Munga Thirri National Park

Munga Thirri National Park, formerly known as Simpson Desert National Park, is a vast and remote wilderness in far southwestern Queensland. This park protects the northern reaches of the Simpson Desert, one of Australia’s most iconic red sand dune deserts. It’s a place of immense silence, star-filled skies, and raw natural beauty. For those with a spirit of adventure, driving the famous French Line or the QAA Line through the park offers an unforgettable outback experience. The park is also rich in Indigenous heritage, with the Wangkamadla people being the traditional custodians. Come prepared for extreme conditions and a profound sense of isolation.

Highlights & What to See

• Simpson Desert sand dunes: Drive the French Line or QAA Line to experience the longest parallel sand dunes in the world, with some reaching 40 metres high.
• Big Red: The park’s most famous dune, a 40-metre-high red sand dune that offers panoramic views and a challenging climb.
• Poeppel Corner: The remote intersection of Queensland, South Australia and the Northern Territory, marked by a simple surveyor’s post.
• Eyre Creek: A seasonal creek that supports birdlife and provides a contrast to the surrounding desert.
• Stargazing: With zero light pollution, the night sky here is breathtaking – the Milky Way stretches from horizon to horizon.
• Desert wildlife: Spot red kangaroos, dingoes, and a variety of reptiles and birds adapted to the harsh environment.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers spend 3 to 5 days crossing the park along the French Line or QAA Line, typically as part of a longer outback circuit. This allows time to camp for two or three nights, climb the major dunes, and enjoy the solitude. The park is only accessible in winter (May to September) due to extreme summer heat; check conditions carefully. A high-clearance 4WD with recovery gear is essential, and you must carry ample fuel, water and supplies.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Birdsville: Iconic outback town (about 2.5 hours north) famous for the Birdsville Hotel and the annual Birdsville Races; a good supply point.
• Innamincka: Historic town in South Australia (about 3 hours west) on the Cooper Creek, with the Innamincka Trading Post and nearby Coongie Lakes wetlands.
• Chamber’s Pillar Historical Reserve: A striking sandstone pillar (about 4 hours south) that served as a landmark for early explorers.
• Munga-Thirri–Simpson Desert Conservation Park (SA): The South Australian section of the Simpson Desert, adjacent to the national park, offering similar landscapes and 4WD tracks.
• Lake Eyre (Kati Thanda): Australia’s largest salt lake (about 5 hours south-west), a spectacular sight when flooded; best viewed from a scenic flight.

Please check official sources for current details.