Visiting the Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu)
The Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu) are a collection of massive rounded granite boulders which seem to balance precariously on top of each other. I’m sure you would have seen pictures or heard about them before, as they are an iconic image of the Australian outback in the Northern Territory. But did you know that you can camp right beside them? Or walk among them? Or that they appear to glow red when the sun sets on them?
Yep, the sunset here is pretty epic, but imagine waking up to the same view and watching the giant boulders gradually change colour as the sun rises!
A bit of background
The Devils Marbles are the traditional country for the Warumungu, Alyawarr, Kaytetye and Warlpiri people. Its indigenous name, Karlu Karlu, literally translates to ’round boulder’, and when you see them for the first time, it’s easy to see why.
This fascinating landscape is recognised as being of great cultural significance and is a registered sacred site, with many stories and traditions associated with the area. The Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu) Conservation Reserve was officially given back to the site’s traditional owners in a historic ceremony on 27th October 2008 and became a jointly managed park in 2009.
The traditional owners ask that you do not climb the rocks of the Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu) except the boulders at the designated Nyanjiki Lookout Walk.
How were the Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu) formed?
Geologically speaking, the Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu) were originally formed when an upsurge of molten rock cooled to become granite. On top of this was a thick layer of sandstone that compressed the granite under its weight. Over the years, water infiltrated the cracks and eroded the sandstone, simultaneously reducing the pressure placed on the granite, thus causing the granite to expand and then crack horizontally and vertically into rectangular and cube-shaped blocks.
After the sandstone eroded away, the angular granite blocks were then subject to erosion themselves. By nature, granite is much harder than sandstone, so it is more resistant to the same weather and chemicals. The edges rounded off with further erosion, and eventually, the round granite boulders were revealed, rising up out of the desert. Some of the Devils Marbles (Karle Karlu) are up to six metres across!
It’s important to remember that this process takes millions of years to occur.
What to see and do at the Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu)
There are a number of short walks in the area for visitors to enjoy. Walk up to the Nyanjiki Lookout for a panoramic view of the reserve. Alternatively, take the easy 20-minute return Karlu Karlu walk, which begins at the day-use carpark area. If time is on your side, take in the four-kilometre Nurrku Walk.
Visitors can also camp at the Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu), marvel at the amazing geological features and go wildlife spotting.
Camping at Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu)
There is a structured campground at the Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu) and an overflow campground, but both must be booked online here before you arrive. Although this campsite used to be a free campsite, this is no longer the case.
There are 24 unpowered caravan/trailer sites, and facilities include:
- Pit toilets
- Communal fire pits
- Sheltered picnic tables
- WiFi hotspot in the day-use area (not the camping area)
No water or firewood is provided so you will need to bring your own supplies.
At the time of writing, the Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu) camping ground is a Category B campground and as a result, fees are as follows:
- $10 per adult
- $5 per child (5 to 17 years)
- $25 per family (2 adults and 4 children)
Can you visit the Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu) with kids?
Absolutely! There is plenty of space for the kids to run around, and it’s a great learning opportunity with plenty of signage around to explain things. My young kids loved the walking tracks around the huge boulders and had a great time exploring the rocks.
Book before you go
As mentioned above, if you wish to camp at the Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu), you must pay and book in advance before you arrive.
However, most parks in the NT now require you to also have a parks pass to visit and the Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu) Conservation Area is no exception.
How to get to the Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu)
The Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu) are located just off the Stuart Highway, approximately 100 kilometres past Tennant Creek. You will pass them on the way to Alice Springs if coming in from the North. Alice Springs is a further 412 km South.
The Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve runs along both sides of the Stuart Highway, so you really can’t miss them.
When is a good time to visit?
You can visit the Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu) any time of the year, but some months are more comfortable than others because of the heat. Many people say the best time to visit is during the cooler months from April to September. We visited in September and it was starting to get uncomfortably hot during the day.
Resources for booking your getaway to Central Australia
Getting to the Red Centre of Australia
Most capital cities have flights to Central Australia, with flights landing in Alice Springs and Yulara, a smaller airport near Ayers Rock Resort. Find great deals on flights to Central Australia at Trip.com.
Getting around Central Australia
Car hire is available in Alice Springs. Compare car hire prices across major brands at Discover Cars. Don’t forget you will need a 4WD to drive the Mereenie Road Loop or see the entirety of the East MacDonnell Ranges.
Accommodation in Central Australia
Ayers Rock Resort in the obvious choice at Uluru Kata-Tjuta National Park, with a range of accommodations from camping to hotel rooms. For the ultimate in luxury at Uluru, stay at Longitude 131.
Kings Canyon Resort is a great choice for visiting Kings Canyon in the Watarrka National Park. Their glamping tents are divine, but the campgrounds are well-serviced if you’re on a camping road trip.
Glen Helen is the only non-camping option available in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Camping is also available at Ellery Creek, Ormiston Gorge, Finke 2 Mile and Redbank Gorge. Alternatively, you can book accommodation in Alice Springs and easily day-trip out to the West Macs.
If exploring the East MacDonnell ranges, check out Hale River Homestead and Ross River Homestead.
Tours and activities in Central Australia
Book your Central Australia tours and activities through Viator.
