The city of Broken Hill lies within these ranges.

Their topography is slightly higher ground lying between lower lands along the Darling River and in South Australia.

The ranges contain numerous mineral deposits, most notably Broken Hill.

It was reported in October 1856 that "within the last year or two numerous sheep-stations have been opened in the Barrier Ranges, affording a reasonable prospect, not only of increased pastoral wealth, but also of the gradual development of the mineral resources of the district and its ultimate settlement.

"[5] In 1844, during his third and final expedition, Charles Sturt named the range "Stanley's Barrier Range" in honour of Lord Stanley.