Mount Dare Station

Mount Dare Station is a remote outback settlement and working cattle station in the far north of South Australia, just a stone's throw from the Northern Territory border. It's the last outpost of civilisation before the vast Simpson Desert, and its iconic pub, fuel stop, and campground make it an essential waypoint for adventurous travellers crossing the desert or exploring the remote Witjira National Park. This is the real outback — red dirt, endless horizons, and the kind of hospitality that only comes from being utterly isolated.

Highlights & What to See

• The Mount Dare Hotel: A legendary outback pub serving cold beer, hearty meals, and stories from the track. It's a must-stop for a counter meal and a chat with fellow travellers.
• Witjira National Park: Just south of the station, this park protects the stunning Dalhousie Springs — a series of natural artesian pools perfect for a soak under the desert sky. The springs are a surprising oasis teeming with birdlife.
• Simpson Desert crossing: Mount Dare is the traditional starting (or finishing) point for the epic Simpson Desert crossing via the French Line or Rig Road. Even if you're not tackling the full crossing, the dunes and gibber plains nearby are breathtaking.
• Historic homestead ruins: Explore the remnants of the original Mount Dare homestead, which offer a glimpse into the tough pioneer life of the 1870s.
• Birdwatching & wildlife: Keep an eye out for red kangaroos, emus, wedge-tailed eagles, and if you're lucky, the rare night parrot that has been spotted in the area.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers stop at Mount Dare for one night — enough to refuel, enjoy a meal at the pub, and soak in the Dalhousie Springs. If you're planning a Simpson Desert crossing, budget at least two nights here to prepare your vehicle and rest before the challenging dunes ahead. For a relaxed visit, combine a night at the station with a day exploring Witjira National Park.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dalhousie Springs — a short drive south, these thermal springs are the main attraction of Witjira National Park and perfect for a swim.
• Oodnadatta Track — this historic outback road passes through towns like Oodnadatta and Marree, offering access to the iconic Lake Eyre region.
• Coober Pedy — about 400 km west, this opal-mining town is famous for its underground homes and lunar-like landscape.
• Alice Springs — 600 km north, the red centre's hub offers the West MacDonnell Ranges and a gateway to Uluru.
• Innamincka — 250 km east, another remote outpost on the Cooper Creek, known for its historic pub and the Burke and Wills Dig Tree.

Please check official sources for current details.