Wabma Kadarbu Mound Springs Conservation Park facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Wabma Kadarbu Mound Springs Conservation Park Stuarts Creek, South Australia
IUCN Category III (Natural Monument)
Mound Spring, South Australia
Wabma Kadarbu Mound Springs Conservation Park Location in South Australia
Nearest town or city	Marree
Established	18 July 1996 (1996-07-18)
Area	120.16 km2 (46.4 sq mi)
Visitation	12,000 - 19,000 (in 2012)
Managing authorities	Arabana aboriginal people Department for Environment and Water
See also	Protected areas of South Australia

The Wabma Kadarbu Mound Springs Conservation Park is a special place in South Australia. It is a protected area, which means it's a place kept safe to protect nature and history. The park is about 130 kilometers (80 miles) north of a town called Marree. You can find it in a region known as the Far North of South Australia.

This park was officially created in 1996. It is managed by two groups working together: the Arabana Aboriginal people and the Department for Environment and Water. This is called a co-management agreement.

The name "Wabma Kadarbu" comes from the Arabana language. It means "snake's head." This name refers to a local hill called Hamilton Hill, which looks like a snake's head.

What Makes This Park Special?

This park is famous for its amazing "mound springs." These are natural springs where water from deep underground pushes up to the surface. This water comes from a huge underground water source called the Great Artesian Basin. The park also protects the old ruins of a worker's cottage from a railway stop.

The Amazing Mound Springs

The mound springs are the main attraction here. They are like natural fountains that have been flowing for thousands of years. The water from these springs is often warm and full of minerals. Over time, these minerals build up, forming small hills or "mounds" around the springs.

Some of the well-known mound springs in the park include:

• "Pitha - Kurnti - Kurnti" at Coward Springs
• "Thirrka," also known as "Blanche Cup"
• "Pirdali–nha," also known as "The Bubbler"
• "Wabma Kadarbu" at Hamilton Hill

Visiting the Park

When you visit Wabma Kadarbu Mound Springs Conservation Park, you'll find things to help you explore. There are car parks at each spring, so it's easy to get around. Boardwalks have been built to protect the delicate spring areas and help visitors walk safely. There are also viewing platforms where you can get a great look at the springs. Signs around the park explain more about its history and nature.

The park is classified as an IUCN Category III protected area. This means it's recognized internationally for protecting important natural features.