Exploring the Dry Creek Salt Crystallisation Pans

Written by: Cameron Ward

Published: 05/19/2017

Reading time: 2 mins

Just outside of Adelaide near the Barossa Valley, Dry Creek sprawls out in a parched display of industrial suburban life.

Though the surrounding region of the Barossa Valley is well-known for its lush greenery and abundance of picturesque wineries, Dry Creek offers a different landscape for visitors.

In this part of the area there are wetlands that unfold in every direction. At one point in time the region was solely devoted to salt crystallisation pans, which are managed by Ridley Corporation. Over the past few years, Dry Creek has popped up in the news on numerous occasions. The corporation that owns it plans to redevelop the entire are for housing, tapping into its industrial suburban past.

The Dry Creek Wetlands

They consist of several areas that run from the eastern edges of the suburb to Dry Creek. Together, these areas make up part of a large storm water management system. This system services Salisbury and the City of Port Adelaide Enfield.

They connect up numerous drains throughout the sprawling scenery of the Adelaide Plains. Additionally, the wetlands act as the outflow point for the storm water pipes. Some areas of the wetlands have been landscaped, but even today they still only have limited public access.

What to See at Dry Creek Salt Crystallisation Pans

  • The Plant Life in Dry Creek

    The wetlands are a hotbed of flora, with many opportunities to spot ancient, native plant life while you’re exploring. It hosts one of the most southerly mangrove habitats in the world, as well as other notable sights like extensive reed and samphire beds.

  • The Animal Life in Dry Creek

    As well as an abundance of exciting plant life, the region is home to numerous different animal species, particularly large bird and fish populations. The fish leave the North Arm Creek and swim into the Gulf of St Vincent, which has also been named as an Important Bird Area. Keep your eyes peeled for wetland migratory species as you go.

Exploring the Salt Crystallisation Pans gives you the chance to discover a different side to Australia, one that seems far removed from the lush green landscape of the Barossa Valley, which sits just a few kilometres away. It’s ideal for nature lovers who are looking to spot some of Australia’s wetland species.

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.