97% (488) • 93 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Northern Territory
Anniversary Ridge Wilderness Park
1. Anniversary Ridge Wilderness Park
100%
(22)
Robin Falls, NT · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Anniversary Ridge Wilderness Park, 600 acres of virgin bush just 3kms north from Robin falls.
The property is ideal for just relaxing off grid whilst still being close to amenities of Adelaide River and surrounds or there are plenty of things to visit nearby with Robin Falls and the southern access to Litchfield just down the road.
There is a wet season creek that flows well into the dry season its shallow and safe enough to cool off with a permanent spring further into the property.
Secluded shady spots spread out along the creek campers will feel like they have plenty of privacy.
There is a large open area close to suitable for small to medium sized off road caravans.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Parson Springs Bush Stay
2. Parson Springs Bush Stay
96%
(69)
Berry Springs, NT · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Parson Springs Bush Stay – Tranquil Camping at the Gateway to Litchfield
Escape to Parson Springs Bush Stay, a peaceful bush retreat in Berry Springs, NT—perfectly located to explore Litchfield National Park, Berry Springs Nature Park, and more.
Set among shady native bush, our five private campsites offer space, privacy, and an authentic Top End camping experience. Whether you're travelling solo, as a couple, or with a group, we’ve got a site that suits your style.
🏕️ Campsites
Termiteria – The most secluded site, located beside a towering termite mound. Water tank, fire pit, and afternoon shade. Best for one large caravan or camper.
Bush Apple – Spacious and group-friendly, fits up to four vans. Surrounded by native Bush Apple trees with seasonal bush tucker (Nov–Dec). No water currently. Sun exposure varies.
Turkey Bush – A large, open site perfect for families, friends, or solo travellers wanting space. Water and fire pit included. Full sun if set up in the centre.
Woollybutt – Fully shaded throughout the day and ideal for tents or camper trailers. Includes water tank and fire pit. Peaceful and private.
Grevillea – Tucked into dense bush with full shade mornings and afternoons. Drive-through access, great for group bookings. No water at this site.
🚿 Facilities
Water tanks at most sites
Sprinklers to reduce dust
Fire pits at each site
Pet-friendly (please keep pets close due to nearby livestock)
Coded gate access for secure, worry-free stays
📍 Nearby (within 10 mins)
Barramundi Adventures Darwin (3 min)
Berry Springs Tavern & Nature Park
Litchfield Pub, Southport & Middle Arm boat ramps
Tumbling Waters & Territory Wildlife Park
🚗 Day Trips (up to 1 hr 20 mins)
Litchfield waterfalls, Dundee Beach, Crab Claw Island, Darwin CBD, Manton Dam, Batchelor, Corroboree Billabong & more
Come unwind under the stars at Parson Springs—your peaceful, private base for NT adventures.
Pets
Campfires
Water hookup
The Flower Farm
3. The Flower Farm
100%
(21)
Humpty Doo, NT · 5 sites
Welcome! Come and stay at a quiet and shady site on our breezy 5 acre flower farm. Grassy sites with access to power and lovely bore water. Every site has a power chord and hose (or tap) right at the site for you to connect to your caravan. Well behaved pets and kids are welcome!
The local shopping centre is 5 minutes away with post office, newsagent, butcher, baker and Woolworths. The Coolalinga markets are close by and open on Saturdays.
Located 30 mins from Darwin, this is the perfect place to base yourself for day trips to Litchfield and Kakadu National Parks.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Fernee Retreat
4. Fernee Retreat
Stapleton, NT · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Approximately 10 acres for tent campers, rooftop campers, camper trailers, caravans/RV's situated next to a peaceful rainforest with a walking track to the constant flowing Stapleton creek.
We currently do not offer toilets, showers or laundry facilities, so these sites are suitable for self-contained campers.
Approximately 15 minutes drive to Adelaide River township for fuel, grocery supplies, dump point.
25 minutes to Batchelor, 40 minutes to Litchfield National Park.
Pets
Two Rivers Campground
5. Two Rivers Campground
97%
(17)
Tumbling Waters, NT · 5 sites
Welcome to our peaceful bush campground just 40 minutes from Darwin!
