After hightailing it out of Peterborough we decided on a station stay just outside of Wilpena. This place had been recommended to us by several people who we have met along the road with one of those people even detailing to us where we should camp on the station to get the best views of the Flinders Ranges.
We had considered getting a powered site so we could plug in our little heater but when we arrived we quickly realised the bush camping area was far superior in regards to views and space so we decided to brave the cold and camp unpowered. It did help that we were allowed fires. The lady at the front desk walked us through some of the things we could do on the station which included a hike in the National Park up to Rawnsley Bluff and Wilpena Pound and we left reception pretty excited for our stay.
We found an amazing little spot and set up to watch the sun set around a roaring fire. The colours on the rock face and shadows were spellbinding. Unfortunately the wind picked up after dinner and we soon vacated inside under our doona and in our sleeping bags!
The next day we dropped Griff off with the lady at reception and off we went to walk up to Rawnsley Bluff. The temps were still in the single figures so we were pretty rugged up with additional layers in our bags considering we were climbing up about 600metres. It started by slowly winding up though the scrub land which already was stunning with the red dirt and rocks and green foliage. We soon found ourselves scrambling up over a pretty steep section which continued on for about a kilometre. Most layers had been stripped off by then and we were both puffing so much the conversation died out completely. But when we made it to the top the views were spectacular. Another few kilometres along the top and we made it to Rawnsleys Bluff. We didn’t stay long as the wind was absolutely howling so we quickly got our fill of the view and defended back along the ridge into tree cover.
Next stop was Wilpena Pound which was on the other side of the ridge. Both of us were quite curious as to what we were going to be seeing and had both decided that pound was another word for rock or hill or something. But when we arrived the sign explained that it was in fact a very large animal pound for lost livestock. The pound itself was a flat bit of pasture surrounded by the ranges on all sides.
We thought the steep section was not going to be very kind on our knees but it was easier than expected but by the time we arrived back home we were both pretty exhausted and ready for a beer and a sit around the fire. Although cold again the wind had died down and the sunset on the Ranges was spectacular. Followed by horizon to horizon stars at night. It was such an awe inspiring place to camp. Afterwards tucked in snug in bed with our sleeping bags and blankets we both had the sleep of babes.
We were a little sore the next day so decided for a walk around the station with Griffy instead of anything too strenuous. From any angle you looked an amazing range was in view. The surrounding bush was really interesting as it was pine trees but most did not reach much past our heads. Not sure it was a particular type or just stunted due to the lack of rain they usually receive. Back at camp we stoked up the fire and made ourselves some damper which was delicious. It’s our third attempt and we are getting better with each try. We had considered extending our stay but the weather was going to get colder so we decided to pack up shop and head north again.
Our stay at Rawnsely Station was definitely one to remember and we have marked the Flinders Ranges as somewhere we would definitely come back to to do some more exploring. Maybe just when it’s a little less cold. S
