
Lake Ballard
A surreal outback art gallery where 51 steel sculptures stand sentinel on a vast salt lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild temperatures, firm ground

Lake Ballard
Best Time
Mild temperatures, firm ground
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A surreal outback art gallery where 51 steel sculptures stand sentinel on a vast salt lake.
"An art gallery like no other, where 51 sculptures cast intriguing shadows across the vast pink landscape."

🚗 Plan Your Drive
It's a 2-hour drive from Kalgoorlie. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for outback travel.
🚶♀️ Explore the Sculptures
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the salt flats to find all 51 figures.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Inside Australia Sculptures
Lake Ballard Salt Flats
51 striking steel figures scattered across a vast salt lake, creating an otherworldly art installation.

Sunrise Serenity
Lake Ballard
Witness the golden morning light illuminate the sculptures and the vast, silent landscape.

Panoramic Outback Views
Rocky Hill overlooking Lake Ballard
Climb the hill for a breathtaking vista of the salt lake and its scattered artistic inhabitants.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outback Journey
Art Meets Vastness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Plan Your Drive
It's a 2-hour drive from Kalgoorlie. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for outback travel.
🚶♀️ Explore the Sculptures
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the salt flats to find all 51 figures.
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Sunrise and sunset offer magical light for photography and viewing the art.
🏕️ Overnight Camping
Self-contained vehicles are welcome. Facilities include drop toilets and a dump point.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Plan Your Drive
It's a 2-hour drive from Kalgoorlie. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for outback travel.
🚶♀️ Explore the Sculptures
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the salt flats to find all 51 figures.
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Sunrise and sunset offer magical light for photography and viewing the art.
🏕️ Overnight Camping
Self-contained vehicles are welcome. Facilities include drop toilets and a dump point.
🚫 Leave No Trace
Respect the environment; avoid writing on rocks or leaving any litter.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the surreal beauty of Lake Ballard, where Antony Gormley's 'Inside Australia' sculptures create a unique artistic landscape. The remote outback setting and the opportunity for free camping are major draws. However, some find the artwork repetitive, and the long drive can be a deterrent for some.
"Camp amongst the dune flats and watch the sun set behind the sculptures. Easy access for vans, campers and Winnebagos with some drop toilets, bins and a dump point. Walk out across the salt flats and wander amongst the many indigenous sculptures. The more adventurous can climb the rocky hill for a great view."
Jennie McKern
"Visited Lake Ballard in late April. This is important because it wasnt peak summer heat and the temp was mild. Also we could walk around on firm ground without sinking into mud. Absolutely awesome experience. Unforgettable. Go see it. A bit of a trip to get there….2hrs drive north west out of Kalgoorlie but totally worth it."
Peter Cope
"Stunning place to either visit for the day or stay overnight in your fully self contained caravan or similar. ( dump point available).
Prepare for some long walks if your going to visit all the randomly placed sculptures!"
SimSals Epic Adventures
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Ballard is a significant drive from Perth, approximately 9 hours. The most common route is via Kalgoorlie, which is about a 6-hour drive from Perth. From Kalgoorlie, it's another 2-hour drive northwest to reach Lake Ballard. Ensure your vehicle is well-equipped for outback conditions.
While the main road to Lake Ballard is generally accessible, conditions can vary, especially after rain. It's always recommended to check local road conditions before you travel. For the best experience and peace of mind, a 4WD or a vehicle suitable for unsealed roads is preferable.
The closest major town with services is Kalgoorlie, which is about a 2-hour drive away. It's advisable to stock up on fuel, water, and any supplies you might need before heading to Lake Ballard, as services are limited in the immediate vicinity.
There are no direct flights to Lake Ballard. The nearest airport with regular services is in Kalgoorlie. From Kalgoorlie, you would still need to drive the remaining distance.
The drive to Lake Ballard involves some unsealed roads. While often firm, they can become challenging after rain. The salt lake surface itself is generally firm enough to walk on, especially outside of peak summer heat.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry fee to visit Lake Ballard or to view the 'Inside Australia' sculptures. It is a public space managed by the local government.
Lake Ballard is accessible 24/7, as it is an outdoor art installation and natural landscape. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to fully appreciate the sculptures and scenery.
No booking is required for general visits to Lake Ballard. It's a free-access public attraction. If you plan to camp overnight, ensure you have all necessary self-sufficient camping gear.
While there aren't typically official guided tours, local information centers or tour operators in the Goldfields region might offer excursions that include Lake Ballard. It's best to check with tourism bodies in Western Australia.