** Check what’s happening at camp now: https://www.instagram.com/2riverscampground/
**Must be fully self-contained *Must have shower//toilet
**Powered/Unpowered // Water // Dump Point
** Kids - stay for free!
--Message hosts to confirm availability as they use multiple online booking platforms--
Tucked away on a quiet 25-acre block, our private campground is the perfect base to explore the Top End. Set up your fully self-contained vehicle on a powered or unpowered site, enjoy fresh pump-driven water (with plenty of pressure), a washing machine, dump point, and plenty of space to relax. We’re "friendly dog" friendly—and family friendly too (no extra charge for kids!). Take a stroll around the block, visit the veggie patch, feed the chickens, wander through native bushland to spot magnetic termite mounds and local flora and fauna, or just kick back under the stars. With land-based fishing and crabbing spots a short walk across the road or boat ramp 2 mins away, try your hand at some fishing! Within 10 minutes, you’ll find everything you need: local IGA, hardware store, cafe, tavern, post office, pharmacy, medical centre and hair dresser. Cool off with a swim or picnic at Berry Springs (6 mins), spot wildlife at The Territory Wildlife Park (5 mins), day trip to Litchfield (30 mins) or Kakadu (90 mins). Darwin city is just a 40-minute drive. The hosts are happy to share local tips to help you make the most of your NT adventure.
Note: Fully self-contained vehicles only. Bookings essential.
***IMPORTANT DIRECTIONS***
Are you arriving from Dundee or Litchfield???
- There are two ways to get to Two Rivers. One road is IMPASSABLE
- Ensure you travel to Mira Road via Southport Road.
DIRECTIONS: From Cox Peninsula Rd, turn onto Southport Rd. Drive to the T-junction at the end and turn left onto Mira Road. We’re the first proper gate on the left (230 Mira Road).
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Crooked Creek
6. Crooked Creek
83%
(6)
Bees Creek, NT · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
After travelling Australia ourselves, we wanted to create a cost effective and spacious area to relax, recharge, and enjoy the great outdoors. Offering 3 self-contained campsites nestled beside a gentle creek surrounded by natural shade.
Located just 30 minutes from the city and only 1 hour from Litchfield National Park, it’s a great base to explore the Top End while enjoying the quiet of the bush.
Our camp offers privacy, tranquility, and space to spread out — whether you’re in a van, camper, or tent.
Our vision is to slowly create a large space for campers offering bathroom and washing machines facilities at an affordable price in the near future. 🌿
Potable water
Howard Springs Haven
7. Howard Springs Haven
100%
(149)
Howard Springs, NT · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Enjoy our tropical, secluded oasis and wake up to the sounds of native bird life each morning. As seen on The Feel Good Family season 4 ep. 102 and season 8 ep. 242.
Conveniently located, we're a 30 minute drive from Darwin CBD , 15 minutes from two major shopping centres, 1 hour from Litchfield National Park , 1.5 hours from Kakadu National Park, 20 minutes from the public dump point, and only 5 minutes from the local IGA, chemist and post office, and the family friendly Howard Springs Nature Reserve and excellent pine forest mountain bike trails.
We have only two sites, to give you great privacy and space. The sites are level and grassed, with dedicated water and power access. You are welcome to share our refreshing plunge pool.
Wander the yard to enjoy the gardens or spot small lizards and frogs, pick fresh herbs, tropical flowers. We have fantastic recycling and compost facilities, in a small effort to reduce our collective impact on the environment.
Kids will love having plenty of space to run, ride and explore. There are small lizards and frogs to be hunted, a kids cubby and kitchen, sandpit, swings and a climbing frame (all to be used at your own risk).
You will need to be fully self-contained with your own camping toilet/shower.
No pets please.
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Water hookup
Green Acres
8. Green Acres
98%
(55)
Bynoe, NT · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Green Acres is located in Bynoe, just over an hour and a half drive from Darwin in the Northern Territory. We have five spacious powered sites and plenty of non-powered sites available.
We are close to boat ramps where you can access excellent fresh and salt-water fishing and crabbing.
We are close to both Berry Springs and Litchfield National Park where you can find stunning waterfalls, swimming holes and wildlife to enjoy.
The Sandpalms Roadhouse is a two minute drive away. They offer fuel, a cafe style menu, with special nights for a roast or a woodfired pizza, They are a licensed, family friendly establishment.
