise the embankment area for additional camping spaces away from the main track.

The location gives a quiet camping environment with minimal traffic disturbance. You can expect clear views for sunrise and sunset viewing. The site has absolutely zero facilities. There’s plenty of local wildlife (birds) including fairy wrens and pipits. And flies, there’ll probably be quite a few flies.

Ground conditions can sometimes be soft. It might be a better option to reverse into position instead of going in nose first. The site does give good shelter from strong winds.

Bridge Ruins Camp Site On The Oodnadatta Track

Bridge Ruins Campsite On The Oodnadatta Track

Summary

Bridge Ruins Camp Site suits travelers seeking an easy overnight stop near the Marree end of the Oodnadatta Track. You should exercise caution when accessing the site when towing a caravan. The location represents typical outback camping conditions – no amenities with scenic surroundings!

Oolarinna Creek: Free Camp Site On The Oodnadatta Track

Oolarinna Creek: Free Camp Site On The Oodnadatta Track

Oolarinna Creek: Free Camp Site On The Oodnadatta Track

Oolarinna Creek has a free camp site. It’s a remote bush camping area on the Oodnadatta Track. It’s quite a popular free camp site. It’s remote and generally very quiet. It’s pet friendly.

Oolarinna Creek Camp Site Location And Info At A Glance

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping / Bush Camping
Location: -27.162411°, 134.621032°
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Marree: 503km
Distance From Oodnadatta: 98km
Distance From Marla: 156km

Oolarinna Creek Camp Site Location

  • Region: Outback South Australia
  • Track: Oodnadatta Track
  • Nearest Major Town: Approximately 980km northwest of Adelaide
  • Access: Suitable for camper trailers, caravans and tents.

Free Camping On The Oodnadatta Track

Free Camping On The Oodnadatta Track

Facilities & Site Features

  • Type: Free campground
  • Space: Large, open and flat. Suitable for various setups
  • Amenities:
    • No formal facilities or amenities (no toilets, showers, water or power)
    • No defined camp sites – camping is beside the creek just pick your spot
  • Best For: Self contained campers

Camping Experience

  • Atmosphere: Quiet with little traffic or noise. You’re gonna get picturesque outback scenery
  • Shade: There are lots of trees around and a lot of low scrubby bushes
  • Fees: Free

Practical Information About Oolarinna Creek

Feature Description
Cost Free
Facilities None (no toilets, showers, water)
Accessibility 4WD recommended, accessible by caravans, trailers and tents
Shelter Limited natural shelter from bushes
Camping type Bush camping, self-sufficient only
Best suited for Offroad travel type campers

Tips

  • Bring rubbish bags – leave no trace.
  • Be prepared for remote conditions: there is minimal shade and no phone reception.
  • Oolarinna Creek is an awesome overnight camping spot on the Oodnadatta Track but requires you to be well prepared and self reliant.

Oolarinna Creek Camp Site Google Maps Image

Oolarinna Creek Camp Site Google Maps Image

Summary

Oolarinna Creek Camp Site is a free, remote bush camping spot located along the Oodnadatta Track in the outback of South Australia. It has flat open camping areas with little shade or privacy and no facilities. It’s suitable for self sufficient and well prepared campers. Access by 4WD, caravans or camper trailers.

Gregory Creek: Free Camp Site On The Oodnadatta Track

Gregory Creek: Free Camp Site On The Oodnadatta Track

Gregory Creek: Free Camp Site On The Oodnadatta Track

Gregory Creek is a free campsite located on the Oodnadatta Track in outback South Australia. It’s right alongside the old Ghan railway line and surrounded by Oodnadatta Track red dirt scenery.

Gregory Creek Free Camp Site Location And Info At A Glance

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping / Bush Camping
Location: -29.564041°, 137.334957°
Pet Friendly: Yes
Distance From Marree: 74km
Distance From Oodnadatta: 332km
Distance From Marla: 586km

Getting There

You can get to Gregory Creek from either Marree or Oodnadatta. The road is unsealed gravel but it’s but usually in good enough condition when dry. All bets are off if it’s wet. A 4WD is strongly recommended but but you can try your luck in a 2WD vehicle in dry weather.

