2022-06-01
A little over 20 kms North of Hawker in the Flinders Ranges is a creek crossing that some years back was the perfect spot for a free camp.
Forget free camping for now, because next to that creek and at the end of a 3 or 4 km dirt driveway is the homestead and office to an outback sheep and cattle station called Mount Little … a sheep and cattle station that welcomes visitors.
The signage at the entrance is very clear and features an oh so modern orange and blue sign. ‘’Choose your adventure “ is written under the logo and that is exactly what we intended to do.
We pulled up unannounced while literally passing by, without a booking, to be greeted by Kelly, the co-owner, who was most enthusiastic about us staying the night on one of the campsites available (we were towing our own camper trailer).
We were handed a map, along with a plastic carry pack (which they ask you leave at their door on the way out) that was chockablock full of information. The different info and brochures not only covered the property and things to do while staying there but also had info on nearby features and services … a terrific and handy start.
Our nominated campsite was well signed and a couple of kms from the main homestead. On arrival at the campsite we were very surprised at the amount of room afforded us … more than enough room for the two of us, our stuff and our camper trailer. A fire was lit, the camper was setup and our table and chairs set up, placed perfectly so as to enjoy the million or so stars on show.
By the way, we had an open fire cooked Paella, which was pretty bloody good too.
It takes generations for trees to shed a limb or two and so firewood is always part of our kit. If you forget to or don’t have a chance to, bags of firewood can be purchased at the homestead entrance.
There was a flushing toilet nearby and a solar shower a short drive away from where we were camped with piping hot water if you showered later in the day ... all included in the site fee.
Next morning saw us pack up and continue on our intended journey, only to have the plans change because of rain and road closures further north. Roads closed meant our final proposed destination of Innamincka to meet friends was not possible and, in fact, was not possible for our group that were two days in front of us either They got as far as Lyndhurst and had to turnaround.
We met up with our mates at Parachilna for a burger and a beer and a chat about new last minute plans. It was agreed that we spend a couple of nights in another wonderful Station Stay campsite at Moolooloo (near Blinman), and then because we spoke so highly of our Mount Little station all 8 of us agreed we should head off and stay there so they could see what all the fuss was about.
The same site that we had stayed in 2 nights earlier was available and big enough for the whole gang - 8 x people, 2 x camper trailers, 2 x tents, 4 x cars and all the gear that goes with it. A very reasonable per person fee was paid and a couple of bags of firewood purchased and we were off.
The next two nights included late night talks around the fire, 5 star meals cooked in a camp oven, and plenty of time just taking in the serenity and sounds of the outback.
During the day the station itself has many different experiences to enjoy, 4 wheel drive tracks, walking trails , The Mawson Track bicycle trails and wildlife galore. Farm animal feeding at the homestead for kids (or wannabe kids) at 9.00 each morning is also a highlight. Some of us made our way down there both mornings to watch the kids have fun.
Anyway … don’t take my word for it, go and have a look for yourself.
If you haven’t got camping gear then there are all sorts of accommodation options on the property for you to consider – campsites, homestays, homestead, sunset apartments, off grid donga style with a camp kitchen and more (did I mention the Tavern)?
Traverse the property and explore the many 4 wheel drive tracks on offer (none are too gnarly) in your own 4 wheel drive … or consider one of ours.
Choose from Dual cabs with heaps of room to carry camping gear, or a Toyota Prado if you want to go up market and stay in one of the stations self contained style accommodation options, or the Ford Ranger with the electric brake option if your towing your luxury house on wheels . All of Complete’s 4 wheel drive vehicles are late model, all are comfortable, and all are more than capable.
Whatever your camping or outback accommodation needs … Mount Little station has the options. Whatever your four wheel drive needs … Complete Four Wheel Drive Hire has the answers .
Enjoy!