Apply for permits or just wing it???

Most places that require 'transit permits' require them to be applied for in advance. The National Parks often have an 'honour' systme for Overnight camping within parks which you can "self Register" on site. But access permits you will need in advance.

For Innamincka you need a desert park pass. In the NT you are ok in the east / west ranges without a pass but most have camping fees as mentioned above.
Not sure about the plenty but the trek info (look at the banner) will have that info

I have allways had permits but never ever been asked to produce it or even asked if I have a permit.Has anyone else been chatted about it and what happens if you don't have a permit.
Regards Scoof

Laura,
I am not aware of any permits that you need at all, depending on where you stay at Innamincka. When there I stay out of town and buy a one night permit from the store. There is an area nearby where permits are not required.
Permits are not required for those roads.
Ian

I believe you need a Desert Parks pass to camp at Coongie Lake or Cullyamurra Waterhole. Give the ranger station at Innamincka a call. Town Common was around $5 but it gets pretty crowded in the school holidays.

Laura,

From the description of your route, the only one you should need is the Desert Parks Pass. This pass is not your average "you need it to come onto my land" crap, but is an informative kit, with great outback maps including points of interest for general reference. This documentation gives an informative overview of desert regions and how you should best live and travel in it to reduce adverse impact on the environment as well as enjoy the experience. The funds raised are put back into improving facilities for future visitors. (or so we are told)

The only other permit you may need (although this does get up my wick) is a Mereenie Loop pass if you intend traveling from Kings Canyon to Hermannsburg and through the West McDonnell Ranges to Alice Springs, without having to backtrack along the Ernest Giles Road. I guess though when it is put into perspective, this only costs a few dollars and can be obtained from either end at the time of travel.

As for anything else?
Who's going to stop you and arrest you if you haven't got a "permit"?
If you find yourself in this unlikely situation, just plead ignorant.

Enjoy you trip!

Laura

You do not need any permits or passes for yopur proposed journey.

You do NOT need a Desert Parks Pass to visit Innamincka. However if you want to visit the parks and reserves in the Innamincka area you will need a camping permit

As mentioned, most National Parks in the NT, and SA for that matter, have self registrations and an 'honour' system and a 'dishonesty' box....lol

wing it!

It should be a simple decision ..... if you are going somewhere that requires a permit, buy one, if you aren't, don't.