Facilities

  • Fire pits (homemade jobs by previous campers)
  • Offroad Caravans
  • Camper Trailers
  • Tents and Swags

Note: There is no drinking water or showers. Bring everything you need with you.

Gregory Creek Campfire On The Oodnadatta Track

Gregory Creek Campfire On The Oodnadatta Track

Camp Fires

Campfires are allowed. There was no firewood around when we camped there so bring it with you. Don’t be a flog and cut down existing trees – what looks like a dead tree is just a dormant tree and will come back to life but it won’t if some moron has burned it.

Best Time to Visit

The cooler months from May to September are best. Summer temperatures can be extreme. Keep an eye on the Bureau of Meteorology to see if rain is on the way as wet weather can close the Oodnadatta Track.

Nearby Attractions

  • Old Ghan railway ruins and bridges
  • Curdimurka Siding
  • Algebuckina Bridge
  • Mound springs

Quick Summary Of Gregory Creek Free Camp Site

Feature Details
Location Oodnadatta Track, SA
Cost Free
Vehicle Access 4WD best – 2WD possible when dry
Facilities Pretty much nothing
Water/Showers None – bring your own
Fires Allowed in season and if there are no fire bans in place
Best Time May to September

Conclusion: Gregory Creek Free Camp Site

Gregory Creek is an awesome camping stop along the Oodnadatta Track. It’s simple, quiet and free – in other words just the way we like it. We’ve stayed there before and we will stay there again!

Alberrie Creek Bridge: Free Camp Site On The Oodnadatta Track

Alberrie Creek Bridge: Free Camp Site On The Oodnadatta Track

Alberrie Creek Bridge: Free Camp Site On The Oodnadatta Track

Alberrie Creek Bridge is a remote free camp site on the Oodnadatta Track in northern South Australia. It’s a popular free camping spot. There are no amenities of any sort so make sure you’re prepared for bush camping are self sufficient.

Alberrie Creek Bridge Location And Info At A Glance

Cost: Free
Type: Free Camping / Bush Camping
Pet Friendly: Yes
Location: -29.647019°, 137.639436°
Distance From Marree: 42km
Distance From Oodnadatta: 363km
Distance From Marla: 617km

Alberrie Creek Bridge Campsite On Oodnadatta Track

Alberrie Creek Bridge Campsite On Oodnadatta Track

Location And Surroundings

Alberrie Creek Bridge is situated roughly halfway along the Oodnadatta Track making it an awesome place to stop and camp up for the night. The landscape is your usual Oodnadatta Track vast plains and red dirt. Free Camping At Alberrie creek Bridge on the Oodnadatta Track is a classic outback experience.

Alberrie Creek Bridge Camp Site Facilities

There are no facilities on site. You need to bring all of your own supplies including water. What firewood was once available has long since been scavenged and used so if you want to have a campfire you’ll need to bring your own wood. Make sure you take all of your rubbish with you – do the right thing to help keep the area clean.

Nearby Points of Interest

The nearest “town” is William Creek which has fuel, basic supplies and a ripper of a pub. Further along the track heading towards Oodnadatta the Algebuckina Bridge – another very popular free camping location on the Oodnadatta Track.

William Creek Hotel

William Creek Hotel

It’s On The Oodnadatta Track

  • The Oodnadatta Track is a famous 620 km unsealed outback road stretching from Marree in the south to Marla in the north. It closely follows the path of the old Ghan Railway and the Overland Telegraph Line.
  • Sites along the track include historic railway bridges, telegraph relics and remains of old abandoned settlements.

Key Features Of Alberrie Creek Bridge

  • Location: About halfway along the Oodnadatta Track makes it a practical free camping spot.
  • No Facilities: There are no toilets, water or amenities on site. Come prepared.
  • Surroundings: The bridge is set in a classic outback landscape. You’ve got your typical open gibber plains and red dirt.
  • Close To William Creek: Alberrie Creek is not far from William Creek.

Summary

This is a basic remote camp site on the Oodnadatta Track. With no facilities on site you have to be prepared and self sufficient.

