Touring the Oodnadatta Track: Your Ultimate Guide to an Outback Adventure
The Oodnadatta Track is one of Australia's most iconic outback routes, offering a rugged adventure through the heart of South Australia. This historic track follows the old Ghan Railway line and takes you on a journey through stunning landscapes, unique attractions, and hidden gems. Whether you're into 4WDing or just looking for an unforgettable camping experience in the Australian outback, the Oodnadatta Track has something for everyone. Join us as we share our journey and tips from our recent trip, along with additional insights from the northern sections we missed. Don’t forget to check out our full adventure on our YouTube channel for more inspiration!
Starting Your Journey: Coober Pedy to William Creek
Our adventure began in Coober Pedy, the opal mining capital of the world. This quirky town is the perfect starting point for those entering the Oodnadatta Track from the south. From Coober Pedy, we made our way to William Creek, a tiny outback town that's a must-stop along the track. The road conditions were surprisingly good, with recent grading making the drive smoother than expected.
William Creek is a great spot to refuel, grab a meal at the historic William Creek Hotel, and chat with locals or other travellers to get updated road conditions and tips. It's also a gateway to some of the track’s most interesting attractions, so make sure you stop here for a bit!
Must-See Stops and Experiences on the Oodnadatta Track
William Creek This small town might be tiny, but it's packed with character. The William Creek Hotel is a classic outback pub offering cold drinks, hearty meals, and a chance to meet fellow travellers. It's also the starting point for scenic flights over Lake Eyre (Kati Thanda), Australia's largest salt lake, which is a breathtaking experience.
Coward Springs Campground Our next stop was the unique Coward Springs Campground, a delightful oasis in the outback. Located halfway along the track, it offers a perfect spot to rest and refresh. The natural springs are the main attraction here – a small but refreshing dip awaits you after a long drive. The campground itself is beautifully maintained, with clean facilities, fire pits, and a historic railway museum. With only 20 campsites, we recommend booking online in advance, especially during peak season.
Lake Eyre (Kati Thanda) Further south, Lake Eyre is an essential stop. As the largest salt lake in Australia, it is often dry, creating a surreal, shimmering expanse of white salt flats. Occasionally, rains transform the lake into a vast mirror, reflecting the endless sky. Several viewpoints along the track provide stunning panoramic views, and it's a great spot for photography and experiencing the sheer scale of Australia’s natural beauty.
Algebuckina Bridge Don't miss the chance to explore Algebuckina Bridge, the longest bridge on the Old Ghan Railway line. Spanning the Neales River, this historical structure is a great spot to stretch your legs and take some impressive photos. Nearby, you'll find a free camp spot where you can settle in for the night under the stars.
Oodnadatta If you’re entering the track from the north, your journey begins in Oodnadatta. This small, quirky town is home to the famous Pink Roadhouse, a hub for travellers seeking advice, a meal, or some last-minute supplies. Make sure to visit the local railway museum to learn about the history of the Old Ghan Railway and the region’s past.
Dalhousie Springs For those with more time, a detour to Dalhousie Springs is highly recommended. These natural thermal pools are located on the western edge of the Simpson Desert and offer a hot, relaxing soak surrounded by rugged outback scenery. It's also a popular starting point for the Simpson Desert crossing.
Tips for a Successful Oodnadatta Track Adventure
Prepare for Varying Road Conditions: The Oodnadatta Track is famous for its corrugations, potholes, and dust. These conditions can change quickly due to weather and traffic, so always check for the latest updates at visitor centres or local stops like the William Creek Hotel.
Drive to Conditions and Take It Slow: The outback is unforgiving, and driving too fast is a recipe for trouble. We saw two crashes along the way, so remember to keep your speed in check, especially when overtaking or passing trucks. Dust clouds can greatly reduce visibility, so slow down and drive cautiously. It’s also expensive to get towed, so better safe than sorry!
Carry Spare Parts and Equipment: Make sure you have all the essentials for your vehicle, including spare air filters, belts, and hoses, as well as a tyre repair kit. The dust can clog air filters quickly, and mechanical failures can leave you stranded in a very remote area. Being prepared will save you from costly recovery services.
Plan Your Camping Stops: Whether you’re looking for free camps, national park camping, or general campgrounds, the Oodnadatta Track offers plenty of options. Our favourites were the more secluded free camps near rivers where you could swim. Always have apps like WikiCamps downloaded offline to help you find the best spots and stay up-to-date on facilities.
Stay Hydrated and Stock Up on Supplies: The Oodnadatta Track runs through some of Australia's driest regions, so carrying plenty of water and supplies is crucial. Stock up on essentials in larger towns like Coober Pedy or Oodnadatta, as there are limited opportunities to buy food and water along the track.
Look Out for Wildlife: Early mornings and late evenings are prime times for spotting wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and even camels. Always drive carefully, as animals can appear suddenly on the road.
Stargazing Opportunities: The outback night sky is one of the true highlights of travelling the Oodnadatta Track. With minimal light pollution, you’ll be treated to an incredible view of the stars. Find a quiet spot, lay back, and marvel at the Milky Way.
Best Places to Stay Along the Oodnadatta Track
William Creek Hotel: A classic outback pub and a great spot to refuel and rest.
Coward Springs Campground: An oasis with natural springs, perfect for a break.
Algebuckina Bridge Free Camp: A scenic and historical spot to pitch a tent.
Oodnadatta Pink Roadhouse: Quirky camping with all the essentials.
Copley Pub Free Camp: Free camping behind a historic pub with good facilities.
Final Thoughts
The Oodnadatta Track is an iconic route for anyone interested in camping in Australia, 4WDing, and exploring the outback. From the quirky charm of Oodnadatta to the serene waters of Coward Springs, every part of this journey offers something unique. Make sure you’re prepared, drive to the conditions, and take the time to enjoy the rugged beauty of South Australia.
For a closer look at our adventure along the Oodnadatta Track, check out our full experience on our YouTube channel.
