Wilpena Pound Resort: Surround Yourself in the Flinders Ranges

Wilpena Pound Campground provides a unique camping experience in the heart of the Ikara-Flinders Ranges. Surrounded by the ancient, rust-coloured cliffs of Wilpena Pound, this campground offers visitors an opportunity to connect with nature, explore Aboriginal culture, and embark on unforgettable outback adventures.  

Our Experience

Wilpena Pound Campground offers an unparalleled sense of place, starting with the Welcome to Country ceremony, which runs every day from March to November at 4.30 pm and from December to February at 6 pm near reception on the lawns.

The imposing presence of the Pound, a natural amphitheatre carved over millennia, creates an atmosphere of awe and tranquillity. The campground itself is thoughtfully designed to blend into the landscape, with spacious sites some offering privacy and stunning views, others sites are just large open clearings where campers organise themselves.

During our visit, the resort was busy due to the easter weekend, which meant finding a site was a little tricky, but not impossible. We found the facilities to be clean and well-maintained, and the staff were friendly and helpful, although not present around the grounds. This meant that despite a fire ban people were still having large open fires and there was a lot of loud music until the crowds subsided on the Sunday. It’s worth mentioning that, none of this actually caused any issue for us.

Walking Around Wilpena Pound Resort

Wilpena Pound is actually on a few hiking and walking routes that pass through the Flinders Ranges, on our first morning we headed up Mount Ohlssen-Bagge, which offers an initially easy walk through the low-lying forests before becoming more challenging as you head up to the 923m summit. The effort is definitely worth it, the views around the surrounding mountain ranges are amazing.

When you get back, grab your swimmers and head to the pool to cool off, the Resort has a pool, restaurant and Bar area, which is nice after a hard day exploring. They also have an IGA Xpress, should you need basic supermarket supplies, like ice cream after your hard hike.

Wilpena Pound Resort Campground – Gallery

Things to Do in the Area

• Hiking: Explore the numerous trails that crisscross the national park, ranging from gentle walks to challenging climbs. Ascend to Wangara Lookout for panoramic views, or visit Hills Homestead for a glimpse into the region’s pastoral history.  
• Geological Wonders: Venture into Brachina Gorge and Bunyeroo Gorge to witness the dramatic geological formations that define the Flinders Ranges. Discover ancient Aboriginal rock art sites and be on the lookout for yellow-footed rock wallabies.
• Scenic Flights: Take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of Wilpena Pound and the surrounding ranges. Scenic flights offer a unique perspective on the vastness and complexity of this ancient landscape.  
• Aboriginal Culture: Engage with the Adnyamathanha people, the traditional custodians of this land, through guided tours and cultural experiences. Gain insights into their deep connection to the land, their Dreamtime stories, and their unique cultural heritage.  
• 4WD Touring: For experienced 4WD enthusiasts, the Flinders Ranges offers a network of challenging tracks that lead to remote and spectacular locations. Ensure you have the appropriate vehicle and permits before embarking on these adventures.
• Willow Springs SkyTrek: The 4WD experience that the Ikara-Flinders Ranges is famous for. This 90km track on a private station is the one thing I would say no one should miss.

Wilpena Pound is a destination that will leave a lasting impression.