There is often wildlife visiting our property so keep an eye out whilst enjoying your time at camp. Enjoy listening to the sounds of nature while sitting around your campfire.
We also have a toilet and shower available for campers. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash upon arrival and under your control at all times. Due to not having an area waste removal program in Bynoe it is appreciated that you take all waste with you.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Top Camp
9. Top Camp
100%
(8)
Humpty Doo, NT · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Hobby farm with cattle/horses/pigs and chickens. Four spacious separate areas set up for each nomad to enjoy their own space. Water, 15amp, free laundry, shared ablution block with one toilet and one shower, dump point, fire pit all surrounded by beautiful green grass. Shaded areas to set up. Beautiful bush walks in immediate area. Kakadu National Park 111km and Litchfield National Park 83km from property location. The famous Humpty Doo Pub is 6.7km and the Humpty Doo Shops, chemist, doctor’s and Post office are 7.3km from property location. Secure fencing for dog (all dogs must be vaccinated and well mannered. Dog poo must be cleaned up after). One site = one vehicle/tent/ motorhome or caravan only. There are a total of 4 sites at Top Camp with plenty of room to spread out. Please do not ask for one site for 2 vehicles etc.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ellengowan Retreat
10. Ellengowan Retreat
100%
(2)
Dundee Downs, NT · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Ellengowan Retreat - Dundee Downs NT.
Our newly established bush campground is only 90 minutes from Darwin and is an ideal spot for travelers and locals alike who want a quiet place to escape the crowds and unwind.
We have relaxed our Pet Policy and now cater for campers with good-mannered and well-behaved dogs on leash.
The top section of our 30 acre property is secure as it is fully fenced.
The community campfire has a ready supply of firewood and is perfect for quiet evening fires under the stars.
A nice place to cool off and relax is the in-ground spa which is fully fenced.
We have 3 powered sites so there is no overcrowding. Plenty of spaces too, for off-grid campers. Our sites are undesignated so you can choose your spot.
Our amenities include a modern toilet block with flushing toilets, solar hot water showers.
The semi-open camp kitchen, complete with fridge, gas BBQ, and a comfortable serving and dining area is available for dining and meal preparation.
Good quality bore water is available at the Camp Kitchen, outside taps and at the toilet block. Please ask should you wish to wash off your boat or clean your catch at the Boat Wash and we can turn the bore on for your use.
The Six Pack Creek boat ramp on Javelin Road is a short distance away from the campground should you want to launch a boat and explore Bynoe Harbour.
"Top Camp walking trail" is a 770m a walk through the unique Territory bushland for seasonal bird watching opportunities as well as native flora and fauna.
Nearby attractions include:
Sand Palms Roadhouse for good pub meals;
Dundee Social & Recreational Club for various activities, meals and the dry season Sunday markets.
Dundee Beach for spectacular sunsets, fishing charters and local weekend markets;
Dundee Beach Tavern has a great vibe and good meals.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Berry Springs - Stockman’s Rest
11. Berry Springs - Stockman’s Rest
100%
(1)
Berry Springs, NT · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Trade the crowded caravan parks for sunsets, stars and a proper taste of Territory life 🌅🐴🐄
Pull up, relax and enjoy our laid-back rural property surrounded by horses, cows, wallabies and plenty of open space. Spend the day cooling off in the large swimming pool, then kick back at night under more stars than you probably knew existed ✨
This isn’t a fancy resort — it’s real Top End country living. Kids still run around, horses still need feeding, cows still moo at inconvenient times and our friendly dogs may wander over to supervise your setup or ask for a pat 🐶😂
If you’re after peace, space and a relaxed country atmosphere while still being close enough to Darwin, you’ll fit right in here.
⚠️ Please note: Because of the livestock and our own dogs, no guest dogs or pets allowed. Our dogs already believe they own the place anyway 🙂
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Showers
Camp Wallaby
12. Camp Wallaby
95%
(73)
Holtze, NT · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Camp Wallaby is set on 10 acres, part natural bush, part open paddock. Quiet secure area on a dead end road. Close to amenities including a large shopping centre 3 minutes away and Bunnings down the road and 20 minutes to the city centre. Must be self contained as no toilet or shower facilities however we can supply water and plenty of firewood.
Check in by 6pm. If after 6pm please advise
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Rum Jungle Ridge
13. Rum Jungle Ridge
100%
(52)
Rum Jungle, NT · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Enter Old North Australia Railway, via Peacock Rd, Darwin River.
