Innamincka Regional Reserve

Innamincka Regional Reserve, a vast protected area in the far north-east of South Australia, is a place of stark beauty and profound stillness. Named after the nearby Innamincka town, this reserve preserves the rugged landscapes of the Strzelecki Desert and the Cooper Creek floodplains. It's a destination for those seeking true outback solitude, rich in Indigenous history and pioneering lore, including the tragic story of explorers Burke and Wills. Here, the red earth, gibber plains, and ancient river red gums create a landscape that feels both timeless and fragile.

Highlights & What to See

• Burke and Wills Dig Tree – A gnarled river red gum on Cooper Creek, this historic site marks the ill-fated explorers' camp. Interpretive signs tell the haunting story of their journey.
• Innamincka Town – A tiny outpost with a historic pub, the Innamincka Hotel, offering cold beer, hearty meals, and a chance to chat with locals and travellers.
• Cooper Creek – When water flows, this ephemeral river transforms the desert. Canoeing or kayaking along its reaches is a surreal experience; even dry, the creek bed is a scenic walk.
• Strzelecki Desert – Endless red sand dunes and salt lakes. A drive along the Strzelecki Track offers classic outback scenery and a sense of isolation.
• Mound Springs – Delicate, vegetated springs rising from the Great Artesian Basin, these are vital water sources and home to unique aquatic life. The most accessible is near the reserve boundary.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least two full days to explore the reserve's highlights. Most visitors arrive via the Strzelecki Track from Lyndhurst or the Birdsville Track from Marree. Spend the first day visiting the Dig Tree and exploring Cooper Creek, then a second day driving the Strzelecki Track or relaxing at Innamincka. The reserve is remote, so factor in travel time and ensure your vehicle is well-prepared for unsealed roads.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Coongie Lakes – A wetland system of international importance, part of the larger Coongie Lakes Ramsar site, offering birdwatching and canoeing.
• Mungerannie Hotel – A classic outback pub on the Birdsville Track, known for its friendly atmosphere and cold beer.
• Birdsville – Famous for the Birdsville Hotel and the annual Birdsville Races, this outback town is a great stop on a loop trip.
• Witjira National Park – Home to the spectacular Dalhousie Springs, a series of thermal springs perfect for a soak.

Please check official sources for current details.