Few things are more quintessentially Australian than an Outback camping or caravanning trip. Waking up to breathtaking Red Centre sunrises that live up to the region’s name and with the stunning clarity of the outback sky at night, falling asleep under sparkling starry skies at night is an experience unlike anything else.

Ayers Rock Campground in Uluru offers an authentically Australian camping experience. Located a short 20-minute drive from Uluru-Kata Tjut̲a National Park, you’ll find yourself camping at the doorstep of a UNESCO World Heritage site that is not only a natural wonder but also a place steeped in history, as it holds significant cultural importance to An̲angu, the Traditional Custodians of the land.

There’s a lot to consider when planning your Northern Territory camping experience, so we’ve compiled a guide to help you get the most out of your stay at our most down to earth (literally, with the red sand directly under your feet) Uluru accommodation.

The best time to plan a camping or caravanning trip to the Northern Territory is during the region’s cooler months. From April to September, the weather is milder, allowing you to explore during the day and sleep comfortably without extreme heat, provided you’ve got the right gear (more on that below!) If you don’t mind the warmth, December through March can be a great time to maximise your holiday with longer days and plenty of opportunities to get out and explore early in the morning and into the evening.

All year round, campers and caravanners should follow safety protocols: always carry plenty of water, wear sun protection including a wide-brimmed hat, light protective layers, insect repellent and SPF, and stay on designated trails to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while you explore the Spiritual Heart of Australia.

Camping at Uluru is in high demand, especially during peak periods. With that in mind, be sure to book your site at Ayers Rock Campground early to avoid disappointment.

Outback camping in the Red Centre – with its vast, open landscape, arid climate and stunning natural beauty – offers a sense of solitude and connection with nature that is hard to find elsewhere. Ayers Rock Campground offers everything you need to make your camping or caravanning trip a memorable one.

Located within Ayers Rock Resort, this campground is the only legal place to set up camp near Uluru-Kata Tjut̲a National Park. It provides a safe and comfortable base for your exploration, with a range of facilities and amenities to make your stay enjoyable.

Even if you’re sleeping in a tent, rest easy knowing Ayers Rock Resort and its services are just steps away – including a free resort shuttle, swimming pools, free cultural activities, access to dining, shops, a supermarket, service station, mechanic and much more. The campground is also serviced by free Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected and share your photos with friends and family during your stay.

And with Uluru and Kata Tjut̲a just a short drive from your campsite (20 minutes to Uluru, 45 minutes to Kata Tjuta), it's the perfect home-away-from-home for exploring the most iconic landmarks and landscapes in Australia.

Please note that due to bushfire safety regulations, campfires are not permitted at Ayers Rock Campground during the summer months. Guests can bring their own enclosed, raised fire pit for campfires during the winter when there is not a total fire ban in place. Communal BBQ facilities are available for cooking.

It is key to choose the right gear for your Uluru camping trip. The type of gear you require will depend on if you’re caravanning or camping. Generally, you’ll want to make sure to bring a cosy sleeping bag, a head torch for nighttime activities, and folding chairs for relaxing after a day of Outback adventure.

Since temperatures can drop significantly at night, bring layers of clothing to stay warm — consider a beanie, gloves, and lightweight items that you can easily remove as the day heats up.

Sun protection is crucial, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and lip balm with SPF. If you’re visiting in the summer, insect repellent and during the warmer months, a fly net will help keep the bugs at bay during your outdoor adventures.

You'll also need sturdy, comfortable walking shoes for exploring and a water bottle or canteen to stay hydrated. Plan to drink at least one litre of water for every hour you spend outside to ensure you're adequately hydrated in the dry Outback climate. Ideally, bring a refillable water bottle that you can fill up around the resort.

In addition to free guest activities, there are several bucket list experiences at Ayers Rock Resort that you won’t want to skip.

One can’t-miss experience is Wintjiri Wiru — a captivating cultural storytelling experience that vividly brings to life a sacred ancestral Indigenous story through a mesmerising display of choreographed drones, lasers, and projections that light up the desert night sky above Uluru. This unique experience, which has received numerous awards, is a collaborative effort with senior An̲angu from Kal̲t̲ukatjara and Mut̲itjulu, the Traditional Custodians of the region. It stands as the world's largest ongoing drone display, offering a stunning visual spectacle that weaves ancient narratives with cutting-edge technology.

Sunrise Journeys is another item to add to your next Red Centre itinerary. The immersive sunrise experience shines a light on three prolific female Anangu artists who have come together to create a bespoke artwork that depicts their deep connection to culture and Country. Witness their bespoke artwork come to life against the backdrop of the expansive desert, before the majestic silhouettes of Uluru and Kata Tjuta emerge. After the display, indulge in a delicious breakfast featuring native flavours, perfectly complemented by a comforting Australian chai tea.

