| Cost | Varies by campsite – see Camps App |
|---|---|
| Location | Broken Hill to Cameron Corner, NSW (1,100 km circuit) |
| Pet Friendly | See Camps App |
| Campfires | See Camps App |
| Facilities | Camp kitchens at Milparinka and Tibooburra, caravan parks, bush camping areas |
| Vehicle Access | Sealed and unsealed roads – 4WD recommended for some areas |
| In Camps App | Yes – multiple campsites along the route |
Out past Broken Hill, where horizons stretch forever, you’ll find one of Australia’s most fascinating outback drives – the Sturt’s Steps Touring Route.
Following in the footsteps of explorer Charles Sturt, this 1,100 km journey crosses some of the most remote country in New South Wales. The circuit links Broken Hill, Packsaddle, Milparinka, Tibooburra and Cameron Corner, combining sealed and unsealed roads. You also discover Sturt’s camps at Depot Glen, Lake Pinnaroo and Fort Grey and a surprising amount to see along the way.
Traveller Heather Stevenson shared her fantastic trip and images!
A Route Inspired by Exploration
The outback NSW touring route was originally created by the Milparinka Heritage and Tourism Association in 2008 to help travellers understand the history of Corner Country.
In 2020, the New South Wales Government funded a major expansion of the experience. Along the route you’ll find interpretive shelters at key locations, and each stop explains the landscape, the early expeditions, Aboriginal culture and settlement history. Many also feature silhouette sculptures designed for the perfect outback photo stop.
Milparinka – The Heart of the Route
Milparinka sits at the centre of the Sturt’s Steps journey and has undergone significant improvements to welcome travellers.
New additions include a refurbished waterhole, town masterplan upgrades, renovated Post Office and new interpretation spaces explaining the region’s history. A Night Sky Park promises exceptional stargazing in one of Australia’s darkest regions.
The caravan park now includes a camp kitchen and shelter. Around town, the Milparinka sculptures tell stories of exploration and settlement.
Tibooburra – Outback Character and Colour
Further north, Tibooburra continues the story with its own growing visitor experiences.
Travellers will find a new interpretation centre, a self-guided town walking tour, and upgrades to the Local Aboriginal Land Council campground including an improved camp kitchen. New park amenities make stopping here easier than ever.
Public art adds personality, including a striking cameleer sculpture and a mural celebrating local heritage.
Sculptures, Stories and Photo Stops
The route isn’t just about towns – it’s dotted with creative and meaningful installations across the landscape:
● The Big Bilby, Bandicoot and Quoll sculptures
● Wire sculpture of Charles Sturt and his horse
● Cameleer and camel at Tiboooburra
● Granite slabs at Packsaddle. Stop at the Packsaddle Roadhouse when you are there!
● Sculpture at Fowlers Gap
Each stop connects travellers to the people, wildlife and stories that shaped Corner Country.
Corner Country Pubs
No outback journey is complete without a pub stop. Along the Silver City Highway you can visit the legendary pubs of Milparinka, Tibooburra and Cameron Corner – places where travellers, locals and station workers still swap stories under wide desert skies.
Where to camp?
Camping available in towns and bush camping areas along the route – some right near the sculptures. Check the CAMPS App and guides for locations.
There is loads to see in Broken Hill, too. Including a stargazing campground!
Why Drive Sturt’s Steps?
This route isn’t about ticking off attractions. It’s about understanding distance, landscape and history in a way only the outback can offer.
You’ll drive through country once covered by ancient inland seas, follow expedition routes carved by explorers and camp beneath some of the darkest night skies in Australia.
The Sturt’s Steps Touring Route turns remote travel into a connected experience – part road trip, part history lesson, part adventure.
And once you’ve done it, the vastness of Corner Country tends to stay with you long after the dust washes off the tyres.
More on Sturt’s Steps Touring Route, driving and safety in the outback:
https://visitcornercountry.com.au/about-sturts-steps/touring-route/
https://visitcornercountry.com.au/outback-safer-driving-series/
Download the Camps App for iPhone/iPad or Android
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Sturt’s Steps Touring Route take?
The full 1,100 km circuit from Broken Hill through Packsaddle, Milparinka, Tibooburra and Cameron Corner typically takes 4-7 days depending on how much time you spend exploring the towns, historical sites and camping spots along the way.
Do I need a 4WD for the Sturt’s Steps route?
The route combines sealed and unsealed roads. While some sections are accessible to 2WD vehicles in good conditions, a 4WD is recommended for the full circuit, particularly for accessing bush camping areas and remote historical sites. Check road conditions before travelling.
Where can I camp along the Sturt’s Steps route?
Camping is available in towns including Milparinka (caravan park with camp kitchen) and Tibooburra (Local Aboriginal Land Council campground with camp kitchen). Bush camping areas are also available near some sculpture locations. Check the Camps App for specific locations and current details.
What are the main attractions along Sturt’s Steps?
Key attractions include interpretive shelters at Sturt’s historical camps (Depot Glen, Lake Pinnaroo, Fort Grey), sculptures including Charles Sturt on horseback, the Big Bilby, cameleer and camel, granite slabs at Packsaddle, the Milparinka Night Sky Park, and iconic outback pubs at Milparinka, Tibooburra and Cameron Corner.
Is the Sturt’s Steps route suitable for caravans?
Some sections are suitable for caravans, particularly the sealed highway sections and established caravan parks in Milparinka and Tibooburra. However, some unsealed roads and bush camping areas may not be suitable for larger vans. Check the Camps App for caravan-friendly sites and road conditions.
What supplies should I carry for the Sturt’s Steps journey?
This is remote outback travel. Carry extra fuel, water (minimum 4 litres per person per day), food supplies, spare tyres, recovery gear and a first aid kit. Roadhouses are available at Packsaddle and in the main towns, but distances between services can be significant.
When is the best time to drive Sturt’s Steps?
The cooler months from April to October are ideal for outback travel in this region. Summer temperatures can exceed 40°C. Check road conditions, particularly after rain, as unsealed sections can become impassable.
Can I see stargazing along the route?
Absolutely. The Milparinka Night Sky Park offers exceptional stargazing in one of Australia’s darkest regions. The entire route passes through areas with minimal light pollution, making it perfect for observing the night sky from your campsite.
