William Creek

William Creek is a tiny, dusty outpost on the edge of the South Australian outback, famous as the gateway to the legendary Oodnadatta Track and the remote beauty of Lake Eyre. With a population of fewer than a dozen, this historic settlement offers a genuine taste of outback life, complete with a classic pub, a historic railway siding, and access to some of Australia's most dramatic desert landscapes. It's a must-stop for adventurous travellers on a self-drive journey through the Red Centre.

Highlights & What to See

• William Creek Hotel: The heart of the community, this iconic outback pub is covered in memorabilia and offers cold beer, hearty meals, and a chance to swap stories with fellow travellers.
• Lake Eyre Scenic Flights: William Creek is the best base for a flight over Lake Eyre, Australia's largest salt lake. The aerial views of the vast, shimmering white expanse are unforgettable, especially after rare rains when it transforms into a pink-hued bird haven.
• Oodnadatta Track: This historic 620-kilometre dirt road runs from Marree to Marla, passing through William Creek. It's a classic outback drive, following the route of the old Ghan railway and the Overland Telegraph Line, with ruins and railway sidings to explore.
• Historic Railway Siding: The old Ghan railway siding at William Creek is a photogenic relic, with a few remaining buildings and interpretive signs that tell the story of the line that once connected Adelaide to Alice Springs.
• Dog Fence and Outback Stations: Drive a short distance to see the famous Dog Fence, the longest fence in the world, and get a sense of the vast cattle stations that dot the region.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers stop for a night at the hotel or the adjacent caravan park, allowing time for an afternoon flight over Lake Eyre and a morning exploring the track. If you're driving the Oodnadatta Track, a single overnight stay is sufficient, but an extra day lets you take a scenic flight or simply soak up the remote atmosphere.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coober Pedy – 160 km south, famous for its opal mines and underground homes.
• Lake Eyre (Kati Thanda) – accessible by flight or 4WD from William Creek; the lake's vast salt flats are a surreal sight.
• Oodnadatta – a tiny settlement 100 km west, with the famous Pink Roadhouse and the historic Oodnadatta Track.
• Marree – 200 km southeast, the start of the Oodnadatta Track and home to the Marree Man geoglyph.
• Flinders Ranges – about 400 km south, offering dramatic mountain scenery and wildlife, ideal for a longer outback itinerary.

Please check official sources for current details.