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Simpson Desert Conservation Park

Winter rains can cover the desert in a veritable carpet of wildflowers

Winter rains can cover the desert in a veritable carpet of wildflowers

Located within the driest region of the Australian continent, the Simpson Desert is one of the world's best examples of dunal desert.

The sand dunes stretch over hundreds of kilometres - the towering crests and vast, flat valleys (or swales) between them stretching endlessly towards the horizon. The sheer magnitude of the endless landscape inspires a wide range of emotions in visitors-some are overwhelmed by the seeming repetitiveness of the desert, while others marvel at the ever-changing environment.

The Simpson Desert lies across the corners of three States - South Australia, Queensland and the Northern Territory, with the South Australian section divided into 3 protected areas, Simpson Desert Conservation Park, Simpson Desert Regional Reserve and Witjira National Park.

Competent four-wheel explorers up to the challenge will experience the spectacular landscape including deep-red dunes, salt-crusted lakes, vast stretches of grasslands, dense scrubland and even tall stands of hakea and gidgee, giving the illusion of lush forest.

Access

Simpson Desert parks in South Australia and Queensland are CLOSED in summer from 1 December to 15 March.