Coward Springs Oodnadatta Track: We’ve Camped There Twice

Coward Springs Oodnadatta Track: We’ve Camped There Twice

Coward Springs Oodnadatta Track: We’ve Camped There Twice

Our two stays at Coward Springs Campground: Oodnadatta Track advice, donkey boiler showers and the springs – caravanning in SA’s outback.

Coward Springs campgrounds is a desert stop on the Oodnadatta Track that is full of history. Located along the famous Oodnadatta Track in South Australia’s outback, Coward Springs mixes history, nature and adventure. We first camped here in September 2019 with our Supreme Getaway off-road caravan and returned in August 2022 while on another trip. Both trips showed us what makes this spot special – and what challenges to expect.

Camping At Coward Springs Campground

Camping At Coward Springs Campground

Coward Springs Campground

Address: Oodnadatta Track, Stuarts Creek, South Australia 5733
GPS: -29.401325°, 136.813945°
Pet Friendly: Yes
Email: contact@cowardsprings.com.au
Website: http://www.cowardsprings.com.au
Phone: +61 8 8675 8336
Cost: (2025) $18 per adult & Children (3–15 years) half price
Adults: $15 per night
Bookings: https://cowardsprings.com.au/booking/

Amanda Checking In At Coward Springs

Amanda Checking In At Coward Springs

The Story Of Coward Springs

Coward Springs started as a stop for the Old Ghan Railway in the late 1800s, using water from the Great Artesian Basin to power steam trains. When the railway closed, the site nearly vanished until locals restored it in the 1990s. Today, you can explore the old railway workers’ huts, a small museum and the natural springs that keep this place alive.

Our 2019 vs. 2022 Experience

We’ve compared our two visits to help you plan better. We loved both stays!

Aspect September 2019 August 2022
Crowds Busy by 4 PM; all 20 campsites full. Quieter, with half the sites empty midweek.
Weather Warm days (25-30°C), chilly nights (5°C). Cooler days (18–22°C), freezing nights (0-3°C) – bring something warm to sleep in!
Natural Spring Waited 20 minutes for a soak. Walked straight in – no queues.
Road Conditions Dry, smooth gravel roads from William Creek. Recent rain caused minor rutting and corrugations; 4WD recommended.
Facilities Donkey boiler showers worked well. New compost toilets added.

10 Activities Near Coward Springs

  1. Wabma Kadarbu Mound Springs
    Visited twice – the bright blue water of Blanche Cup never gets old!
  2. William Creek Pub
    Ate their famous pie in 2019; tried lamb shanks in 2022. Both meals hit the spot.
  3. Lake Eyre (Kati Thanda)
    Flew over in 2019 (water present), drove to Lake Eyre South in 2022 (bone-dry).
  4. Strangways Springs Ruins
    More signage added by 2022 – easier to understand the history.
  5. Algebuckina Bridge
    Have camped there three times. Great for sunset photos. See if you can find the graves.
  6. Coward Springs Walk
    The 1.5 km loop felt quicker in 2022 with cooler weather.
  7. Mutonia Sculpture Park
    New plane wreck art added near Lake Eyre since 2019. we’ve called in here every time we’ve travelled the Oodnadatta Track.
  8. Stargazing
    Clearer skies in August 2022 – saw the Southern Cross and Orion.
  9. Oodnadatta Track Drive
    Noticed more roadside rest areas by 2022.
  10. Chat with Travellers
    Met more international visitors in 2022 post-COVID border reopenings.

What We Learned Across Both Trips

  1. Best Time to Visit
    1. September: Warmer days but crowded. Book early.
    2. August: Quieter but pack warm clothes and bedding for freezing nights.
  2. Packing Tips
    1. 2019 Misses: Forgot to bring firewood with us. We ran out the night before.
    2. 2022 Wins: New caravan had a gas heater installed.
  3. Campground Changes (2019 vs. 2022)
    1. Improved: New compost toilets, better signage for walks.
    2. Same: No drinking water, power, or phone reception.

