The best luxury caravan campgrounds in Northern Territory

Vast desert landscapes, balmy tropical heat, and some of Australia’s most dramatic terrain—the Northern Territory is a region to be savoured. Give yourself ample time to explore the national parks’ ancient Aboriginal rock art; hike through sweeping gorges; or set out on an epic road trip all the way to the Red Centre. Here, each season offers its own appeal. Dry season (June through Sept) is the best time to hike, surf, or camp out in the wilderness, while in wet season (November through April), wildlife cruises and waterfalls are at their most impressive.

96% (444)

Top-rated campgrounds

Vast desert landscapes, balmy tropical heat, and some of Australia’s most dramatic terrain—the Northern Territory is a region to be savoured. Give yourself ample time to explore the national parks’ ancient Aboriginal rock art; hike through sweeping gorges; or set out on an epic road trip all the way to the Red Centre. Here, each season offers its own appeal. Dry season (June through Sept) is the best time to hike, surf, or camp out in the wilderness, while in wet season (November through April), wildlife cruises and waterfalls are at their most impressive.

96% (444)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Urban Retreat

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(242)

11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Darwin, NT

Darwin is the gateway to the amazing Kakadu National Park. There are many popular waterfront areas with several beaches and green areas like Bicentennial Park. While sightseeing, make sure you visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, displaying Southeast Asian and Pacific art. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are some good fishing and mountain biking spots. We are located on a 5-acre block on the edge of town. The top 2 acres are laid out in a tropical garden setting, with the other 3 acres set out with native Darwin plants visited by lots of native animals and birds. You'll feel like you're a whole world away yet you will only be 2 minutes from the supermarket, 5 minutes from a large shopping centre, and 15 minutes from Darwin's CBD. We are a small boutique site and only have currently 3 sites on the 5 acres. Your site is private and you will be able to enjoy your stay without interference from others. IMPORTANT: Each site can accommodate 2 adults MAX. If you have 3 or 4 adults, you will need to book both sites. Please note Pool site is open all year round and has permanent cover. Other sites are dependant on weather and access.

2. Pandanus on Litchfield

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(8)

27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Batchelor, NT

At Pandanus on Litchfield, our caravan park has a great range of facilities to suit any needs. We have unpowered and powered spots for you to set up and enjoy our resort-style facilities in Litchfield. Choose shady, sunny or partially sunny sites when you check in. We also offer a range of cabins with self-contained bathrooms and kitchenettes. Caravanners and campers can enjoy our hot showers and clean bathrooms after a day adventuring in Litchfield National Park.

3. Swag Inn

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4 sites · Tents, RVs · Ross, NT

Our backyard campsite is only 9 km from the centre of Alice Springs. Its located in a rural/urban setting. Alice Springs is as famous for the personality of its locals and contemporary and traditional art as the natural wonders, including the stunning Larapinta Trail and the MacDonnell Ranges, which surround it. The Swag Inn camping spot has access to an outdoor shower and toilet and laundry sink. Enjoy the view of the ranges and the amazing stars in the desert night sky from your campsite. Listen to the bird calls and enjoy the peace. Campers are welcome to enjoy the BBQ Firepit and firewood, within local restrictions. Around town, there are numerous sites of historical significance to the region’s settler history, including the Old Telegraph Station Reserve, which marks the town’s important role as the mid-point of the 19th-century telegraph line running from Adelaide to Darwin. There are great places to eat and drink, with great views.

4. Litchfield Tourist Park

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191 sites · RVs, Lodging · Rum Jungle, NT

Looking for a true Top End experience? Welcome to Litchfield Tourist Park, a great base for your Litchfield National Park adventure. We are a small, family owned caravan park located in cattle country, on the outskirts of the fabulous Litchfield National Park, 14km from Batchelor. Welcome to the outback, where a creek flows through our backyard, cattle and horses roam over our back fence, and where native birds and wildlife make their home. We feel privileged to live in such an amazing region and constantly look for ways to preserve and protect it. You can help in many ways: by using our recycling waste centres, reducing the amount of single-use plastics that you bring or simply arrive at the café with your own cup for morning coffee.

