Paralana Hot Springs

## Overview Paralana Hot Springs is a remarkable and unusual geothermal feature located just north of the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary in the northern Flinders Ranges of South Australia. It is considered one of the last remaining active hot springs in the region, making it a rare geological curiosity. The spring's water rises from deep underground, passing through the ancient rocks of Mount Painter — a geological formation known for its exceptionally high levels of naturally occurring radioactive minerals, including uranium and radium. In the early 1900s, Paralana Hot Springs was a popular tourist attraction. Visitors would travel to the remote area specifically to bathe in the warm, mineral-rich waters, believing the radioactive thermal baths held healing properties — a practice that was common at the time before the health risks of radiation exposure were well understood. Once the radioactive nature of the water became more widely recognized, bathing fell out of favour. Today, the hot spring is appreciated primarily as a photographic and scientific destination rather than a place for soaking. The water temperature at Paralana Hot Springs has been recorded at approximately 57°C (135°F), and the spring continuously emits gas, visible as a steady stream of bubbles rising through the water. The area has been the subject of numerous scientific studies, particularly research into how ancient fossils interact with geothermal groundwater systems and how radioactive minerals influence subsurface hydrology. ## Directions Paralana Hot Springs is located in a remote part of outback South Australia, accessible via the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary and the Wooltana pastoral station area. 1. Travel to the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, which is approximately 600 km north of Adelaide via the Leigh Creek and Copley route. 2. From Arkaroola Village, head north toward the Wooltana area. 3. The hot springs are situated just north of Arkaroola, near the base of Mount Painter. Look for signage or ask at the Arkaroola resort for current access information, as conditions and access permissions can change. 4. GPS coordinates: -30.2587501, 139.3883199. A vehicle with good ground clearance is strongly recommended, as roads in this area are unsealed and can be rough. Note: Access to the springs may require permission or be part of a guided tour through the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary. It is advisable to check with the sanctuary before visiting. ## What to Expect Paralana Hot Springs sits in a stark, arid landscape typical of the northern Flinders Ranges — rugged, ancient terrain with sweeping views and minimal vegetation. The spring itself is relatively small but visually striking, with constant bubbling caused by gas emissions rising through the heated water. The water temperature of around 57°C means it is far too hot (and not recommended) for bathing, quite apart from the radioactive mineral content. The surrounding scenery is spectacular, with the dramatic geology of Mount Painter and the wider Arkaroola region providing a stunning backdrop. This is a landscape of deep geological time — some of the rocks in the area are over 1.6 billion years old. Visitors should be prepared for remote outback conditions: bring plenty of water, sun protection, and ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and fuelled. Mobile phone reception is limited or nonexistent in this area. The hot spring is best visited as part of a broader trip to the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, which offers additional attractions including ridgetop tours, hiking trails, and some of the clearest night skies in Australia for stargazing.