Coward Springs

Coward Springs is an enchanting desert oasis is nestled along the Oodnadatta Track, right next to the Wabma Kadarbu Mound Springs Conservation Park. Perhaps the most extraordinary aspect of the location is its natural spa, ingeniously designed as a mini pool and replenished by the bores. The water is a delightful twenty-nine degrees Celsius and brimming with mineral salts.

Once a train station on the Ghan railway line, the facilities here were constructed using recycled railway materials, and many restored heritage buildings, including a museum, are part of this delightful site. It also served as a watering hole for the Overland Telegraph Line back in the late 19th century. In 1858, the South Australian Commissioner of Police, Peter Warburton, bestowed the name Coward Springs in honour of Corporal Thomas Coward.

The land surrounding Coward Springs is traditionally owned by the Kuyani, Arabana, or Arrernte peoples, representing the three tribes along the Oodnadatta Track.