Plenty Highway Part 1 - Gemtree Roadhouse; Marshall River Rest Stop; Jervois Station

The Plenty Highway is an unsealed outback road in the Northern Territory (NT), Australia, stretching approximately 498 kilometres from the Stuart Highway near Alice Springs to the Queensland border, where it connects with the Donohue Highway. It forms part of an alternative route between Alice Springs and Queensland, often referred to as the Outback Way, which extends all the way to Winton and Boulia.
This remote highway traverses the rugged red desert landscapes of Central Australia, offering travellers stunning views of vast plains, spinifex grasslands, rocky outcrops, and dry riverbeds. The road passes by Harts Range (Atitjere), Jervois Station, and several Aboriginal communities, as well as cattle stations that define the region’s pastoral heritage.
The Plenty Highway is mostly gravel and dirt, with some sections corrugated or sandy, making it best suited for 4WD vehicles. Road conditions vary depending on the weather, and heavy rains can cause flooding and washouts, making sections impassable. Travelers should carry ample fuel, water, and supplies, as services are limited along the route.
For those looking for free camping, two well-known spots along the Plenty Highway are Marshall River Free Camp and Dillbury’s Free Camp. Marshall River Free Camp is located near a dry riverbed, offering a peaceful bush setting with plenty of space for camping. Dillbury’s Free Camp provides another convenient stopover for self-sufficient travellers needing a break from the long drive.
A notable roadside attraction along the Plenty Highway is a huge termite mound, standing tall as an impressive example of nature’s engineering. These towering structures, built by termites over many years, are a common sight in the outback, but this particular mound is especially large and often stops travellers in their tracks for a photo opportunity.
Further along the highway, near the Queensland border, is Tobermorey Station, a historic cattle station that also serves as a popular stopover for travellers. Tobermorey offers fuel, basic supplies, and camping facilities, making it an essential rest point for those continuing into Queensland on the Donohue Highway. The station provides a glimpse into the region’s pastoral history, with vast open landscapes and a friendly outback atmosphere.
Despite its remoteness, the Plenty Highway is popular among adventurers seeking an authentic outback experience, providing access to the East MacDonnell Ranges, fossicking areas like Gemtree, and the remote Simpson Desert. Wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and dingoes, is common along the highway.
For those prepared for an off-road journey, the Plenty Highway offers a unique and scenic drive through the heart of Australia’s Red Centre.