The reserve is located about 162 kilometres south of Alice Springs via Maryvale Station and contains a diversity of features which together comprise its heritage significance. Located in an area of relative isolation the features within the Reserve have a total aesthetic appeal with strong spiritual and historic associations. The Pillar and its spectacular column shape has become a national landmark since it was first encountered by John McDouall Stuart's Exploration Party in 1860. Stuart named the feature in honour of James Chambers who together with William Finke had been great supporters of his expedition.
Numerous inscriptions record the initials of people who have passed by.
Many have since been recognised as having made a significant contribution to the history of the Territory whereas others represent the diversity of occupations existing and required during the formative years of the Territory's development. The first known inscriptions were made by members of the Port Darwin Telegraph Expeditions of 1870, followed by various members of the actual Overland Telegraph construction parties in 1871 or people associated with its maintenance. The names of the pioneer Hayes family, pastoralists who held vast tracts of surrounding land, travellers, policemen and explorers are also represented. The 1890 inquiry into conditions at Hermannsburg Mission and the 3rd Barclay-MacPherson Expedition of 1911 also provided the opportunity for its members to leave records of their passing. In local Aboriginal tradition, Chambers Pillar is Itirkawarar, a knob-tailed gecko spirit ancestor.