Karlu Karlu / Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve

Karlu Karlu, better known as the Devils Marbles, is an iconic conservation reserve about 100 km south of Tennant Creek. Scattered across a wide, shallow valley are hundreds of huge, rounded granite boulders – some standing alone, others stacked precariously atop each other, often in seemingly gravity-defying positions:contentReference[oaicite:116]{index=116}. These boulders formed millions of years ago and have been shaped by erosion into the "marbles" seen today. They range from less than a meter to several meters in diameter. The reserve is of great cultural significance to Aboriginal traditional owners, who know it as Karlu Karlu, meaning "round boulders" in the local language. Many Dreaming stories are associated with this place, and it remains an important sacred site. Visitors can wander among the marbles on short informal paths – each turn reveals new formations and balanced rocks. The sight is especially magical at sunrise and sunset, when the granite glows deep red and orange against the sky (the reserve’s campground allows overnight stays to experience this). Facilities are minimal: a simple campground with pit toilets, fire pits, and picnic shelter is provided near the boulders (small fee applies for camping). There is also an information display detailing the geological formation and cultural meanings of Karlu Karlu. Climbing on the rocks is generally discouraged out of respect, but there’s plenty of opportunity to explore at ground level and take photography. At night, the area can be surreal under bright moonlight or a blanket of stars. The Devils Marbles are one of the most photographed natural features in the NT – a must-see for travelers on the Stuart Highway – and standing among them, it’s easy to feel the powerful presence and wonder that this special place has evoked for generations:contentReference[oaicite:117]{index=117}.