Witjira National Park
Home | Oodnadatta, SA
Overview
Highlights
A true oasis in the desert, featuring more than 120 springs surrounded by lush greenery and abundant wildlife. The park sits on the western edge of the Simpson Desert in the far north of South Australia amid endless sand dunes and stark gibber plains. Witjira National Park features more than 120 mound springs.
The park includes the National Heritage-listed Dalhousie Springs, used by Aboriginal people for thousands of years as a source of food, shelter and medicine. You can swim in the main spring’s warm waters. The area is home to unique species of fish such as the Dalhousie hardyhead and other rare aquatic life found nowhere else in the world. The attraction of the springs, combined with some delightful camping spots and quality visitor facilities, make Witjira one of the most popular parks in the outback. If you're lucky enough to be visiting the park a few weeks after a soaking rain, you'll be rewarded with the ephemeral wildflowers bursting into bloom.
Please note, it is mandatory to purchase a Desert Parks Pass if you wish to camp at Purni Bore or are travelling east of Dalhousie Springs.
Parks and Wildlife Services SA request that you book and pay online for vehicle entry and camping prior to arrival as self-registration stations are no longer available in this park.
Activities
- Camping
- Four-wheel driving
- Swimming
- Sight-seeing
Facilities
- Four-wheel drive tracks
- Camping grounds
- Hot springs
- Lookouts
- Picnic area
- Showers and toilets
Important Information
Guidelines
- Always do some research before heading out for your journey. Visit the parks website for up to date information on the current conditions.
- Stay safe and get the most out of your park visit by preparing for natural hazards and other outdoor risks. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those in your care.
- Wear suitable footwear and ensure to wear appropriate clothing to protect yourself from the elements..
- Plan ahead and ensure to take enough food and water for your journey.
- Always stay on the marked tracks where possible. Never climb fences, they are there for your own safety.
- Please consider the environment, take your rubbish with you or place in the bins provided. We want to ensure these beautiful places are still here for our future generations to enjoy.
- Ensure to let a responsible adult know of your plans and report back into them once you have finished exploring for the day.
- National park and camping fees may apply for South Australian national parks. Check the parks website for bookings and/ or further details.
Photo credits: Parks and Wildlife Services SA
Location & Supplier
Witjira National Park
Address: Dalhousie Springs Campground, Witjira SA 5734
Website: https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/