One thing before we start…you need to BOOK! Especially in peak time…Book here: Ayers Rock Campground
Ok, now that we have that out of the way, let’s talk about this campground which is only a hop, skip and a jump away from the awe inspiring Uluru (or a 20 minute drive). Located in the township of Yulara and run by the Ayers Rock Resort, this campground has everyone covered. From powered sites, unpowered, tent sites, motorhome sites, group camping areas and loads of trees. Yes…trees! In the middle of the desert! This was very surprising for us. In the middle of the Red Centre we find this ‘oasis’ of green, trees, shade and fabulous facilities. *we were there Aug 2016 where the region had experiences a very green and lush period!
We were once again greeted by super friendly and helpful staff and after all these years, we are starting to think that it must be a pre-requisite to be awesome to work in this industry.or we may have been very lucky so far. We checked out the small reception/shop/tourist information hub while we patiently waited to be checked in. During peak times, this can be a very busy centre, so be prepared for a little wait. Everything we needed was there. We could book tours, find out about the area and also pick up some general store items. We got our map and headed off to find our site.
I love it when we are put near the facilities, makes the walk at night a little easier for our girls and these facilities were spot on. For such a big park that was super busy, everything was clean, tidy and well stocked. We totally understand that staff can’t be everywhere; however we were very impressed with the state of all the facilities.
The Red dirt was everywhere and we LOVED it. We had heard from some other travellers who thought there was ‘too much’?! What the? Yes, it was everywhere…but HELLO, we are in the red centre! Our generous campsite was near some trees which gave us some lovely shade and we then discovered our favourite part of this campground.
THE VIEW! I had not really thought about whether there would be a view of the Rock from the caravan park, and we were all blown away when we walked only a couple of hundred meters up a small sand dune from our van and were faced with a FULL view of Uluru. Plus, a full view of Kata Tjuta (the Olga) from the opposite direction. Our first sunset brought tears to our eyes. Were we really here? Breathtaking!
We explored the campground, and spoke with many campers and caravanners who were all enjoying their time there. We were opposite the group camp area and took great joy in watching a few school groups come through during our stay. All setting up their swags, working as a team and revelling in everything this spiritual heartland has to offer. Even the university students from France were loving ‘roughing’ it and despite their laughter being quite loud on a few occasions, it was lovely to listen to.
There was a small playground, games room and pool, although we found there was so much to see and do that we did not use these facilities much. Was lovely for the girls to have some down time in the playground. (how bizarre that downtime on our adventures is the playground…hahaha)
More shops were only a 10 min walk across another sand dune viewing area or a quick few minutes ride on the free shuttle bus. Click here to find out more about our stay in Yulara and visits to Uluru and Kata Tjuta.
Over all, we LOVED this campground. If you have followed us for a while, you will know that we only need the simple things in life, and a park that is clean and well maintained ticks the boxes for us. The Ayers Rock Campground had everything we needed in the most incredible location in the world.
Have you seen our Travel Journals? Perfect for recording your adventures….
We are leaving to head up to Ularu end of May we have a 4 year old grandson with us where do you suggest we stay have a 7meter Motorhome self contained