Pilliga Spring

## Overview Pilliga Spring is a free natural hot spring located just outside the small town of Pilliga in northern New South Wales, Australia. The spring draws its warm water from the Great Artesian Basin — one of the largest and deepest underground water reservoirs in the world, stretching beneath roughly 1.7 million square kilometres of the Australian continent. Water from the Great Artesian Basin can take up to two million years to travel from its recharge areas along the Great Dividing Range to its natural discharge points, picking up minerals and heat from deep underground along the way. Springs fed by this basin are typically warm to hot and are known for their mineral-rich content. The Pilliga area sits within the broader Pilliga forest region, one of the largest remaining semi-arid woodland areas in eastern Australia. The landscape is characterised by sandy soils, scrubby bushland, and a quiet, remote atmosphere. Artesian springs like this one have historically been vital water sources for both Indigenous communities and early European settlers in the arid inland regions of New South Wales. The town of Pilliga itself is a tiny settlement along the Newell Highway corridor, and the spring offers a unique opportunity to experience naturally heated artesian water in a rustic, outback setting — free of charge. ## Directions 1. Head to the small town of Pilliga, located in northern New South Wales along the Newell Highway, roughly midway between Coonamble and Narrabri. 2. The spring is situated just outside the town. Use the GPS coordinates **-30.355259, 148.906845** to navigate directly to the site. 3. Look for the spring on the outskirts of Pilliga — the area is relatively flat and sparsely vegetated, so the spring area should be identifiable once you're nearby. *Note: Roads in this region can be unsealed and conditions may vary after rain. A vehicle with reasonable clearance is recommended.* ## What to Expect Pilliga Spring offers a simple, no-frills hot spring experience in the Australian outback. The water emerges naturally from the Great Artesian Basin, and visitors can expect it to be warm — artesian springs in this part of New South Wales typically range from around 30°C to over 40°C, though the exact temperature at this site may vary. The surroundings are quintessentially rural New South Wales: flat, dry bushland with scattered eucalyptus and native scrub. This is a remote and quiet spot, so don't expect facilities, signage, or other visitors. Bring everything you need, including drinking water and sun protection, as shade may be limited. The spring is free to access and offers a peaceful stop for travellers passing through the Pilliga region. It's particularly enjoyable during the cooler months when the warm artesian water provides a welcome contrast to the crisp outback air. The area around Pilliga is also home to the Pilliga Nature Reserve and Pilliga State Conservation Area, making it a worthwhile region to explore for nature lovers.