Gold at its raw state

The Kalgoorlie Super Pit, officially known as the Fimiston Open Pit, is one of the largest open-cut gold mines in the world, located in Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Western Australia. It’s a massive scar in the earth, stretching about 3.5 kilometers long, 1.5 kilometers wide, and more than 600 meters deep. The pit is a result of the merging of several smaller gold mines that have operated in the area for over a century. Mining operations at the Super Pit started in 1989, and the site has since become an iconic symbol of Western Australia’s rich mining history.

Kalgoorlie-Boulder, the town surrounding the Super Pit, was founded during the gold rush of the late 19th century and remains a hub for mining activity. It retains much of its historic charm, with heritage buildings, hotels, and saloons that evoke the rough-and-tumble days of the gold rush. The town is also home to a diverse community of people who are involved in mining, services, and tourism. The Mining Hall of Fame and various heritage tours attract visitors eager to learn more about the area’s rich gold mining history.

The surrounding landscape is typical of the Eastern Goldfields region, with a mix of arid desert plains, scrubland, and salt lakes. The Super Pit itself can be viewed from a lookout point that gives a breathtaking perspective on the sheer scale of the operation, with giant haul trucks appearing like tiny dots as they navigate the vast mine.

Traveling to the Kalgoorlie Super Pit by campervan is a great way to explore the region at your own pace, with the added bonus of flexibility in where you stay. Here’s how you can get there:

1. Route from Perth

The drive from Perth to Kalgoorlie is around 600 kilometers (370 miles) and takes approximately 6-7 hours via the Great Eastern Highway. Here’s what you can expect on the way:

Starting from Perth: Head east on the Great Eastern Highway.
Towns along the way: You’ll pass through towns such as Northam, Merredin, and Southern Cross. These are good spots to refuel, grab a meal, or stretch your legs.
Coolgardie: Before reaching Kalgoorlie, you’ll drive through Coolgardie, another historic gold mining town worth a stop for a quick visit.

2. Campervan Stops

Along the Great Eastern Highway, there are several caravan parks, campgrounds, and rest stops where you can park your campervan. These include:

Caravan Parks in Merredin and Southern Cross: Both towns offer basic amenities and powered sites.
Coolgardie Caravan Park: Located closer to Kalgoorlie, this is a good option if you want to stay near the end of your journey.
Roadhouses: There are also roadhouses with parking spots for campervans if you want to break up the drive into shorter sections.

3. Arrival in Kalgoorlie

Once you reach Kalgoorlie-Boulder, there are several caravan parks where you can park your campervan:

Discovery Parks – Kalgoorlie: Located just a few kilometers from the town center, this park offers powered and unpowered sites, along with other facilities.
Prospector Holiday Park: Also close to the Super Pit, this is another option for campervans with full amenities.
Goldminer Caravan Park: Situated in Boulder, this park provides good access to the Super Pit and other attractions in town.

4. Visiting the Super Pit

The Super Pit Lookout is just a short drive from the town center. After parking your campervan at your chosen caravan park, you can drive to the lookout or even join a tour if you prefer. There’s ample parking at the lookout, so you’ll have no trouble taking in the view.

Tips for Campervan Travel:

Fuel: Ensure you refuel at major stops like Merredin, Southern Cross, or Coolgardie, as service stations can be sparse in between.
Road Conditions: The Great Eastern Highway is sealed and in good condition, but it can be long and desolate, so be prepared with food, water, and other supplies.
Weather: Temperatures can be extreme, especially in summer, so make sure your campervan is equipped for the heat.

With a campervan, you’ll enjoy the freedom to explore the goldfields region at your leisure while staying close to nature!