Basic facilities are available for overnight visitors, including drop toilets, bins, and a dump point for self-contained vehicles. There are no shops or other amenities on-site.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset are spectacular for photography at Lake Ballard. The low-angle light creates dramatic shadows from the sculptures and bathes the salt lake in warm hues. Midday can be harsh, but the starkness also has its own appeal.
Drone usage is generally permitted at Lake Ballard, provided you adhere to all relevant aviation regulations and privacy considerations. Some creators have captured stunning aerial footage. Always check current regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the salt lake and the spread of the sculptures. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating individual figures. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset.
Yes, you can walk among the sculptures and photograph them from various angles. Be respectful of the artwork and the environment.
The combination of Antony Gormley's striking sculptures against the surreal, vast expanse of the salt lake creates a unique and often haunting photographic subject. The changing light and weather conditions add further drama.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Seeing all 51 sculptures requires a significant amount of walking, as they are spread out over a large area. It can take several hours to explore thoroughly, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at each one.
Yes, it is generally safe to walk on the salt lake, especially outside of the hottest summer months when the surface is firmer. Be aware of your surroundings and wear appropriate footwear.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or boots suitable for uneven terrain. Light, breathable clothing is recommended, along with a hat and sunscreen for sun protection. Bring layers as temperatures can change.
There are no formal hiking trails, but the entire salt lake area is open for exploration. You can wander freely among the sculptures. Climbing the rocky hill provides a great vantage point.
It's a permanent outdoor art installation by British artist Antony Gormley, featuring 51 cast-iron figures that were originally placed across the salt lake. They are designed to blend into the landscape and create a sense of scale and isolation.
🎫 🏕️ Camping & Facilities
Yes, overnight camping is permitted for self-contained vehicles like caravans and RVs. There are basic facilities available, including drop toilets, bins, and a dump point.
Campers will find drop toilets, rubbish bins, and a dump point. There are no powered sites, water sources, or other services, so you must be fully self-sufficient.
Accommodation options are very limited in the immediate vicinity of Lake Ballard. The closest town with hotels and motels is Kalgoorlie, which is about a 2-hour drive away.
Bring all your food, water, fuel, and any other essentials. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and you have a way to manage waste, as facilities are basic.
Camping at Lake Ballard is free for self-contained vehicles. It's a great option for budget travelers looking to experience the outback.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families: Pack plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. Ensure children wear sturdy shoes for walking on the salt flats. While there are no specific playgrounds, the open space provides room for kids to move around. Overnight camping is an option for a more immersive experience, but requires full self-sufficiency.
🚗 Road Trippers & Van Lifers
Key advice for road trippers: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for outback travel. Stock up on fuel and supplies in Kalgoorlie before heading to the lake. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering a glimpse into the vast Australian landscape.
📸 Art & Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the landscape and a tripod for low-light shots. Drone photography can offer spectacular aerial perspectives of the installation. Be prepared to spend several hours exploring and capturing the unique interplay between art and nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Antony Gormley: Inside Australia
The figures are cast from Gormley's own body and are designed to blend into the environment, appearing like distant observers or ancient relics. Their placement is deliberately random, encouraging visitors to wander and discover them, making the experience of exploring Lake Ballard a personal journey of discovery. The interplay of light and shadow on the sculptures throughout the day adds a dynamic element to the static art.
This unique outdoor gallery has become a significant drawcard for the Goldfields region, transforming a natural salt lake into a world-class art destination. It's a powerful example of how art can interact with and enhance natural landscapes, creating unforgettable experiences for visitors.
Navigating the Outback: Travel and Camping
For those wishing to stay overnight, Lake Ballard offers free camping for self-contained vehicles. This means you need to bring everything you need, including food, water, and power. Basic facilities like drop toilets, bins, and a dump point are provided, but there are no other amenities. This setup is ideal for those who enjoy van life and a truly immersive outback experience.
When planning your visit, consider the season. Visiting during the cooler months, such as April to September, is highly recommended. This avoids the extreme summer heat and ensures the salt lake surface is firm enough to walk on comfortably, making exploration much more enjoyable.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit