Karlu Karlu Conservation Reserve Devils Marbles

28. August 2026

Karlu Karlu, or the Devils Marbles, is a living cultural landscape and the traditional country for the Warumungu, Kaytetye, Alyawarr and Warlpiri people.

Karlu Karlu, literally translated as ‘round boulders’, are a collection of gigantic rounded granite boulders, many of which are precariously balanced on top of one another. Scattered heaps of these ‘marbles’ occur across the wide, shallow valley that makes up the Reserve.

Karlu Karlu is recognised as being of great cultural significance and became a jointly managed park in 2009. Almost the entire Reserve is a registered sacred site and many stories and traditions are associated to the area.

Geologically, the marbles were formed from an upsurge of molten rock that cooled and became solid beneath a layer of sandstone. The solidifying granite caused vertical and horizontal fractures creating rectangular blocks to form. Over time, water infiltrated the cracks breaking down the sandstone, and then the granite. As a result, rounded granite boulders perched on top of each other have been revealed.

The heaps of granite boulders create a variety of miniature refuges and sheltered environments, where more sensitive plants like the native Rock Fig (Ficus brachypoda) survive.

Attached to the underside of overhanging boulders, clusters
of the bottle-shaped mud nests of Fairy Martins (Petrochelidon ariel) may be found. Occasionally the small Black-headed Goanna (Varanus tristis) is seen in the crevices, while the larger Sand Goanna (Varanus gouldii) is more often found among the thick clumps of spinifex (Triodia spp.) growing in the spaces between the boulders. Flocks of birds including Zebra Finches (Taeniopygia guttata) and Painted Finches (Emblema pictum) are often found in the Reserve.

Access
Park entry fees - Parks Pass applies (NT residents exempt).

This 1,802 hectare Reserve extends along both sides of the Stuart Highway approximately 393 km north of Alice Springs and 100 km south of Tennant Creek. The nearest settlement is Wauchope, 9 km to the south, where fuel and limited supplies can be obtained.

Karlu Karlu Conservation Reserve Devils Marbles (2)

What to do
Camping - A simple, bush camping area with 24 unpowered caravan / trailer sites, tent camping area, sheltered picnic tables, fire places with BBQ plates and pit toilets is located at the southern end of the Reserve. No water or firewood is provided and you need to bring your own supplies. Camping fees apply and campsites must be booked online before you arrive. Pets are not permitted in the campground or on any of the walking tracks.

Walking - There are several walks to enjoy, including the Nyanjiki Lookout providing a panoramic view of the Reserve. The Karlu Karlu walk is an easy short walk (20 minute return) which commences from the day use area carpark. Signs explain the formation of the Karlu (Marbles). The 4 km Nurrku Walk provides visitors with a longer opportunity to experience the wider Reserve.

Safety and Comfort

• Observe park safety signs.

• Carry and drink plenty of water.

• Wear a shady hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, suitable clothing and footwear.

• Avoid strenuous activity during the heat of the day.

• Consider your health and fitness when choosing a walk.

Please Remember

• Keep to designated roads and tracks.

• Camp only in your pre-booked site in designated camping areas.

• All historic, cultural items, plants and wildlife are protected.

• Fires are only permitted in designated fire pits.

• Collect firewood before entering the reserve.

• Pets are permitted in the day use carpark only and must be on a lead.

• Generators are not permitted.

• Drones are not permitted.

• Traditional Owners ask that you do not climb on the Karlu (Marbles).

Photocredit : Wild Australia Photography - Tourism & Events NT Dom and Jesso - Tourism & Events NT Daniel Tran

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