Flinders Ranges and Outback

The Outback is a bloody good host, so make sure you’re a bloody good guest.

Rubbish disposal can be a really big job in remote locations and bins may be few and far between along your route.

Come prepared so you can follow tread lightly principles. We all need to do our part to look after the beautiful Outback and keep it free of rubbish for years to come.

What can I do with my rubbish?

• Please keep your rubbish with you until you can dispose of it properly in a bin or disposal facility
• Always clean up your campsite or rest stop when you leave, and we'd love it if you could take an extra piece if you see any around
• Use town bins when you need to, but we kindly ask that you try to minimise the impact on waste facilities in small, remote communities.

Before You Travel

• Pack a bag or sealable container in the car to store rubbish between access to bins/waste disposal facilities
• Try to rely on items that will minimise the rubbish you produce during your trip. Carry reusable cutlery instead of using disposal cutlery, and store food in containers instead of using single-use plastic wrap.

Want to know what's worse than drop bears?

You know the feeling of dread when you find a massive spider in the house? Well, that’s how it feels to discover piles of human waste by the side of the road, left behind by travellers who didn’t plan their toilet stops properly.

Now imagine the massive spider has wings, and it can catch a breeze and fly towards you.

That’s what happens to the dirty toilet paper.

Don't be one of those travellers that releases a plague of flying poo spiders in our beautiful outback.

What to do if you can't find a public toilet

1. Dig a deep hole
2. Do what you need to do
3. Burn your toilet paper in the hole
4. Fill in the hole

Before You Go

Your route is likely have long distances between public toilets.

• Pack a shovel, toilet paper and matches
• When possible, check the distance between public amenities and plan accordingly
• Use designated dump points for RV and caravan waste (check Resources section for a list).

There are plenty of thrills to have on our incredible 4WD tracks and remote camping sites, and it feels bloody good to run a bit wild out here.

But just because it feels isolated, it doesn’t mean there are no rules at all. 

Driving off track can be dangerous to your vehicle and yourself, and causes damage to fragile natural environments and irreplaceable cultural sites.  

Help us look after our wild and untouched locations so they are in great condition for your next trip.

Can I drive or camp here?

• Only drive or camp in locations when you have researched permission requirements in advance, and obtained them if needed
• Many remote areas may look uninhabited but are actually private property. It may be extremely unsafe to livestock, landowners and yourself if you drive or camp without prior permission
• Always stick to designated tracks and please respect all signs and directions
• Keep in mind that it is an offence to drive off established tracks.

Before You Go

• Research site requirements in advance and obtain prior permission by the land manager if necessary
• Ensure you have prepared your vehicle, communications, and a plan in case of emergency

A safe trip is a good trip!

As long as you come prepared, you will have an unforgettable time in the South Australian Outback for all the right reasons.

• Be responsible for your own safety. Be proactive with road and weather checks and listen to the local advice regarding conditions
• Always pack some non-perishable food items and 3-4 days worth of drinking water. In mild weather, each person will need 6 litres of water per day. In extreme weather, carry 10 litres of water per person per day
• Phone and internet access is irregular. Carry a satellite phone or UHF radio
• Record important contacts on paper as well as on your devices
• Service and prepare your vehicle well before you depart on your road trip.

Check the Resources section to find emergency contacts, vehicle preparation checklists, links to road and weather reports and more.