If you’re travelling the Oodnadatta Track in South Australia, you can look forward to gem free camps right beside the heritage Ghan Railway.
Along the way, here are two free camps you can check out. We’ve also included more camps and things to see and do along the track.
Algebuckina Bridge
Algebuckina Bridge, magic! It is waterside with old Ghan railway bridge views. Fly nets are a great idea here.
Nearby, you’ll also find Algebuckina waterhole, however there was a rough access track when we visited.
This is probably the most iconic free camp on the Oodnadatta Track.
Why it is so popular:
- Australia’s longest heritage railway bridge
- Camp beside the Neales River
- Large shady river gums
- Waterhole when conditions allow
- Fishing and birdlife
- Historic Ghan railway atmosphere
For good reason, many travellers consider Algebuckina one of the best outback free camps in Australia.
Beresford Railway Siding
Approximately 70 km north of Marree this state heritage site has excellent camping beside the ruins, old infrastructure. Plus, Heatley walked up to the bore and loved this site!
Highlights:
- Old Ghan railway ruins
- Historic bridge and station remains
- Large open camping area
- Sunset and sunrise photography
- Excellent stargazing
- Plenty of room for big rigs
The ruins and old bridge make it one of the most photographed stops along the route.
The Oodnadatta Track
The Oodnadatta Track is a roughly 615 km unsealed outback adventure. It runs from Marree to Marla in the far north of South Australia. What makes it so special is that it traces the old Ghan railway line and the historic Overland Telegraph route. It skirts Kati Thanda – Lake Eyre and a string of natural artesian springs – with many more free camps – along the way.
It follows an ancient Aboriginal trade route, from spring to spring, the first interior crossing by explorer John McDouall Stuart. It is also where massive pastoral stations were developed by Sidney Kidman. All thanks to the Great Artesian Basin, below.
Other very popular camps include:
- Coward Springs – the artesian spa is one of a kind and you can buy yummy fresh dates and more!
- Peake Telegraph Station area
- Oodnadatta Pink Roadhouse campground
- William Creek campground
- Marree Hotel campground
Also add to your watchlist:
- Kati Thanda – Lake Eyre Lookout (and you can take a scenic flight!)
- Mutonia Sculpture Park
- Natural Springs and Mounds
- Marree Man
- And so much more!
Note that Curdimurka Railway Siding has been closed on occasion (like when we visited). The Oodnadatta Track was part of our Ultimate Outback Pub route – check it out here.
Oodnadatta Track Free Camps FAQs
Can you camp for free on the Oodnadatta Track?
Yes, and the free camps are some of the best in the outback. Algebuckina Bridge and Beresford Railway Siding are two cracking gem free camps right beside the heritage Ghan railway, with no fees and loads of space.
What is the best free camp on the Oodnadatta Track?
Algebuckina Bridge is the standout. It is the most iconic free camp on the track, sitting waterside beside Australia’s longest heritage railway bridge with big shady river gums along the Neales River. Many travellers rate it one of the best outback free camps in Australia.
Where is Beresford Railway Siding?
Beresford Railway Siding is about 70 km north of Marree. It is a state heritage site with a large open camping area beside old Ghan railway ruins, a historic bridge and station remains. Plenty of room for big rigs, and brilliant for sunrise, sunset and stargazing.
Do you need a 4WD for the Oodnadatta Track?
The Oodnadatta Track is an unsealed outback road, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended and a 4WD is the safer choice, especially towing. Conditions change quickly with rain, side tracks can be rough, and you should always check current road conditions before you set off.
Are there toilets or facilities at these free camps?
These are basic free camps, so come self-contained and carry everything in and out, including your own water and rubbish bags. That self-sufficiency is part of the appeal. Bring fly nets too, they make a world of difference at Algebuckina.
What else is there to see along the Oodnadatta Track?
Loads. Add Coward Springs and its one of a kind artesian spa, the Peake Telegraph Station area, Mutonia Sculpture Park, the natural springs and mounds, the Marree Man and the Kati Thanda – Lake Eyre Lookout, where you can take a scenic flight over the lake.
Is there water at Algebuckina Bridge?
There can be. Algebuckina sits beside the Neales River with a waterhole when conditions allow, and travellers enjoy the fishing and birdlife. Water levels depend on recent rain, so treat it as a bonus rather than a sure thing, and never rely on it for drinking water.
When is the best time to drive the Oodnadatta Track?
The cooler months from about April to September are the most comfortable for outback travel in South Australia. Summer brings extreme heat, and rain can close the track at any time of year, so always check conditions before you go.
Is Curdimurka Railway Siding open?
Curdimurka Railway Siding has been closed on occasion, including when we visited, so don’t bank on it. Always have a backup camp in mind along this stretch.
Where can I find these camps?
Find these sites and hundreds more along the Oodnadatta Track in the Camps Australia Wide app, Camps 13 or Camps Pendium 2, so you can plan your free and low-cost stops as you go.
Download the CAMPS Australia Wide App for iPhone/iPad or Android
