If you’re dreaming about rugged red ranges, ancient landscapes, and campfires under a sky full of stars, it’s time to take your Tommy Camper on an adventure of a lifetime and head to the Flinders Ranges.
This month, we’re kicking off our Campground of the month series with one of our absolute favourites: Rawnsley Park Station. Nestled on the southern edge of the Flinders Ranges National Park, this spot will give you a taste of the real outback. We can see why it’s a top choice among Tommy owners.
You’ll find wide-open bush campsites with million-dollar views. And with some epic 4WD tracks and fun hikes nearby, Rawnsley Park Station is easily one of the best base camps you’ll find in the Flinders. You get that feeling of being in the middle of nowhere, but with a hot shower waiting for you at the end of the day.
- Location: Flinders Ranges, SA
- Price: From $34 per night (2 adults)
- Facilities: Toilets, showers, laundry, powered and unpowered sites, swimming pool, 4WD tracks
- Suitable For: Tommy Campers S4X, S6X and S8X
Why it’s perfect for a tommy camper
When we say it’s Tommy-approved, we mean it. Rawnsley Park Station has a mix of bush campsites and powered sites. The unpowered bush campsites are ideal for your Tommy Camper. The views are absolutely mind-blowing,
As soon as you enter the bush campground, it goes for another 4km. There’s plenty of room to spread out, so you won’t be crammed in next to other campers. There are toilets every 50 meters, but if you want to be close to the showers, you’ll have to setup at the beginning of the bush campground.
Camp fees start at $34 per night for two people. Extra adults are $12 per night, and kids are just $6. Bookings can be made easily via their website, and there’s a range of accommodation options if you’re travelling with friends or family who aren’t camping.
Why tommy owners love it here
We’ve spoken to a few fellow Tommy owners who’ve pulled in here for a night and ended up staying for a week.
Here’s why:
Things to do
You could easily sit at camp with a cold drink and enjoy the views. But if you’re up for a bit of exploring, there are a few things you can do:
1. Explore Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park
Just a short drive from Rawnsley Park Station, Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park is a must-see. Bunyeroo Scenic Drive is a must-see, especially Razorback Lookout, which is worth a stop to take a photo of your Tommy in the wild.
If you’re heading to Flinders Ranges, take a look at this guide to the 6 Most Scenic Drives in Flinders Ranges. It’s written by Tommy Camper Owners Wim & Sam, who are travelling around Australia in their LandCruiser 79 Series Dual Cab with a custom Tommy Camper S6X.
2. Tackle the Arkapena 4WD Track
If you’re feeling adventurous, Rawnsley Park Station has its own private 4WD track, the Arkapena track is a fun 4WD track that you can do with your Tommy on the back. It’s not extreme, but challenging enough. It has some jaw-dropping lookouts and a few rocky sections to keep things interesting. You’ll need to book the track at the station office. They’ll give you a map and a key.
Tommy Tip: Lower your tyre pressure before hitting the track, and pack recovery gear just in case.
3. Hike the Arkaroo Rock
Just off the main road, about 15 minutes from Rawnsley Park Station, the Arkaroo Rock Hike is a 3 km return hike that leads you to ancient Adnyamathanha rock art. It’s a fun trail, best done in the early morning or late afternoon when the light makes the rock art glow.
4. Watch the sunset from the Station Lookout
If you don’t feel like driving anywhere, you don’t need to. There’s a short walk from the campground to a lookout point where you can watch the sunset hitting the ranges. It’s a magic spot.
Before you go
- Fuel up in Hawker: it’s the last main stop before the campground.
- Groceries: the last main stop to stock up on basics is Port Augusta when travelling from the south.
- Permits: buy your parks pass (vehicle entry pass) ahead of time via the national parks and wildlife website.
There’s honestly no better way to experience the magic of the Flinders Ranges than from the back of your Tommy Camper. And Rawnsley Park Station has everything we love in a base camp. It’s simple, scenic and set up for adventure.
If you’re planning a South Australia road trip, make sure this one’s marked on your map. And if you have any questions about a Tommy Camper, get in touch with our team!
Happy Camping!
After more inspiration?
Discover more Campground of the Month locations, carefully selected and tested by Tommy Campers Owners.
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