Self-Driving Option

 

For guests who prefer to self-drive, here’s everything you need to know to ensure a smooth arrival at Clayton Station and a stress-free start to your journey.

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Meeting Point

Clayton Station Wetlands Camping Grounds:
Located opposite the Clayton Station Homestead, this is the first-night campsite for all Camel Treks Australia journeys.

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Driving Requirements

• Vehicle Suitability:
  Standard 2-wheel-drive vehicles are suitable if they have high ground clearance for the final 50 km of dirt road on the Birdsville Track from Marree Township to Clayton Station.

• Road Conditions:
  Check the Outback Roads website before departure. Weather and road conditions in the Outback can change rapidly.

• Safety Tips:

  • Avoid driving at dawn or dusk due to wildlife and station stock on roads.

  • Ensure your vehicle has a spare tyre, adequate drinking water, and is mechanically reliable.

  • Mechanical and towing services are limited and costly beyond the Northern Flinders Ranges. Consider checking your RAA membership or equivalent.

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Recommended Stopovers

Many guests split the drive from Adelaide City- 7-hour, 50-minute drive into two days:

• Halfway Point: Hawker Township or Wilpena Pound.

• Suggested Accommodation: Merna Mora Station, conveniently located off the main road for an effortless start the next day.

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Arrival at Clayton Station

• Arrival Time:
  Self-driving guests are welcome to arrive at the Clayton Station Wetlands Camping Grounds anytime in the afternoon. However, the Camel Treks Australia crew typically arrives around 6:00 pm with guests arriving via the Stateliner Coach Service.

• Early Arrivals:
  Feel free to relax and enjoy the facilities, including the hot tub and showers, while you wait.

• Dining Options:
  If you arrive early, you may choose to visit the Marree Hotel or Oasis Cafe for a meal before proceeding to Clayton Station.

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Navigation

• Set Your GPS:
  Enter Clayton Station, Birdsville Track, or Marree, South Australia (postcode 5733).

• Route:
  From Marree, follow the Birdsville Track for 50 km to reach Clayton Station Wetlands Campgrounds.

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Parking & Meeting the Crew

• Upon arrival, Camel Treks Australia Cameleers will assist you in safely parking your vehicle, caravan, or trailer for the duration of your trek. Approximate arrival time of cameleers is between 6 - 7pm.

• Please wait at the campgrounds rather than proceeding to the busy working station base at Clayton Station Homestead.

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Alternate Parking Option

If preferred, guests can park their vehicles at the Camel Treks Australia Camel Farm base, located just south of Port Augusta, by 12:15 pm on the designated arrival day:

• 5-Day Journey: Friday

• 7-Day Journey: Saturday

• 9-Day Journey: Thursday

Address details will be provided upon booking.

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Important Notes for Self-Drivers

1. The final 54 km on the Birdsville Track is unsealed; ensure your vehicle is suited for the conditions.

2. Camel Treks Australia provides a late evening meal upon arrival at Clayton Station.

3. The Camel Treks Australia crew will be en route with bus arrivals and may encounter delays due to road and wildlife conditions, so your patience is appreciated.

4. If you are unable to navigate the final 54 km of dirt road, please plan ahead to park your vehicle in Marree Township. Arrangements can be made directly with Lyall Oldfield, owner of the Marree Roadhouse. Once confirmed, kindly email or call Camel Treks Australia to notify us of your plans.​​​​