About Painted Desert
The Painted Desert is a striking natural landscape in the Arckaringa Hills of South Australia's Far North, about 150 km south-west of Oodnadatta and north-west of Coober Pedy. Renowned for vividly coloured mesas, hills and gullies in shades of red, orange, yellow and white, it was formed by erosion of ancient sandstone and siltstone. The remote, arid scenery offers expansive views and is accessed via unsealed 4WD tracks through pastoral station land.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a remote arid landscape of eroded mesas, low hills and gullies with distinct bands of red, orange, yellow and white rock. The area is open and treeless with expansive views, best appreciated from elevated lookouts and walking among the formations. There are no built structures or visitor centres at the site itself. Access is via unsealed station tracks requiring a high-clearance 4WD, and the experience is focused on sightseeing, photography and short walks on natural surfaces.
Key highlights
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Vividly coloured mesas and hills in red, orange, yellow and white tones
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Expansive views over the Arckaringa Hills and surrounding desert plains
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Geological formations of eroded sandstone and siltstone
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Photography opportunities especially in early morning and late afternoon light
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Remote outback setting accessible via 4WD station tracks
History of Painted Desert
The landforms are the eroded remnants of an ancient inland sea bed dating back around 80 million years. Weathering and erosion of sandstone, siltstone and shale have exposed colourful layers. The area lies within the Arckaringa Basin and has been used for pastoralism since the late 19th century as part of Arckaringa Station.
Culture & Context
The Painted Desert lies on the traditional lands of the Arabana people. The broader Far North region holds cultural significance for Aboriginal communities, with the landscape forming part of Country and associated stories and heritage.
Route
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