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The Breakaways Conservation Reserve

The Breakaways Conservation Reserve — A dramatic landscape of flat-topped mesas and eroded escarpments rising from an ancient seabed, located 30km north of [Coober Pedy](/au/places/sa/coober-pedy).

Natural Landmark in South Australia

Ben ColeWritten by Ben Cole

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About The Breakaways Conservation Reserve

A dramatic landscape of flat-topped mesas and eroded escarpments rising from an ancient seabed, located 30km north of [Coober Pedy](/au/places/sa/coober-pedy). The Breakaways are remnants of a vast plateau that once covered the region 70 million years ago, and their stratified walls display vivid bands of white, ochre, black, and red. The area has served as a film location for movies including Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome.

About

A dramatic landscape of flat-topped mesas and eroded escarpments rising from an ancient seabed, located 30km north of [Coober Pedy](/au/places/sa/coober-pedy). The Breakaways are remnants of a vast plateau that once covered the region 70 million years ago, and their stratified walls display vivid bands of white, ochre, black, and red. The area has served as a film location for movies including Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome.

Warnings

No Water Or Facilities — Carry At Least 3L Per PersonDirt Road May Be Impassable After RainAccess Pass Required — Fines Apply Without ItExtreme Heat In Summer

Getting There

Map of The Breakaways Conservation Reserve

30km north of Coober Pedy on the Stuart Highway, then via Breakaways Road. Purchase a vehicle access pass from the Coober Pedy Visitor Centre before going.

Visitor Tips

  • Combine with a sunrise outing — leave Coober Pedy before dawn for the best light. The Dog Fence (Dingo Fence) runs through the reserve and is worth seeing.

Quick Facts

At a Glance

The Place

Significance
State

Plan Your Visit

Entry
Paid
Duration
Half day
Best Time
April–October; sunrise for best colours
Hours
Open 24 hours.

Good to Know

Dog Friendly

Highlights

Flat-Topped Mesa FormationsLayered Rock ColoursMoon Plain (Black Gibber Desert)The Castle (Prominent Mesa)Film History (Mad Max Locations)

Activities

PhotographyScenic DrivingShort WalksBird Watching

Features

Not available:Wheelchair Accessible
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 Lookout At Moon PlainNo Other Facilities — Carry All Supplies