How To Drive To Coward Springs, South Australia

Reaching Coward Springs requires careful planning due to its remote location on the Oodnadatta Track, a historic outback route in northern South Australia. The track is largely unsealed, with gravel, corrugations, and occasional rutting after rain. A 4WD vehicle is recommended although 2WDs can manage in dry conditions if driven cautiously. From Adelaide, most travellers take the Princess Highway to Port Augusta, then head north via Leigh Creek to Marree—the official start of the Oodnadatta Track. From Marree, it’s a 160 km drive north to Coward Springs. Fuel, water, and spare tires are essential, as services are limited beyond Marree and William Creek. Always check the [SA Outback Roads Report](https://www.dpti.sa.gov.au/OutbackRoads) before departing.

Donkey Boiler

Donkey Boiler

Driving Distances And Times

From Capital Cities

Starting Point Distance to Coward Springs Estimated Driving Time Key Route Notes
Adelaide, SA 845 km 9–10 hours Via Port Augusta, Leigh Creek, and Marree. Mix of sealed and unsealed roads.
Melbourne, VIC 1,200 km 13–14 hours Follow Mallee Highway to Adelaide route, then north via Port Augusta.
Sydney, NSW 1,500 km 16–17 hours Via Broken Hill and Port Augusta. Mostly sealed until Marree.
Brisbane, QLD 2,000 km 22+ hours Through Bourke, Broken Hill, and Port Augusta. Long stretches of sealed highways.
Perth, WA 2,700 km 30+ hours Cross Nullarbor to Ceduna, then Port Augusta. Requires multiple overnight stops.
Darwin, NT 2,300 km 25+ hours Stuart Highway to Alice Springs, then south via Kulgera. Mostly sealed.

Along The Oodnadatta Track

Starting Point Distance to Coward Springs Estimated Driving Time Road Conditions
Marree, SA 160 km 2 hours Unsealed, corrugated. 2WD possible in dry weather.
William Creek, SA 90 km 1.5 hours Gravel with occasional washouts. 4WD advised after rain.
Oodnadatta, SA 280 km 3.5 hours Rough, sandy sections. 4WD essential.
Coober Pedy, SA 236 km 3 hours Unsealed via William Creek. Carry extra fuel.
Lake Eyre South (Halligan Bay) 110 km 2 hours Requires detour from William Creek. Check access permits.

Key Tips For Driving

  1. Fuel Up: Last reliable fuel stops are in Marree (south) or Oodnadatta (north).
  2. Water & Supplies: Carry 10L water/person/day. No shops between Marree and William Creek.
  3. Tyres: Reduce tire pressure to 28–32 PSI for corrugations.
  4. Weather: Avoid travel after rain – roads close quickly.
  5. Permits: Some detours (e.g., Lake Eyre) require National Parks permits.

By planning ahead and respecting the outback’s challenges, your drive to Coward Springs will be an unforgettable adventure.

Conclusion: Why Coward Springs Deserves A Spot On Your Outback Itinerary

Coward Springs, South Australia, is more than a campground – it’s a portal to the raw beauty and layered history of the outback. From its bubbling artesian spa to the echoes of the Old Ghan Railway, this remote oasis rewards travellers willing to embrace its rugged simplicity. Our two visits – in September 2019 and August 2022 – taught us that timing is key: spring brings warmth and crowds, while winter offers solitude (and chilly nights). The journey here, whether from Adelaide or Darwin, is part of the adventure. The Oodnadatta Track’s corrugations and dust test your preparation, but the payoff – soaking in 29°C mineral waters under a desert sky – is unmatched. While facilities remain basic (donkey boilers and compost toilets included), the camaraderie among campers and the haunting beauty of nearby sites like Wabma Kadarbu Springs elevate the experience.

For caravanners, Coward Springs is a rite of passage. It demands self sufficiency, extra water, firewood and patience – but delivers an authenticity that glossy resorts can’t replicate. Whether you’re tracing Aboriginal trade routes, photographing wedge-tailed eagles or swapping stories at William Creek Pub this corner of South Australia etches itself into your memory.

Final Tip: Plan meticulously, pack your sense of humour and let the outback work its magic. As we’ve learned twice now, Coward Springs isn’t just a destination – it’s a story waiting to unfold.

