Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve
Heat warning
Temperatures across the Northern Territory can be very hot between October and April.
It can exceed 40 degrees Celsius in some locations. High humidity in the Top End can also make you tire easily.
Check forecast temperatures before you visit. Find out how to prepare and stay safe in the heat.
Rainbow Valley has scenic sandstone bluffs and cliffs that are a photographer's delight.
These are most impressive in the soft light of the morning or afternoon around sunset.
At these times the sandstone bands change from ochre red to orange and purple.
The reserve is on the traditional lands of the Upper Southern Arrernte people and is known to them as Wurre.
It has important archaeological sites rich in evidence of the ancient connection to the area.
Make sure you visit Mushroom Rock, an interesting sandstone formation, which has been carved by wind and rain over millions of years.
The short walk around the claypan is well worth it, especially in wildflower season.
This park requires visitors to the NT to have a parks pass.
Get the Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve fact sheet and map PDF (902.1 KB).
Find out about camping in parks and reserves.
Check if the park is open
Phone: 08 8951 8250
| Park sites | Status | Comments | Forecast opening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve | Open | High Clearance 4WD only. |
All year round, except roads may be closed after heavy rain.
The best time to visit is during the cooler months from April to September.
The turnoff to the reserve is 75km south of Alice Springs along the Stuart Highway. The reserve is a further 22km on an unsealed access road.
It's recommended for four wheel drive (4WD) vehicles.
Check road conditions before you go.
You can do all of the following activities in the reserve:
- short walks
- camping
- wildlife spotting.
Camping is available at Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve.
Book before you go
You must book online and pay a fee to camp.
Do this before you go. You can't pay at the site.
Learn more about camping in parks and reserves.
Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve has all of the following facilities:
- information signs
- fire pits
- public toilets
- picnic tables
- barbecues
- campsites
- walking tracks.
When visiting the park, remember all of the following:
- visitors to the NT require a parks pass
- stay on designated roads and tracks
- historic, cultural items and wildlife are protected
- firewood collection is not permitted in the reserve
- fires are only permitted in designated fire pits
- bins are not provided, so take your rubbish with you
- pets are not permitted in the reserve
- generators are not permitted
- drones are not permitted in the reserve.
Have a safe and comfortable trip to Rainbow Valley by doing all of the following:
- observe park safety signs
- carry and drink plenty of water
- wear a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, suitable clothing and footwear
- avoid strenuous activity during the heat of the day
- think about your health and fitness when choosing a walk
- use free interactive park maps on your mobile phone or tablet.
Phone: 08 8951 8250
Last updated: 24 March 2024
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