5. Litchfield Safari Camp

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(10)

62 sites · RVs, Lodging · Rakula, NT

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Litchfield National Park at Litchfield Safari Camp. Nestled just outside the park’s western entry, our camp is the perfect base for discovering the wonders that await. With a range of accommodation options including glamping tents, and spacious powered and unpowered camping areas that are shaded and fully grassed, we cater to every adventurer’s needs. Experience the thrill of exploring iconic attractions like Wangi Falls, Florence Falls, and Tolmer Falls, where cascading waterfalls meet crystal-clear plunge pools. Embark on scenic hikes, relax in pristine waterholes, and capture the essence of untouched wilderness. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Litchfield Safari Camp is your gateway to unforgettable experiences in nature’s wonderland. We are thrilled to be featured in The Feel Good Family’s latest episode, “Best Guide To Litchfield National Park 2024.” Watch as they explore the breathtaking beauty of the park and give an exclusive preview of Litchfield Safari Camp, showcased at the 3:10 mark. Dive into the adventure and see why our camp is the perfect base for your Litchfield experience.

6. Jeff’s Shed

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(8)

2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Darwin River, NT

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.

7. Athelle Outback Hideaway

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150 sites · Tents, RVs · Ti Tree, NT

Athelle Outback Hideaway is a famous Australian Outback tourist destination, steeped in the rugged beauty of Central Australia. Only a short 28km drive from the Stuart Highway, the farmland’s unique charm lies in its harmonious blend of modern amenities, with a deep respect for the land’s Indigenous heritage. Today Athelle Outback Hideaway stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Australia Outback. Welcoming visitors from around the globe, it is easy to become immersed in the untamed splendor and unwind amidst the boundless horizon.

8. Berry Springs Labush Estate

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12 sites · Tents, RVs · Berry Springs, NT

Stay at our 26 acres in beautiful Berry Springs. The property offers plenty of tall trees for shade and space to pitch a tent or park a caravan, motor home or camper, and enjoy a campfire in a pit. Campers MUST be self-contained, with their own camp toilet. No waste disposal on site. No shower facilities The block is within a short 3km distance to Berry Springs Nature Park, a popular swimming hole also shops, a pharmacy, doctors, hardware store, petrol station and tavern. We have friendly cows and donkeys to pat and lots of bird life to see or photograph. Power and water can be made available. You are welcome to collect fallen timber for firewood from the property.

9. Samson Creek secluded bush camping

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7 sites · Tents, RVs · Charlotte, NT

Private, secluded, off grid, bush camp on the Charlotte River, offering bird watching, bush walking, barramundi fishing, star gazing, viewing interesting geology and exploring nature. Located between Litchfield National Park, Wagait Beach and Dundee Beach, access via medium clearance vehicles, sites are limited. Open May to Sep. Guests must adhere to Total Fire Bans.

10. Corroboree Park Tavern

76 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Marrakai, NT

Situated on the Arnhem Highway, halfway between Darwin and Kakadu NP, with The Adelaide River to the west and Mary River to the east. Stop in for a cold beer, enjoy a meal, and have a yarn with a local or spend a few days exploring the area, you’ll be amazed. The Barramundi is plentiful in the Mary River wetlands. Anglers come from all over the world to fish in the region at places like Shady Camp, Corroboree Billabong and the Adelaide River. Corroboree Park Tavern is at the heart of these spectacular fishing spots. We have campsites and pub rooms available to meet every travellers needs.

11. Relax on Bastin

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(38)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Howard Springs, NT

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.

12. Shauna's Shack

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(12)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Uralla, NT

Quiet rural location, manicured grounds just 5km from Katherine. 1 campsite available on shared grounds with 1 guest cabin and the family home. Please note due to unfenced ponds and pool we are unable to host young children. Find us on Facebook or Google for more pics and info. Outdoor kitchen with bbq, fridge, kettle, toaster and microwave. Washing machine on site and clothing racks for drying, byo washing liquid/powder. Pool area with sun loungers and outdoor umbrellas - please no glass poolside for everyone’s safety. Bathroom with shower and toilet. Coveniently located just outside of Katherine N.T. Easy distances to Cutta Cutta caves, Edith Falls, Katherine Gorge, Mataranka, Pine Creek, Umbrawarra Gorge - the list goes on!!