Field of Light, an immersive art installation, is another must-do experience you won’t want to miss. Spanning an area equivalent to more than seven football fields, it invites visitors into a fantastical garden illuminated by 50,000 spindles of light. Each stem pulses and sways through a harmonious desert-inspired spectrum of ochre, deep violet, blue, and soft white, creating a captivating and almost surreal atmosphere. As you walk among the glowing tendrils, it's easy to lose yourself in this magical landscape that blurs the lines between art and nature.

One unforgettable way to experience Ayers Rock Campground as part of a bigger Outback adventure? Make it part of a road trip. Few things feel more freeing than loading up the car or campervan, hitting the road, soaking up the desert scenery, and sleeping under the stars (the convenience of laundry, dining, and more on site are just the icing on the cake).

To help inspire your epic drive, check out our Red Centre drive itineraries, ranging from four to 14 days in length. Linger as long as you like as you experience the spiritual heart of Australia, then continue on to see even more of this beautiful part of the country. Learn about essential road trip information, sights to see along the route, and how to make the most of your drive.

Stargazing in the Outback near Uluru is a truly unique experience. With minimal light pollution and vast open skies, this region offers some of the world's best views of the night sky. As night descends and the cool desert air washes over you, you'll quickly understand why this location is a stargazer's paradise. The constellations pop against the velvety darkness, with the Southern Cross, Orion, and the Milky Way's bright band all clearly visible.

While camping in Uluru, having a stargazing app or a star chart can guide you to the major constellations and help you spot planets, meteors, and other cosmic wonders. Look for the Southern Cross, the bright guiding star in the southern hemisphere, or the majestic arcs of the Milky Way. The unique experience of camping and stargazing at Uluru makes for an unforgettable experience, connecting you to the ancient land and the vast cosmos above.

If you want to dive deeper into stargazing in the Outback, consider a guided stargazing tour to enhance your knowledge of the skies over Uluru, while uncovering ancient Anangu understanding of constellations as morals, stories and survival guides.

For a one-of-a-kind experience to elevate your camping itinerary, don’t miss the award-winning Tali Wiru. This one-of-a-kind dining experience weaves together an exquisite culinary journey followed by a comprehensive star talk by an Indigenous guide.

What types of camping accommodations are available at Ayers Rock Campground?

Ayers Rock Campground offers a range of camping options, including powered and unpowered campsites for tents, campervans, and caravans, as well as cabins for those seeking more comfort. Check out all site options to choose the spot best suited to your travel style.

Do I need to book my campsite in advance?

Yes, it’s highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, as campsites can fill up quickly.

What facilities are available at the Ayers Rock Campground?

Facilities include a camp kitchen, Wi-Fi, BBQ areas, laundry facilities, a swimming pool, a convenience store, and access to shared bathrooms with hot showers.

How do I get to the campground from the airport?

Guests arriving at Ayers Rock Airport can pick up a hire car at the airport (serviced by Thrifty, Hertz and Avis) or hop on the free airport shuttle for transportation to the campground. Once you’ve arrived, a complimentary resort shuttle makes its rounds throughout the resort at 20-minute intervals throughout the day – hop on for a quick change of scene.

Is camping suitable for families with young children?

Absolutely! The campground is family-friendly, with plenty of amenities and activities nearby to keep kids entertained, such as swimming and cultural workshops. Check out our family-friendly itineraries for some trip planning inspiration.

Can I have a campfire at the campground?

Campfires are permitted at Ayers Rock Campground only during the winter months if there is not a total fire ban in place. Guests must bring their own enclosed fire pit, and it must be raised off the ground. Fires are not permitted on the camping lawns.

What should I bring for a camping trip to Ayers Rock Resort?

Essentials include camping gear (tent, sleeping bags, etc.), sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, sturdy closed-toe walking shoes, and clothing for both hot days and cool nights.

Is there drinking water available at the campground?

Yes, drinking water is available at the campground. It’s always a good idea to carry extra water when exploring the surrounding areas.

How far is the campground from Uluru and other attractions?

The campground is approximately 20 minutes’ drive from Uluru and 45 minutes from Kata Tjuta. Shuttle services and tours are available if you don’t have your own vehicle. Please note that to enter Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, a park pass is required.

Are pets allowed at the Ayers Rock Campground?

Dogs are permitted at Ayers Rock Campground, but must be kept on a leash at all times. Unfortunately, cats are not permitted at Ayers Rock Campground, or anywhere in the township of Yulara. Please note, dogs (excluding service animals) are not permitted in Campground cabins, or dining facilities at Ayers Rock Resort.

Are there any cultural considerations to keep in mind while camping?

Yes, it’s important to respect the cultural significance of Uluru to the Anangu. Always follow guidelines, avoid climbing Uluru, and seek opportunities to learn respectfully about the local Aboriginal culture.

There’s something for every style of camper at Ayers Rock Campground in Uluru. Book your stay and start planning your bucket list visit to the Red Centre.