What the drive involves

The Birdsville Track is the old stock route from south-west Queensland to the railhead at Marree. It crosses gibber plains and the edges of the Strzelecki and Tirari deserts, with almost no services between the two towns. The road is gravel and sand, corrugated in places, and it closes after rain.

What written approval means for your hire

Written approval means the trip is approved before you collect the camper and noted on your rental agreement. Ask for it when you book: approval can be refused, or come with conditions such as the season, a satellite phone or travel with a second vehicle. Driving there without it breaches the hire terms, and damage on the way is usually not covered.

Questions about the Birdsville Track

How do I know if the Birdsville Track is open?

Check the South Australian and Queensland outback road reports before you leave. Roads close after rain, and driving a closed road brings heavy fines.

Where can I get fuel on the Birdsville Track?

At Marree and Birdsville. Services between them are few and not always open, so carry enough for the whole distance.

Can I combine the Birdsville Track with the Simpson Desert?

Yes, if your camper is approved for both. The Simpson Desert has its own rules and its own page.