13. AAOK Lakes Resort & Caravan Park

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46 sites · Tents, RVs · Berry Springs, NT

The Lakes Resort and Caravan Park is situated in Berry Springs, close to Darwin (56 km), and the City of Palmerston (30 km), and is central to the whole range of Outer Darwin attractions. There's plenty of open space to enjoy the peaceful natural beauty, abundant bird life, bushwalking, and the noises of night-time in the Bush. The Territory Wildlife Park and the swimming holes of Berry Springs Nature Park are a very short drive (5 mins) and you can comfortably explore Litchfield Park (60kms - 40 Mins) and many other Top End attractions from The Lakes. With grassed shady camping and caravan areas, drive-in / drive-out caravan sites as well as comfortable air-conditioned cabins, there's accommodation for everyone. We have all the facilities you've come to expect and more: a large fully-tiled ablution block, free gas BBQs in the camp kitchen, a laundry area, and a licensed bistro. Your well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome here too! There is a Sunday Buffett Roast every Sunday in busy season and happy hour at our Bar from 4pm to 6pm.

14. Leaning Tree Manor

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10 sites · Tents, RVs · Marrakai, NT

Located in Marrakai, an hour from Darwin, Chris and Nina of Leaning Tree Manor provide a welcoming environment for travellers to enjoy a beautiful bush setting in the Northern Territory. Caravan and camping sites are powered or unpowered. The sites are spaced through the bush for shade, privacy and relaxation. All that is left for you to do is park and relax! There is a communal kitchen with gas stoves, barbeques, fridge, microwave, washing machine, and unisex bathrooms. There is a fire pit to sit around and a wood fire BBQ area. Please, no pets at this time. Leaning Tree Manor is just off the Arnhem Hwy, Marrakai, on the way to Kakadu from Darwin. Whether you're interested in bush walking, hunting, fishing, jumping crocodile tours or need a peaceful place to stop in between your travels, this could be your recharge spot! The area has boat ramps, rivers, billabongs and national parks.

15. Arnhem Acres

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5 sites · Tents, RVs · Humpty Doo, NT

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.

16. BIG4 Howard Springs Holiday Park

296 sites · RVs, Lodging · Howard Springs, NT

BIG4 Howard Springs Holiday Park is a tropical oasis and the perfect Darwin caravan park for your next Top End adventure. Centrally located just 20 minutes from Darwin, this award-winning park offers a relaxing base to explore the region. At BIG4 Howard Springs Holiday Park, you'll find a tranquil oasis surrounded by palm trees, abundant birdlife, and friendly neighbours. Conveniently located just 23 kilometres from Darwin CBD, our Darwin caravan park offers easy access to the stunning Litchfield National Park, Berry Springs Nature Park, and the world-heritage-listed Kakadu National Park. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, BIG4 Howard Springs is the perfect base for your Top End experience.

Camper favorites in Northern Territory

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Corroboree Park Tavern

76 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Marrakai, NT

Situated on the Arnhem Highway, halfway between Darwin and Kakadu NP, with The Adelaide River to the west and Mary River to the east. Stop in for a cold beer, enjoy a meal, and have a yarn with a local or spend a few days exploring the area, you’ll be amazed. The Barramundi is plentiful in the Mary River wetlands. Anglers come from all over the world to fish in the region at places like Shady Camp, Corroboree Billabong and the Adelaide River. Corroboree Park Tavern is at the heart of these spectacular fishing spots. We have campsites and pub rooms available to meet every travellers needs.

Relax on Bastin

96%

(38)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Howard Springs, NT

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.

Shauna's Shack

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(12)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Uralla, NT

Quiet rural location, manicured grounds just 5km from Katherine. 1 campsite available on shared grounds with 1 guest cabin and the family home. Please note due to unfenced ponds and pool we are unable to host young children. Find us on Facebook or Google for more pics and info. Outdoor kitchen with bbq, fridge, kettle, toaster and microwave. Washing machine on site and clothing racks for drying, byo washing liquid/powder. Pool area with sun loungers and outdoor umbrellas - please no glass poolside for everyone’s safety. Bathroom with shower and toilet. Coveniently located just outside of Katherine N.T. Easy distances to Cutta Cutta caves, Edith Falls, Katherine Gorge, Mataranka, Pine Creek, Umbrawarra Gorge - the list goes on!!

