Wilpena Pound Resort (Discovery Resorts)

Wilpena Pound Resort sits at the entrance to one of Australia’s most extraordinary natural formations, an 800-million-year-old mountain amphitheatre rising from the ancient Flinders Ranges. Operated by Discovery Resorts and co-managed with the Adnyamathanha Traditional Owners, this is the only accommodation located inside Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. The sprawling 50-hectare campground offers 44 powered sites and over 300 unpowered bush campsites spread beneath towering river red gums and native pines, with kangaroos and emus grazing freely through the grounds and wedge-tailed eagles circling overhead.

Facilities are comprehensive for such a remote location. Three amenities blocks provide toilets, hot showers and laundry facilities, while campground guests have full access to the resort swimming pool, the Ikara Lounge Bar and Bistro, and the onsite IGA Xpress general store selling groceries, fuel, firewood and basic supplies. A Visitor Information Centre handles bookings for scenic flights over the Pound, Adnyamathanha cultural walking tours, and 4WD adventures through Brachina Gorge. The camp kitchen has BBQs, a fridge and microwave, though no stovetop cooking facilities.

The Flinders Ranges are best visited between April and October when temperatures are milder and wildflowers blanket the plains. The iconic St Mary Peak hike (the highest point of Wilpena Pound) departs from nearby, along with walks through Brachina and Bunyeroo gorges. Unpowered sites start from around $24 per couple per night, with powered sites from $35. Park entry fees apply separately. Mobile reception is poor throughout the campground, and free Wi-Fi is limited to the resort reception area. Stock up on fresh provisions before arriving, as the onsite store carries limited supplies at remote pricing.