What is the Simpson Desert?
The Simpson Desert is a large sandy desert in central Australia, famous for long, parallel red sand dunes. It covers parts of the Northern Territory, Queensland and South Australia.
The desert covers about 176,500 square kilometres. Its dunes run north to south for many kilometres, and some rise more than 30 metres. Big Red, near Birdsville in Queensland, is one of the most famous dunes.
Crossing the Simpson is a classic outback adventure for experienced four-wheel drivers, who may cross hundreds of dunes. The first recorded European crossing was led by Cecil Madigan in 1939, using camels.
Life in the dunes
Despite its harsh conditions, the desert supports reptiles, small mammals and birds. After rare rain, wildflowers bloom across the sand. Parks such as Munga-Thirri-Simpson Desert National Park protect large areas.
The national park in Queensland and the regional reserve in South Australia close during the hottest months, usually from December to March, for visitor safety.
Did You Know?
Birdsville's Big Red Bash, a music festival held beside the dune, has been called the world's most remote music festival.