The Bubbler Moundspring On The Oodnadatta Track

The Bubbler Moundspring On The Oodnadatta Track

Final Thoughts

  • 2019 vs. 2022: Both trips had pros. September’s warmth suited swimming, while August’s quiet let us enjoy the springs alone.
  • Would We Return? Yes – but in late autumn (April/May) to avoid extremes.
  • Biggest Surprise: The museum expanded by 2022 with railway artifacts dug up locally.
  • Essential Tip: Bring 20% more water than you think you’ll need. Both times we ran low.

Helpful Links:

Coward Springs Campground Photos

Frequently Asked Questions FAQs About Coward Springs

When is the best time to visit Coward Springs?

Spring (September–November) offers warm days (25–30°C) and lively crowds, while winter (June–August) provides cooler days (18–22°C) and fewer visitors. Avoid summer due to extreme heat.

Are there showers and toilets at the campground?

Yes! Coward Springs has donkey boiler-heated showers (wood-fired) and compost toilets. Bring your own toilet paper and firewood for the boiler.

Do I need a 4WD to reach Coward Springs?

In dry weather, 2WD vehicles can manage the Oodnadatta Track, but 4WD is recommended for safety, especially after rain. Roads are corrugated and unsealed.

Is drinking water available at Coward Springs?

No—bring 10L of water per person per day. The nearest supplies are in Marree (160 km south) or William Creek (90 km northwest).

How do I book a campsite?

Campsites at Coward Springs can be booked online through their official website. Keep in mind that payment is required upfront, and confirmation emails may take up to 24–48 hours to arrive.

What are the must-see attractions nearby?

Some of the key attractions near Coward Springs include Wabma Kadarbu Mound Springs, located just ten minutes away, the iconic William Creek Hotel approximately 90 kilometres north, Lake Eyre South which requires a 110-kilometre detour, and the historic Algebuckina Bridge, a fascinating railway site.

Towing A Caravan On The Great Central Road

Towing A Caravan On The Great Central Road

Towing A Caravan On The Great Central Road

Towing A Caravan On The Great Central Road is a true test of resilience and preparation. Find out how to make it a trip to remember. The Great Central Road is an iconic outback route spanning over 1,100 kilometres, is a bucket list destination for adventurers seeking a true taste of Australia’s rugged heartland.

Stretching from Laverton in Western Australia to Yulara in the Northern Territory, this remote journey traverses some of the country’s most breathtaking and desolate landscapes. Towing a caravan on the Great Central Road is a challenging yet rewarding experience, demanding preparation, resilience and a sense of adventure.

We Completed The Great Central Road Towing A Caravan In August 2024

We did the trip back in August 2024 and a really great time. We travelled from Yulara all the way through to Laverton in WA. Amanda was interested in seeing camels and brumbies and we got to see both. One of the highlights for me was calling in to see Lasseters Cave.

The campsites we stayed at were,

  1. Docker River
  2. Yarla Kutjarra
  3. Desert Surf Central
  4. Giles Breakaway

The Road Less Travelled

The Great Central Road is mostly unsealed, with stretches of gravel, corrugations and occasional soft sand. It cuts through diverse terrains, from the red dunes of the Gibson Desert to vast open plains and rocky outcrops. For those considering towing a caravan on the Great Central Road, understanding the road’s conditions is crucial. While the route is navigable by high clearance vehicles, towing adds complexity, especially when navigating loose gravel or uneven surfaces.

Towing A Caravan On The Great Central Road

Towing A Caravan On The Great Central Road

Preparing Your Vehicle and Caravan

Preparation is key when undertaking this journey. Vehicles must be robust and well maintained, with a capable towing setup. A reliable 4WD with sufficient ground clearance is strongly recommended. For caravans, an off-road or semi-off-road model is ideal, as standard caravans may struggle to withstand the harsh conditions. Reinforced suspension, all terrain tyres and a strong chassis are essential for towing a caravan on the Great Central Road.

Equally important is adjusting your tyre pressures to match the terrain. Lower tyre pressures reduce stress on your vehicle and caravan, providing better traction and a smoother ride over corrugations. Carrying a tyre repair kit and a compressor is non-negotiable, as punctures are common on this track.

Fuel And Water: The Lifelines

Fuel stops along the Great Central Road are infrequent, with major refuelling points at Laverton, Warburton, Warakurna and Docker River. Travellers should plan fuel usage carefully, as running out in this remote region can be both inconvenient and dangerous. A long range fuel tank or extra jerry cans are indispensable for towing a caravan on the Great Central Road.