AAOK Lakes Resort & Caravan Park

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(6)

46 sites · Tents, RVs · Berry Springs, NT

The Lakes Resort and Caravan Park is situated in Berry Springs, close to Darwin (56 km), and the City of Palmerston (30 km), and is central to the whole range of Outer Darwin attractions. There's plenty of open space to enjoy the peaceful natural beauty, abundant bird life, bushwalking, and the noises of night-time in the Bush. The Territory Wildlife Park and the swimming holes of Berry Springs Nature Park are a very short drive (5 mins) and you can comfortably explore Litchfield Park (60kms - 40 Mins) and many other Top End attractions from The Lakes. With grassed shady camping and caravan areas, drive-in / drive-out caravan sites as well as comfortable air-conditioned cabins, there's accommodation for everyone. We have all the facilities you've come to expect and more: a large fully-tiled ablution block, free gas BBQs in the camp kitchen, a laundry area, and a licensed bistro. Your well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome here too! There is a Sunday Buffett Roast every Sunday in busy season and happy hour at our Bar from 4pm to 6pm.

Leaning Tree Manor

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(2)

10 sites · Tents, RVs · Marrakai, NT

Located in Marrakai, an hour from Darwin, Chris and Nina of Leaning Tree Manor provide a welcoming environment for travellers to enjoy a beautiful bush setting in the Northern Territory. Caravan and camping sites are powered or unpowered. The sites are spaced through the bush for shade, privacy and relaxation. All that is left for you to do is park and relax! There is a communal kitchen with gas stoves, barbeques, fridge, microwave, washing machine, and unisex bathrooms. There is a fire pit to sit around and a wood fire BBQ area. Please, no pets at this time. Leaning Tree Manor is just off the Arnhem Hwy, Marrakai, on the way to Kakadu from Darwin. Whether you're interested in bush walking, hunting, fishing, jumping crocodile tours or need a peaceful place to stop in between your travels, this could be your recharge spot! The area has boat ramps, rivers, billabongs and national parks.

Arnhem Acres

100%

(1)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Humpty Doo, NT

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.

BIG4 Howard Springs Holiday Park

296 sites · RVs, Lodging · Howard Springs, NT

BIG4 Howard Springs Holiday Park is a tropical oasis and the perfect Darwin caravan park for your next Top End adventure. Centrally located just 20 minutes from Darwin, this award-winning park offers a relaxing base to explore the region. At BIG4 Howard Springs Holiday Park, you'll find a tranquil oasis surrounded by palm trees, abundant birdlife, and friendly neighbours. Conveniently located just 23 kilometres from Darwin CBD, our Darwin caravan park offers easy access to the stunning Litchfield National Park, Berry Springs Nature Park, and the world-heritage-listed Kakadu National Park. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, BIG4 Howard Springs is the perfect base for your Top End experience.

Stories from the community

P

Philip

October 2025

5 m Class B

1 night at Pandanus on Litchfield

Friendly host, clean facilities, great pool. Would recommend.

G

Gijs

October 2025

6 m Class B

2 nights at The Urban Retreat

We had a wunderfulll time at peters place.. Love to come back again. We had a nice shady place, there are a lot of birds, lot to see if you like nature. Thanks for staying at your place Peter, you were a perfect host. the dutchies Gijs and Lian

M

Marie

October 2025

5 m Class B

1 night at Swag Inn

We loved staying at Swag Inn. Communication with Kathy was great, and the campground is very special! You can feel the love the owners gave to the space. Facilities were clean and good. We recommend it!