NOT BATCHELOR
Google maps taking people the wrong way !
We are 14km along Old North Australia Railway.
Off grid property on 310 acres of beautiful secluded bush.
Just over an hour's drive from Darwin CBD and close to Litchfield National Park via 4WD track
Come explore, relax and pitch your tent. Plenty of shady places to camp along the wet season creek. Must have own amenities and leave no trace Gather your friends or family and head out of town to get away from it all for a night or two...Sleep under the stars, set up camp or bring your camper to unwind and unplug as you reconnect with nature.
Enjoy a bushwalk, a campfire or a swim in the wet season creek or just put your feet up with a book and a cold drink in Darwin's rugged bushland. Large camp sites and caravans welcome. Dog friendly.
There are no amenities here, so suits self-sufficient campers who leave no trace.
Please enter property via Peacock Rd, Darwin River, not Batchelor
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Jeff’s Shed
14. Jeff’s Shed
89%
(9)
Darwin River, NT · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Sorry Jeffs shed is not currently available Jeffs camping is though
Welcome to our wonderful property, where you can bask in the beauty of a Mango tree that offers delicious fruit to be picked and savored when it ripens around October.
Our location is perfectly situated, only 5 kilometers away from the Darwin River Tavern and a supermarket, making it convenient for your needs. Within a 5 to 10-minute drive, you'll find the enchanting Berry Springs, along with shops and a tavern. Immerse yourself in the refreshing swimming holes, visit the wildlife park, go on exciting barramundi adventures, and enjoy fishing at the nearby park—all easily accessible from our property.
If you wish to explore further, it's just a 45-minute drive to Darwin city or a 25-minute drive to Palmerston. For those seeking natural wonders, you can venture to the stunning waterfalls of Litchfield National Park or the popular Dundee beach, each just under an hour's drive away.
At our campsite, you can enjoy the warmth and coziness of campfires in the designated area, though only permitted outside fire danger periods to ensure everyone's safety. And yes, your furry friends are more than welcome to join you on your outdoor adventure. Just remember to bring your own toilet paper for added comfort during your stay.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Fi and Rods Place
15. Fi and Rods Place
100%
(11)
Humpty Doo, NT · 1 site
Welcome to our little slice of the Territory—where the dogs run the show and we just pay the bills.
Just 40 minutes from Darwin CBD and 15 minutes from Coolalinga, our peaceful 5-acre retreat is a tropical haven teeming with wildlife. You'll spot native birds flitting through the trees, a resident frill-necked lizard basking in the sun (although he is a bit shy), and be greeted by three friendly dogs who’ll likely claim you as their own. We also share our space with two gentle horses (always keen for a pat and a carrot or two), and a ginger cat who rules the indoors.
We’re a young couple who’ve called the NT home since 2009, living a laid-back lifestyle and always happy to swap stories over a cold drink as the sun goes down.
During your stay, you’ll have full access to power, water, our refreshing pool with spa jets, and laundry facilities. Mobile reception is excellent, and if you need WiFi, just ask—we’ve got you covered.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Arnhem Acres
16. Arnhem Acres
100%
(1)
Humpty Doo, NT · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Arnhem Acres is a 20 acre property situated on the Arnhem Highway in Humpty Doo - the gate way to Kakadu and also just 3kms from the famous Humpty Doo Hotel!
It is the perfect place to pull up and explore Darwin and its surrounds or sit back and relax in the tropical gardens and enjoy the wild life. You can even feed the Brahman Bull and his mates.
The property has powered and unpowered sites and is accessible for campers, caravans, big rigs or tents and we can accommodate those travelling in groups.
Bookings are essential. We have dogs that live on the property, so pets are on application please.
Hosts are born and bred in Darwin so reach out if want any further information during your stay.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mango Farm Stay
17. Mango Farm Stay
100%
(8)
Tumbling Waters, NT · 4 sites
Just a 45 min drive to Darwin, 30 mins to Litchfield National Park and 5 mins to our beautiful swimming hole at Berry Springs. Set up your self contained caravan or trailer on this working mango farm in beautiful Tumbling Waters.
Sunsets, wallabies and loads of bird life!
There are no facilities here, so campers will need to be self contained and leave no trace.