Water is another critical resource. The arid environment means water sources are scarce and temperatures can soar. Carry enough drinking water for the duration of your journey, along with additional reserves for emergencies.

The Challenges Of Remote Travel

While the scenery along the Great Central Road is captivating, the remoteness poses unique challenges. Communication can be limited, with patchy mobile reception at best. A UHF radio or satellite phone is highly recommended for safety. Travellers should also carry a comprehensive first aid kit and a detailed map of the area, as GPS devices can occasionally fail in such remote conditions.

Permits are required to travel the Great Central Road, as it passes through Aboriginal lands. These permits are easy to obtain online and help support local communities. Always make sure that you have respect for the land and its cultural significance throughout your journey along the GCR.

Sign At The Start Of The Great Central Road

Sign At The Start Of The Great Central Road

The Rewards Of The Great Central Road (GCR)

For those willing to have a crack at the challenge towing a caravan on the Great Central Road is an unforgettable experience. The landscapes are awe-inspiring, with endless horizons, ochre-red dunes and dramatic sunsets that light up the vast skies. Wildlife sightings are common, with kangaroos, emus and wedge-tailed eagles dotting the terrain.

The route also offers the chance to connect with Australia’s Indigenous culture. Passing through several Aboriginal communities, travellers can learn about local traditions, art and history. The cultural richness adds depth to the adventure, transforming it into more than just a scenic drive.

Great Central Road Near Yarla Kutjarra

Great Central Road Near Yarla Kutjarra

Tips For A Successful Journey

  1. Plan thoroughly: Research the route, obtain permits and check road conditions before departure.
  2. Pack strategically: Include spare tyres, a toolkit, extra fuel and plenty of water.
  3. Drive cautiously: Maintain moderate speeds to minimise wear on your caravan and reduce the risk of accidents on uneven surfaces.
  4. Communicate effectively: Use a UHF radio to stay in touch with other travellers and monitor road conditions.
  5. Respect the environment: Leave no trace and honour the cultural significance of the lands you traverse.

Conclusion To Towing A Caravan On The Great Central Road

Undertaking the challenge of towing a caravan on the Great Central Road is not for the faint-hearted, but for those prepared to take it on, the rewards are immense. From the awesome beauty of the outback to the cultural experiences along the way, this journey gives you the very best of remote Australian travel. With the right preparation, the Great Central Road can be the adventure of a lifetime, offering both trials and triumphs in equal measure.

FAQs Frequently Asked Questions About Towing A Caravan On The Great Central Road

Is the Great Central Road suitable for towing a caravan?

Yes, the Great Central Road is suitable for towing caravans, but it is essential to use an off-road or semi-off-road caravan designed to handle unsealed roads and rugged conditions. Standard caravans may struggle with the corrugations and loose gravel.

Do I need a 4WD for towing a caravan on the Great Central Road?

While a 4WD is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. The road features uneven terrain, corrugations, and sandy sections where the extra traction and clearance of a 4WD are advantageous.

What permits are required for towing a caravan on the Great Central Road?

Travellers need permits as the road crosses Aboriginal lands. Permits are available online from the Central Land Council (NT) and the Ngaanyatjarra Council (WA). Ensure you obtain these permits before your trip.

How should I prepare my caravan and vehicle for the journey?

Check your caravan's suspension, tyres, and chassis to ensure they are in excellent condition. Lower tyre pressures for better traction, pack a tyre repair kit and compressor, and carry extra fuel and water. A thorough mechanical check of your towing vehicle is also essential.

Are there fuel stops along the Great Central Road?

Yes but they are very limited. Refuelling points include Laverton, Warburton, Warakurna, and Docker River. It is advisable to carry extra fuel to account for detours or unforeseen circumstances.

What are the biggest challenges of towing a caravan on the Great Central Road?

The road's remoteness, corrugations and limited amenities pose significant challenges. Travellers should prepare for potential tyre damage, restricted communication, and varying weather conditions. Thorough planning and proper equipment are crucial for a safe journey.