L

Lyn

October 2025

7 m Class B

2 nights at Swag Inn

Friendly lovely just. Very clean ammenities. Felt safe peaceful. Just lovely

V

Vieli

September 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to The Urban Retreat

Best place ever to stay. Host super nice and very welcoming and nice to talk to. Great human

N

Neil

September 2025

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to The Urban Retreat

I wish we could have stayed longer. Pete was an amazing host and the property was really nice and not too far from Darwin. The bathroom and shower were beyond all expectations and I don't have a single complaint. If I'm ever in Darwin again, I know where I'll be staying!

I

Ian

September 2025

6 m Class B

1 night at Swag Inn

Recommend 100% Kathy will make sure you have everything for your stay. The place is a Finke Race museum on its own, amazing job! Plenty of space, quiet and there is all you need for the night. 👍 We cancelled our booking to G'day park and rebooked The Swag Inn for our night back to Alice Springs...

N

Neil

September 2025

5 m car

2 nights at The Urban Retreat

Beautiful campsite and Peter was a great host. A lot of time, love and effort has gone into creating a small nature haven in the suburbs of Darwin, with lots of native trees and the wildlife that they attract. Peter was very friendly and gave us lots of advice on what to do, where to eat and drink etc. I'd highly recommend staying here if looking to camp in the Darwin area

K

Kayshia

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Urban Retreat

Our stay here was great, Peter has thought of everything possible which made it a very accomodating and easy stay. Plenty of privacy with all of the native trees and work he's put in. The pool is also a great bonus!!

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Fran

September 2025

10 m pop-up camper

3 nights at Swag Inn

We loved our stay at swag inn. Close enough to town but away from suburbia. Hosts gave great tips for places to explore. An eclectic and peaceful place to stay. Great facilities. Would recommend.

J

John

September 2025

6 m travel trailer

2 nights at Litchfield Safari Camp

We had a great site with no neighbours, that looked into the bush.There was a track about 20mts in that ran along a beautiful clear creek. The pool was refreshing and pretty The amenities were very clean and modern with each cubicle with its own hand basin ,toilet and shower The staff were wonderful,friendly and helpful The location is perfect for exploring litchfield NP

D

David

September 2025

10 m pop-up camper

With kids

1 night at Swag Inn

What a great spot to stop in Alice. After being out in the dust (which we love) over the few months it's always get to find a spot with a bit of shade, great facilities (esp good hot water!!) and a friendly host. The Swag Inn ticked all the boxes so we opted to stay and extra night.

A

Aaron

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Urban Retreat

Excellent host and a beautiful place. Highly recommend. Nice little pool clean bathrooms great location. We were very happy with our stay definitely recommend if you want to feel like you’re in a remote place but still close to all the local amenities. 10 mins to the beach.

B

Ben

September 2025

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Swag Inn

Great vibe to the place, even though we were the only ones there! Excellent facilities, cool artwork, loads of space and good location to get to town easily.

k

kaat

September 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to The Urban Retreat

Lovely place, really a green oasis, very close to the busy downtown, but you feel in (a very well organized and beautiful part of) the bush!!! The swimming pool was great, amenities clean , host friendly ... What more to ask.

J

Jasmine

September 2025

5 m car

3 nights at The Urban Retreat

Great place to stay - would definitely recommend! Peter was lovely and very accommodating👏.

D

Debbie

September 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to The Urban Retreat

Peters camp is well located to appreciate all that Darwin has to offer yet campsite was private with plenty of native vegetation and fabulous bananas

Petra

September 2025

5 m car

Weekend Trip to The Urban Retreat

Pete's place is a little oasis in busy Darwin. I absolutely loved staying at this campsite it has everything you need - beautiful and clean amenities, a pool to cool down and the sites are very spacious and offer privacy. Pete's enthusiasm about his garden and the wildlife is beautiful and I appreciated how much work and effort he put into building such a nice place. Thank you Pete, will definitely stay again if in the area!

J

Julien

August 2025

7 m Class B

With kids

3 nights at Swag Inn

Very pleasant site. All amenities are present. The universe into which our hosts invite us is incredibly well done. Thank you for the stay!

S

Sharon

August 2025

7 m Class A

4 nights at The Urban Retreat

Lovely camp, private and about 30 mins by uber to markets etc. very well set up by Pete!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best luxury caravan camping in Northern Territory 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.