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Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park

Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park — Australia's largest lake when full, Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre sits 15m below sea level and is the lowest natural point on the continent.

Natural Landmark in South Australia

Natural LandmarkNational
Ben ColeWritten by Ben Cole
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About Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park

Australia's largest lake when full, Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre sits 15m below sea level and is the lowest natural point on the continent. For most of its existence it is a vast shimmering salt flat, but after rare flooding events (roughly every 8–10 years) it fills with water, triggering an extraordinary explosion of birdlife — pelicans, gulls, and waders arrive in their millions. The lake is deeply sacred to the Arabana people.

About

Australia's largest lake when full, Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre sits 15m below sea level and is the lowest natural point on the continent. For most of its existence it is a vast shimmering salt flat, but after rare flooding events (roughly every 8–10 years) it fills with water, triggering an extraordinary explosion of birdlife — pelicans, gulls, and waders arrive in their millions. The lake is deeply sacred to the Arabana people.

Warnings

No Ground-Level Public Access To The Main Lake Body — Scenic Flights Are The Primary Way To See ItExtreme Remote Location — Carry Extra Fuel, Water (10L/Person/Day), Food, And A PLBOodnadatta Track Requires A High-Clearance 4WD And Can Close After RainNo Mobile Coverage

Getting There

Map of Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park

William Creek is 1,000km north of Adelaide via Coober Pedy and the Oodnadatta Track, or via Lyndhurst. Scenic flights depart from William Creek airstrip.

Visitor Tips

  • •Check BOM rainfall data for Cooper Creek catchment — flooding events make the lake extraordinary. William Creek Hotel is a genuine outback pub and the social hub of the region.

Quick Facts

At a Glance

The Place

Significance
National

Plan Your Visit

Entry
Paid
Duration
1–2 days (including scenic flight)
Best Time
April–September; after flood years (watch for news of flooding events) for birds
Hours
Open 24 hours. Scenic flights available seasonally.

Location

Area
Anna Creek
Region
Flinders Ranges
State
South Australia

Highlights

Australia'S Lowest Point And Largest LakeSalt Crystal FormationsMass Bird Breeding Events After FloodingArabana Cultural SignificanceOodnadatta Track Adventure Drive

Activities

Scenic Flights4WD Driving On The Oodnadatta TrackBird Watching After FloodsPhotographyCultural Learning

Features

Not available:Wheelchair Accessible
Not available:Dog Friendly
Not available:Pram/Stroller Friendly
Not available:Camping Available
Not available:Tours Available
Not available:Guided Walks
Not available:Swimming Allowed
Not available:Lockers Available

Facilities

William Creek Hotel (Remote Pub/Accommodation)Marree Township (Basic Services)Scenic Flight OperatorsLimited Camping

Nearby

Nearby