Steve and Ben head off early today, and the rest of us decide to do a couple of short walks in Watarrka National Park before we head to Ayers Rock campground.

Our first walk is the Kings Creek Walk, which follows the valley floor into the canyon. It is absolutely gorgeous. There’s more water in the creek than we’ve seen before, and lots of birds around.

Next stop was the Kathleen Springs Walk, which leads to a waterhole. There were historical points of interest along the walk from the days when stock was moved through the area. We had our picnic lunch here and then onto Uluru!!

Our last stop for the day was Curtin Springs – it’s a station on the way to Uluru – we thought we’d see if they sold takeaway alcohol, as we know it’s not available at Ayers Rock Resort. We managed to get a case of very over-priced beer! 🙂

We manage to snag a great campsite at Ayers Rock Campground, right on the edge of the park with the sand dunes in behind. We have some visitors during the evening … very cute Spinifex Hopping Mice … although they do give you a bit of a fright if they run over your feet …

We could see Uluru in the distance as we drove into the park – everyone is very excited for our bike ride around the rock tomorrow!!

Our sad news for the day is that Steve and Ben have decided to call it a day and head home early 🙁 They have been having electrical problems and are struggling to keep the fridge cold, plus a few other general travel related dramas. It has been great travelling together 🙂