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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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 special protected area in South Australia. It used to be called Lake Eyre National Park. This park is about 697 kilometers (433 miles) north of Adelaide, the capital city of South Australia.
The park includes both the North and South parts of Lake Eyre. This is Australia's largest salt lake. It also covers parts of the Tirari Desert. The park protects dry desert areas and the lowest point on the Australian mainland.
In 2013, the park's name was changed to Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park. "Kati Thanda" is the traditional name for the lake used by the Arabana Aboriginal people.
About the Park
Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park is very important. It protects unique desert landscapes. It also includes the huge salt lake, which is often dry. When it rains a lot, the lake can fill with water.
Since 2012, the park has been managed together by two groups. These are the Arabana Aboriginal people and the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR). This is called a co-management agreement. It means they work together to look after the park.
Inside the national park, there is another smaller protected area. It is called Elliot Price Conservation Park. This park covers the Hunt Peninsula and Brooks Island. These are areas within and around the northern part of Lake Eyre. Elliot Price Conservation Park was the first protected area created in South Australia's dry regions. It was named after Elliot Price, who lived nearby.
It can be difficult to drive into the park. Vehicle access is limited to protect the fragile environment.
Protecting Nature
Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park is classified as an IUCN Category VI protected area. This means it's a protected area where people can use natural resources in a sustainable way. This helps to protect the environment for a long time.