Devils Marbles

With nothing but flat plains for as far as the eye can see, the Devils Marbles are an anomaly of the Northern Territory’s outback. Also known as Karlu Karlu to the traditional owners of this land, there’s an aura surrounding these rocks that cannot be explained. You will simply have to witness these awe-inspiring rocks for yourself.

A sunrise and sunset here are usually breathtakingly spectacular with brilliant outback skies almost guaranteed at both dawn and dusk. In low light, the minimalism of the surrounding plains combined with the silhouette of the marbles is what it’s all about. Coupled with a brilliant outback backdrop, the magic of the Devils Marbles is an unforgettable experience that anyone travelling ‘up the middle’ should see with their own eyes.

Ask anyone who has completed a tour of Australia if they have been to the Devils Marbles, and the answer will most likely be a resounding yes. Spread out on either side of the arterial Stuart Highway, anyone travelling north or south through the centre of Australia will inevitably pass through the Devils Marbles, as there aren’t too many roads out in these remote parts.

Visitors who make it to this location are welcome to stop and use the day-use area to take in the sights. Having said that, with vast distances on either side of the Devils Marbles proving to be flat and, dare we say, uninteresting, most stay a day (or two) at the Karlu Karlu Campground. The location of this campground couldn’t be better, as it is surrounded by some of the most interesting formations of the Devils Marbles. The camp area is large enough to accommodate campers and caravanners alike, with public toilets and fireplaces on site. Note that you will need to bring your own water, food and firewood.

In short, with the potential of a most glorious sunrise and sunset, a trip to this icon of the outback is a must-see if travelling through the Northern Territory’s interior.

Once you’ve parked at either the campground or day-use area, the Devils Marbles Conservation Area is easy to explore on foot. The best way to appreciate its most striking boulder formations is to follow the Devils Marbles Loop Walk, which winds through some of the area’s most memorable natural features.

This walk starts at the sheltered information boards in the day-use area, where you can also learn how these remarkable rocks were formed. Additionally, you’ll find several interpretive signs along the walk providing further insight into these stunning granite wonders.

Taking around fifteen minutes to complete, this is a short, enjoyable experience. You’ll also discover a free Wi-Fi service at the sheltered information boards, which will be welcomed by most as the internet is scarce in this otherwise remote area. Note that once logged in to the service, the connection will last approximately twenty minutes.