Carrieton and Johnburg
Carrieton and Johnburg – Exploring on Two Wheels
We spent the weekend based at a mate’s bush block near Carrieton, a quiet little town in South Australia’s Flinders Ranges. With no set plans, we took the opportunity to explore the area on the motorbike, winding through backroads and old settlements that barely make it onto the map.
Carrieton itself is small but has a strong community feel. The pub is the heart of the town, a spot where locals and travellers alike share stories over a drink. We stopped in for a cold one and a chat before heading off on the bike. The old railway station and a few heritage buildings hint at Carrieton’s past when it was once a more bustling stop on the line. These days, it’s best known for its annual rodeo, which draws in a crowd from all over.
Riding out towards Johnburg, the landscape shifted. The road turned to dirt, the countryside opened up, and we found ourselves surrounded by rolling hills and vast paddocks. Johnburg is a ghost town now, with only a few ruins left standing. The old church, built in the late 1800s, is the most intact building, a reminder of when this place had a small but thriving community.
We parked up and wandered around, taking in what remained. The silence out here is something else—just the sound of the wind and the occasional bird call. It’s hard to imagine that this once had enough people to warrant a church and a school. Nature has started reclaiming what’s left, with grass pushing through old stone walls and trees growing where homes once stood.
The ride back to Carrieton took us through open plains and low hills, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows over the landscape. There’s a beauty in the simplicity of this part of the country—no crowds, no rush, just endless space and a connection to the past.
Back at the bush block, we settled in around the fire, sharing a few beers and watching the stars come out. It was the perfect end to a weekend of exploring places most people drive straight past. Carrieton and Johnburg might not be on the usual tourist trail, but for us, that’s exactly what made them worth visiting.
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Carrieton and Johnburg
Carrieton sits quietly on the edge of South Australia’s Flinders Ranges, a small outback town with a big sense of place. It’s known for its rodeo heritage, classic stone buildings, and the wide, open skies that stretch for miles in every direction. Nearby, the old townsite of Johnburg tells another story of settlement, drought, and resilience, its few remaining buildings standing as reminders of a harder time.
How to Get There
Carrieton lies about 300 kilometres north of Adelaide, on the RM Williams Way between Orroroo and Hawker. The road is sealed and easy to follow, winding through rolling pastoral country. The small settlement of Johnburg is approximately 20 kilometres east of Carrieton, accessible via unsealed back roads, which are suitable for 4WD vehicles or motorbikes in dry conditions.
What to see, Tours and Activities
What we did:
Wandered through Carrieton’s historic main street, admiring the old stone architecture and town charm.
Visited the Rodeo Grounds, home of the annual Carrieton Rodeo — one of the most famous country events in South Australia.
Took a ride out towards Johnburg, exploring the quiet rural landscape and remains of its old buildings.
Other highlights you might explore:
Carrieton Caravan Park & Campground – A peaceful place to stay, with friendly locals and great stargazing.
Carrieton Heritage Centre – Small displays of photos and memorabilia from the town’s early years.
Nearby Orroroo & Pekina – Towns with similar outback character, full of heritage charm.
Flinders Ranges Scenic Drive – Just a short drive north, offering access to breathtaking gorges and lookouts.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Carrieton is from April to October when the weather is mild and pleasant for exploring. The annual Carrieton Rodeo in late December draws big crowds, but temperatures often soar past 40°C — so come prepared if you’re travelling in summer.
Final Thoughts
Carrieton and nearby Johnburg are small, quiet stops that give you a glimpse of real country life. There’s not a lot happening, and that’s the appeal — a simple, honest snapshot of outback South Australia without the fuss.
What’s Nearby
We reached Carrieton after staying at Pandurra Station, following the long, dry tracks north. From here, we continued towards Leigh Creek, watching the land shift from rolling farmland to the stony edges of the Flinders Ranges.
Fast Facts – Carrieton
Location: Carrieton, Flinders Ranges region, SA
Distance from Orroroo: 37 km north via RM Williams Way (B83)
Traditional Owners: Adnyamathanha people
Access: Fully sealed road, suitable for all vehicles and motorhomes
Facilities: Caravan park, campground, public toilets, local hall, heritage centre
Dog Friendly: Allowed at the caravan park and most public areas; must be on leash within the township
Walking Track: Short self-guided heritage walk through the main street and surrounds
Best Time to Visit: April to October for mild weather and active local events, including the Carrieton Rodeo
Fast Facts – Johnburgh
Location: Johnburgh, Southern Flinders Ranges, SA
Distance from Carrieton: 24 km northeast via Johnburgh Road (unsealed)
Traditional Owners: Adnyamathanha people
Access: Mostly unsealed road suitable for 2WD in dry weather and motorhomes with care
Facilities: No formal facilities; limited parking and open access near heritage ruins
Dog Friendly: Allowed throughout the area; no formal facilities, so ensure dogs are under control at all times
Walking Track: Informal wandering among old stone buildings and rural tracks
Best Time to Visit: April to September for cooler days and clearer travel conditions
From Carrieton’s quiet streets to the backroads of the Flinders, we’re still following the trail north
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