Bendleby Ranges – Flinders Ranges
By Simon Cross
My partner Andie, our dogs Bruce and Willow, and I recently took a leap from city life into our first off-grid camping adventure at Bendleby Ranges, just south of the Flinders Ranges. This thrilling escape from our urban comforts found us entirely self-sufficient, with no access to power or water. The generous supply of wood waiting at the campsite allowed us to keep a cosy fire blazing throughout our stay, essential for both warmth and our culinary experiments over open flames.
Navigating to Bendleby was a heart-pounding introduction, as the rough terrain tested both our nerves and the resilience of our caravan. However, any initial trepidation was quickly forgotten once we settled into our secluded campsite. Here, surrounded by nature’s vastness and with only occasional encounters with other travellers on the beginner-friendly 4×4 tracks, we felt like the only people in the world. Bruce and Willow thrived in the wide-open spaces, their antics adding bursts of joy to our adventure.
One unforgettable evening was spent at Sunset Ridge, where Andie and I, beers and nibbles in hand, were captivated by the breathtaking views of the rugged landscape under the golden glow of the setting sun. As dusk turned to night, the celestial show above was spectacular, with stars so vivid and numerous that we spent the night by the fire, simply stargazing.
Our host Charlie was a fountain of knowledge and reassurance, providing detailed maps and expert guidance for our first foray into off-roading. His instructions were so clear and thorough that even I, typically navigationally challenged, felt like an explorer charting unknown territories. Charlie’s approach made the experience feel safe and exhilarating, perfectly suited for beginners like us who weren’t quite daring enough to tackle the more advanced tracks—though, I must admit, the thought did cross our minds as we glanced at the maps of the more daunting routes with a mix of awe and a healthy dose of ‘maybe next time’.
Bendleby Ranges offered an ideal blend of serenity and mild adventure, making it the perfect getaway for us and our dogs. Whether it was lounging by the fire, gently navigating the 4×4 tracks, or enjoying the profound peace of the starlit nights, Bendleby connected us deeply with the natural beauty of the Australian outback. For anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature with loved ones, Bendleby promises a captivating and soul-stirring experience filled with both accessible adventures and opportunities for the braver souls.
