The best camping near Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

The looming red-rock monolith of Uluru, Australia’s most iconic natural wonder, takes centerstage at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Whether taking a guided base walk, admiring the views on a bike or Segway tour, or flying overhead in a helicopter—it’s dazzling from all angles, especially at sunrise and sunset. There’s more to the UNESCO-listed park than just Uluru. The red rock domes of Kata Tjuta or “The Olgas” are equally mesmerizing, and hiking trails lead to ancient Aboriginal rock art sites and the Mutitjulu Waterhole. Camping isn't permitted within the national park, but there are campgrounds in neighboring Ayer’s Rock and Yulara.

Australia’s sun-baked Red Centre is hot year-round, but the most comfortable temperatures for exploring are from May through September. This is high season, so expect big crowds, especially during school vacations and August-September when colorful wildflowers brighten up the desert landscapes. Low-season visitors will have to contend with daytime temperatures over 35°C, but summer rains also create spectacular waterfalls around Uluru—a sight many travelers miss.

• The park has a Cultural Centre, restrooms, picnic areas, a café, handicraft shops, and drinking water stations. Cell phone service is patchy throughout. 
• Park passes are valid for three days; admission is free for under-18s.
• Daytime temperatures at Uluru can reach 30°C even in mid-winter, so sunscreen, a hat, and fly repellent are essentials. Conversely, winter nights in the desert can be freezing, so pack for both extremes.
• Uluru-Kata Tjuta is owned by the Anangu people, and visitors are asked to refrain from climbing on the rocks and photographing and filming in sensitive areas out of respect for the land’s traditional owners. If in doubt, ask at the Cultural Centre.