The Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park is situated approximately 400 km north of Adelaide in the northern central part of South Australia's largest mountain range, the Flinders Ranges. The park covers an area of 912 km², northeast of the small town of Hawker. The Heysen Trail and Mawson Trails pass through the park.
The park's most characteristic landmark is Wilpena Pound, a large, sickle-shaped, natural amphitheatre covering nearly 80 km², containing the range's highest peak, St Mary Peak (1,170 metres). On 12 February 2016 the park was renamed to include the Adnyamathanha word, Ikara, "meeting place", referring to the traditional name for Wilpena Pound.
The park centre at Wilpena Pound is accessible by sealed road from Hawker. Other areas in the park can be reached by un-sealed roads, which are mostly accessible by two-wheel drive vehicles except in bad weather or after heavy rain. There are many lookouts, scenic vistas, small canyons and unusual rock formations located in the park. These include Wilpena Pound, Wilkawillina Gorge, Hucks Lookout, Brachina Gorge, Bunyeroo Gorge and Arkaroo Rock. The park has some stone ruins from early European settlement and Aboriginal rock art sites. A rock formation called the Great Wall of China is located just outside the park. Camping is permitted at many locations...
Read moreFlinders Ranges National Park, located in South Australia, is a breathtaking and culturally significant protected area that showcases the region's unique natural beauty and rich Aboriginal heritage. Covering an area of over 95,000 hectares, the park is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and ancient fossil sites. The park's rugged terrain, which includes majestic mountain ranges, deep gorges, and scenic valleys, has been shaped over millions of years through a combination of tectonic activity, erosion, and weathering. Flinders Ranges National Park is also home to a vast array of flora and fauna, including many rare and endangered species, such as the yellow-footed rock-wallaby and the short-tailed grasswren. The park has great cultural significance, with evidence of Aboriginal occupation dating back over 20,000 years. Visitors can explore the park's many walking trails, scenic lookouts, and cultural sites, including the famous Arkaroo Rock and the Sacred Canyon, which feature ancient rock art and engravings. As one of Australia's most iconic and awe-inspiring national parks, Flinders Ranges National Park offers a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone interested in exploring the country's rich...
Read moreIf you’re looking for a truly surreal and off-grid adventure, Flinders Ranges National Park is the perfect destination. The rugged landscapes, dramatic gorges, and ancient mountain ranges make it feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet.
To fully experience the park, a 4x4 is a must—many of the best campsites and scenic routes are only accessible by high-clearance vehicles. But the effort is worth it. The campsites are well-maintained, offering basic but essential amenities like water and long-drop toilets, ensuring a comfortable stay while keeping the remote wilderness feel intact.
Sunrises and sunsets here are nothing short of magical, with the ranges glowing in shades of orange, pink, and deep red. Wildlife is abundant, from emus and kangaroos to wedge-tailed eagles soaring overhead. Whether you're hiking through Brachina Gorge, exploring Wilpena Pound, or just sitting by your campsite under a sky full of stars, the sense of isolation and tranquility is unmatched.
If you want to disconnect from the world and immerse yourself in raw, untouched beauty, Flinders Ranges National Park is the place to go. Just pack your sense of adventure, and be ready for an...
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