Chambers Pillar Historical Reserve is in Northern Territory in Australia, on the edge of the Simpson Desert.
Chambers Pillar was discovered in 1860 by John McDouall Stuart, the first explorer to successfully cross Australia. It is a 50m formation rising above the surrounding flat desert plains. It was used as an important landmark for early explorers of the area, and it still bears the graffiti of some of them.
Chambers Pillar was named after one James Chambers, who was a sponsor of John McDouall Stuarts expedition. It was first record by McDouall Stuart in April of 1860.
Chambers Pillar is 160km South of Alice Springs, along the Old South Road. The road is unsealed, and does require a 4WD as it is quite sandy, and there are deep Sand Drifts further down as well as steep Jump ups when crossing rivers.
Like most attractions in Central Australia, the best time to visit are during the cooler months of April to September, but as rain is common, you should check with authorities before setting out.
You are traveling in a remote area. Ensure you carry plenty of water, as well as a decent hat, sunscreen and suitable clothing!
Camping Fees are payable at the Honesty Box at the start of the walking track to the Pillar. Park rangers regularly patrol the park and check camping permits.
Chambers Pillar. A sandstone formation that gives the name to the Chambers Pillar Historical Reserve, in the Northern Territory in Australia, on the edge of the Simpson Desert. The tough 4WD drive and the desert views make for a nice day trip from Alice Springs. From the parking, a 30 minutes walk brings you to and around the pillar. There are two particular spots indicated for the sunrise and sunset where the sun directly reflects over the pillar. The view from the pillar over the surrounding desert is purely breathtaking.
There are no facilities, bring your own food.
We are in the desert here. Take plenty of water with you, even for the short walk to the pillar. The track to the pillar from Maryvale is quite remote, if you have any mechanical problem there you would have to wait some time before anyone comes by so take some extra food and water just in case. In case you DO run into mechanical trouble, do not leave your car.
From the Pillar, the only solution is to head back to Maryvale Station. Between Maryvale and Alice Springs, you can make a stop at the Ewaninga Rock Carvings.