Litchfield National Park and Mary River National Park are only a short distance from here and feature incredibly diverse landscapes combined with ancient Aboriginal culture.
Or just sit back at camp and relax amongst the mango trees.
Come and enjoy a super relaxing stay.
Pets
Mitchfield on Moonfish DUNDEE Downs
18. Mitchfield on Moonfish DUNDEE Downs
Dundee Downs, NT · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Some of the best fishing in Darwin area, beautiful bush walks, lovely sunsets and camp fires, beach walks and the new hotel with beautiful food n beverage!!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Relax on Bastin
19. Relax on Bastin
94%
(39)
Howard Springs, NT · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Relax on Bastin is situated on a quiet no-through road with Howard Springs and Coolalinga shopping centres only 5 minutes drive and Darwin city only 30 minutes.
The property has ample level space and shaded sites for tent, camper or caravan parking. There are fruit trees and seasonal tropical plants including bananas, pawpaw, pineapple and passionfruit. There is also a seasonal herb and veggie garden with chilli, basil and mint.
Power and hot water are available from the ablution block with a toilet, shower and a washing machine along with a covered communal area including a gas BBQ, fire pits and BBQ plate for campfire cooking.
A short 5-minute drive from shopping centres in Coolalinga and 10 minutes from the Gateway shopping centre in Palmerston. Relax on Bastin is centrally located and it serves as a great base to explore nearby Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks and only half an hour from the Jumping Crocs in the Adelaide River.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Patch
20. The Patch
Marrakai, NT · 1 site · Tent, RV
The Patch.
She is abundant and alive.
She is big, giving that feeling of openess, yet super cute and cosy too.
She has many tropical fruit trees and a ever growing food forest.
Pets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
P
Paul
3 days ago
4 m travel trailer
We stayed at Howard Springs Haven for a week in July on our first trip to the top end. It was a lovely little hideaway that allowed us to base ourselves there and easily travel into Darwin, Berry Springs and Humpty Doo. With only two sites it was very private and peaceful and the hosts were very friendly and helpful. We would definately recommend Howard Springs Haven and would be happy to stay there again.
See moreC
Calley
1 week ago
5 m travel trailer
Wonderful overnight stay, would have stayed longer but fully booked - I can see why! Large site, lovely gardens and friendly host. Definitely recommend.
See more
C
Chelsea
2 weeks ago
7 m travel trailer
With pets
Fiona and Rod were so friendly and accomodating. The site was quiet and spacious and had access to the plunge pool. The kids loved seeing the horses and playing with the friendly dogs. Would definitely recommend!
See more
M
Mel
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Excellent bush camp with a hot shower and toilets. We loved how quiet and peaceful it is, thanks to the host Michael limiting campers. We'll definitely be back.
See more
E
Emma-Louise
2 weeks ago
6 m travel trailer
With kids
We had a wonderful time at Kristy and Clint’s place. The property is beautiful and the site was perfect. Our kids loved roaming around and exploring the garden- they have the most epic kids tree house, mud kitchen, outdoor play area. The pool was lovely and the fire pit area was perfection. We highly recommend staying here :)
See more
d
damian
2 weeks ago
6 m travel trailer
With kids
Great stay, great host, really enjoyed our stay here, would definitely recommend this place.
See moreD
Darren
2 weeks ago
11 m travel trailer
Excellent, very peaceful and private, great location, easy access to everything around you, 30 minutes to Darwin cbd.
Kristy is very accommodating, it literally feels like you have the entire property to yourself.
Thank you so much 😊
See more
R
Renae
2 weeks ago
8 m travel trailer
Camp Wallaby was a beautiful, quiet, laid back camp to stay at whilst seeing all the sights around Darwin. Melissa was very welcoming & so easy going. Would highly recommend anyone to stay here, we loved it. Thanks Melissa.
See more
D
Dianne
2 weeks ago
9 m travel trailer
What a wonderful campground. The camp hosts were so friendly. Had a fantastic experience.
See more
W
Will
3 weeks ago
6 m rooftop tent
Beautiful spot and Tynan was very friendly. Nice and private.
