Coongie Lakes National Park

In the remote far north-east of South Australia, Coongie Lakes National Park is a shimmering wetland wonderland that feels utterly out of place in the arid outback. This RAMSAR-listed oasis, fed by the Cooper Creek system, bursts with birdlife and lush vegetation after rare floods, offering a starkly beautiful contrast to the surrounding red dunes and gibber plains. It’s a place for serious off-road adventurers and nature lovers who crave true solitude.

Highlights & What to See

• Wetland birdwatching: Spot pelicans, brolgas, black swans and countless waterbirds around the lakes – bring binoculars and a bird guide.
• Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre connection: When water flows, the lakes link to Lake Eyre; the vast, salt-encrusted expanse is an unforgettable sight from the air or after rain.
• Innamincka Regional Reserve: Just east, explore the historic Burke & Wills Dig Tree and the Cooper Creek crossing – a poignant slice of exploration history.
• Desert landscapes: Drive the Strzelecki Track or Birdsville Track for epic outback scenery – red sandhills, stony deserts and endless horizons.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give yourself at least two full days to explore the park and its surrounds. The drive from Innamincka to the lakes is slow and sandy – high-clearance 4WD is essential. Spend one day birdwatching and walking near the main waterholes, and a second day for a scenic flight over Lake Eyre (bookable from Innamincka or Birdsville) or a drive to the Dig Tree. The best time is after good rains (usually winter/spring), but the park is accessible year-round for experienced outback travellers.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Innamincka – remote outpost with a pub, fuel and the historic Dig Tree site
• Birdsville – famous for the Birdsville Hotel and the Big Red Bash, on the edge of the Simpson Desert
• Mungerannie Hotel – iconic Birdsville Track stop with cold beer and a quirky museum
• Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre National Park – vast salt lake, best seen by scenic flight
• Strzelecki Track – historic route linking Lyndhurst to Innamincka, with remote camping and desert scenery

Please check official sources for current details.