Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National ParkSouth Australia |
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IUCN Category VI (Managed Resource Protected Area)
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 Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park
Location in South Australia
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| Nearest town or city | Marree |
| Established | 31 October 1985 |
| Area | 13,488.37 km2 (5,207.9 sq mi) |
| Managing authorities | Arabana aboriginal people DEW |
| Website | Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park |
| See also | Protected areas of South Australia |
Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park is a huge protected area in South Australia. It's located about 697 kilometers (433 miles) north of the state capital, Adelaide. This special park includes both the North and South parts of Lake Eyre, which is Australia's largest salt lake. It also covers parts of the Tirari Desert.
The park protects dry desert landscapes. It is home to the nation's largest salt lake. It also contains the lowest point on the Australian mainland.
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About Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park
This national park was first set up on October 31, 1985. It was originally called Lake Eyre National Park. On November 14, 2013, its name was changed to Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park. This new name includes the traditional Aboriginal name for the lake, "Kati Thanda."
What Makes the Park Special?
Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park is a very important place. It protects unique desert environments. It is known for its vast salt lake, which is usually dry. When it rains a lot, the lake can fill with water. This creates an amazing sight. The park is also home to the lowest point in Australia.
How the Park is Managed
Since 2012, the park has been looked after by two groups working together. These are the Arabana Aboriginal people and the Department for Environment and Water (DEW). This partnership is called a co-management agreement. It helps make sure the park's nature and culture are protected for everyone.
The park is classified as an IUCN Category VI protected area. This means it is a protected area where people can use natural resources in a sustainable way. This helps keep the park healthy for the future.
Nearby Protected Areas
The national park almost completely surrounds another special area. This is the Elliot Price Conservation Park. Elliot Price Conservation Park covers the Hunt Peninsula and Brooks Island. These are found within and around the northern part of Lake Eyre. It was named after Elliot Price from the nearby Muloorina Station. This smaller park was South Australia's first protected area in a dry, desert region.
Visiting the Park
Getting to Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park can be tricky. There is limited vehicle access to the park. This helps protect its fragile environment.
