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Lake Gairdner National Park

Lake Gairdner National Park — Australia's third-largest salt lake, Lake Gairdner stretches 160km through an ancient desert landscape and is the site of multiple land…

Natural Landmark in South Australia

Natural LandmarkState
Ben ColeWritten by Ben Cole
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About Lake Gairdner National Park

Australia's third-largest salt lake, Lake Gairdner stretches 160km through an ancient desert landscape and is the site of multiple land speed record attempts due to its extraordinarily flat and hard salt surface. The pure white salt crust contrasts dramatically with the surrounding red desert and purple skies at dawn. The lake is part of the nation's largest salt lake system and is an important breeding site for banded stilts.

About

Australia's third-largest salt lake, Lake Gairdner stretches 160km through an ancient desert landscape and is the site of multiple land speed record attempts due to its extraordinarily flat and hard salt surface. The pure white salt crust contrasts dramatically with the surrounding red desert and purple skies at dawn. The lake is part of the nation's largest salt lake system and is an important breeding site for banded stilts.

Warnings

4WD Essential — No Conventional Vehicle Access To Lake SurfaceExtremely Remote — Carry Extra Fuel, Water (10L+/Day/Person), Recovery Gear And PLBSalt Crust Can Be Soft After Rain — Never Drive Onto It Without Checking ConditionsNo Mobile Coverage

Getting There

Map of Lake Gairdner National Park

300km northwest of Port Augusta via Kimba and Wudinna on sealed road, then 60km on gravel via Iron Knob Road and the national park track.

Visitor Tips

  • •The lake is best after good rains that bring in banded stilts to breed — check for conditions. The world land speed record events (Speed Week) are held here approximately every two years.

Quick Facts

At a Glance

The Place

Significance
State

Plan Your Visit

Entry
Paid
Duration
1–2 days
Best Time
April–September (avoid summer heat over 45°C)
Hours
Open 24 hours. Remote salt lake; 4WD essential.

Location

Area
Lake Gairdner
Region
Flinders Ranges
State
South Australia

Highlights

Vast White Salt Crust PanoramaLand Speed Record VenueBanded Stilt Breeding Colony After FloodingComplete Outback IsolationExceptional Sunrises

Activities

4WD TouringPhotographyBird Watching (Banded Stilts, Pelicans)Land Speed Record Events (Biennial)

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

Basic Camping At Lake Gairdner CampgroundPit ToiletsNo Other Facilities

Nearby

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