TRAVEL PLANNER

CAMPING AND FEES ALL tracks in the vicinity including Strzelecki Desert, Sturt National Park, Lake Eyre, Innamincka Regional Reserve and many others including the Flinders Ranges all require specialaccess permits. Camping in the Innamincka Reserve requires a Desert Parks Pass, which you can purchase at the reserve office in Innamincka. The desert passes are valid for 12 months and provide detailed information including maps of the area. Passes can also be purchased at RAA offices. A Desert Parks Pass costs $160, but discounts are available for renewals.

ROAD CONDITIONS THE Strzelecki Track can often be impassable after heavy downpours. It’s also worth noting that winter nights can fall below freezing. Overall, the Strzelecki Track is maintained mainly for the large road trains that service the Gidgealpa and Moomba oil and natural gas fields.

DRIVING TIPS THE track from Arkaroola to the Strzelecki Track is mostly loose surface with some challenging driving, particularly through the dry creeks. Infrequent rain not only makes the roads slippery and treacherous, but can also cause flash floods which could leave you stranded for weeks at a time. It’s always advisable to check local conditions before venturing onto outback roads. FUEL & SUPPLIES FUEL up at Lyndhurst, Leigh Creek or Innamincka. Fuel and basic supplies are available in Arkaroola and some supplies including fuel can be purchased at Cameron Corner. Take reasonable precautions when travelling in this region. Always have plenty of food, fuel, spare tyres and water on board with you. The weather is changeable out here and can go from extreme heat in the day to freezing at night, so make sure you have appropriate clothing to cope with conditions.

BEST TIME TO VISIT THE cooler months are definitely the best time to visit, although always check local conditions as this area can be impassable especially after heavy rains. Maximum summer temperatures can reach 50°C, so you won’t find many people living in this harsh environment – only three per cent of the country’s population call it home.

CONTACTS Phone: 08 8204 1910 Website: www.environment.sa.gov.au Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary - www.arkaroola.com.au The Corner Store - Ph: 08 8091 3872 The Innamincka Hotel - PH: 08 – 8675 9901