See more
Kasper
3 weeks ago
Tent
What a great spot! Beautiful campground, clean amenities and a warm welcoming host. Will definitely be coming back in the future
See moreS
Samantha
3 weeks ago
6 m rooftop tent
We absolutely loved it! Its beautiful and private and the hosts were amazing! We had friends who couldn't find a camp and the hosts welcomed them to come share the site with us for the night. They were very helpful and also gave us great ideas of places to visit too.
I really loved the rubbish bin set up as well, recycling, food scraps, general and cans & bottles-very organised and conscientious.
The fire pit area is fantastic!
We want to come back and stay again for a few days soon!!!
Thanks Guys for having us and for your top notch hospitality x
See more
Matthew
3 weeks ago
13 m fifth wheel
With pets
Awesome place and awesome people, absolutely loved our stay there and wouldn’t hesitate to go back again. Sites were big and private, flat ground and well maintained
See more
C
Craig
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
The site was easy to get to, a lot of privacy and heaps of shade, would definitely rebook in the future for another little camping getaway
See more
Kelly
3 weeks ago
6 m campervan
With kids
Tanya’s place is in a good location, very close to Berry Springs and the local IGA. We stayed in the paddock behind the main house area. It was nice and private. We were also able to run a cable to Tanya’s shed so we could have electricity. Tanya was quick to respond and very accommodating.
I definitely recommend Tanya’s property.
See moreS
Sharon
3 weeks ago
10 m travel trailer
Great spot hosts Dan and Mel are so welcoming, great property good sized sites water, power, toilet, communal camp fire and great stories.
Very relaxing and a great location.
Thank you Dan and Mel.
See moreD
Debbie
June 2026
9 m travel trailer
With pets
Totally enjoyed a 2 week stay at Camp Wallaby. Great place to pull up especially if you have dogs. So close to shops. Great spot to relax and enjoy life or leave for the day an enjoy Darwin and the many tourist spots.
See more
C
Carrie
June 2026
7 m travel trailer
What a beautiful property. This site is so peaceful and has lots of bird life. The trees are the perfect boundary to give you privacy. There is a fire pit and you have use of the pool if you like.
Kristy and her husband are the perfect hosts and are not far away if you need anything
We have enjoyed our stay very much and would recommend this property 1,000%.
Thank you guys so much 🤩🙋♀️👍
See moref
felicia
June 2026
6 m travel trailer
Such a lovely property and hosts. Secure with gated entrance, choice of sunny or shady spots, close to gateway shopping centre and an easy drive into Darwin cbd. Laundromats close by, toilet dump at Greyhound club. Loved our stay and would definitely stay again in a heartbeat :)
See more
Steve
June 2026
8 m travel trailer
With pets
We had a ripper 4 nights here, only planned 2 but added another couple nights once we got there. Great sites with plenty of space, but a cosy campsite with a great community vibe. Dan and Mel gave us heaps of tips and places to check out, and they went well over and above to make sure we got the most out of Bitter Springs!
River just down the road, with plenty of Barra swimming around.
We will be back again to jag a Barra!
See moreNorthern Territory camping guide
Where to go
Darwin
Darwin is the gateway to the Litchfield and Mary River national parks, where you can pitch a tent along the riverside, spot wildlife on a bushwalk, then cool off in a natural swimming hole. For the best of both worlds, stop at one of the city’s beachfront campsites and explore the parks on a day trip.
Kakadu
Cruise among crocs, uncover Aboriginal rock art sites, and swim in natural waterholes at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park. Bush campgrounds provide an opportunity to get back to nature, while the park has over 30 marked rainforest hiking trails.
Alice Springs
Venture to Alice Springs, Australia’s Red Centre, to hike around King’s Canyon, hear Dreamtime stories of Aboriginal heritage, and lose yourself in the endless desert landscapes. Adventurers can roll out a swag beneath the desert stars and wake early to watch the sunrise over Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
Katherine
South of Darwin, the Katherine River is flanked by rocky gorges and savannah grasslands where you can hike, camp, or kayak away from crowds. In Nitmiluk National Park, you can also soak in natural thermal springs, visit ancient caves, or swim at Edith Falls.
Arnhem Land
Campers venturing to the northernmost corner of Arnhem Land are rewarded with deserted beaches, rocky promontories, and hidden waterfalls. You need a permit to visit the traditional lands of the Yolngu people and a four-wheel drive is best for getting around, but it’s worth the effort to discover one of Australia’s most undeveloped pockets of wilderness.
