Dalhousie Springs, Witjira National Park

Nestled in the Witjira National Park, Dalhousie Springs is a natural artesian spring complex consisting of over 60 springs.

It is located in northern South Australia, approximately 180 kilometres northeast of Oodnadatta and 250 kilometres southeast of Alice Springs.

Dalhousie Springs holds significant cultural importance in Aboriginal tradition and is associated with Dreamtime stories and songs. The area contains large camp sites and stone artefacts. The name 'Dalhousie' was given by surveyor Richard Randall Knuckey in honor of a friend and the Overland Telegraph Line. In 2009, it was added to the Australian National Heritage List.

The water in Dalhousie Springs comes from the Great Artesian Basin aquifer and has been recharged over thousands of years. It has a high mineral content and a temperature range of 38 to 43 degrees Celsius. Visitors can swim in the mineral-rich water and observe unique fish species that inhabit the area.

Dalhousie Springs is a popular starting point for exploring the Simpson Desert. Visitors can travel approximately 600 kilometres eastwards from Dalhousie Springs to Birdsville in Queensland.

As of November 26th, 2021, the Dalhousie Springs National Heritage Area is now free from mining activities.