The best ranch 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.

98% (138)

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.

98% (138)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Howard Springs Haven

100%

(137)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Howard Springs, NT

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.

2. Athelle Outback Hideaway

100%

(1)

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.

3. Berry Springs Labush Estate

94%

(27)

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.

4. Mango Road Campsite

100%

(1)

1 site · Tent, RV · Girraween, NT

Purchased this former Mango farm to raise our young family in 2021. Now a family compound housing my young family and my retired parents in a separate Granny flat contained within the Shed. We have since developed the property, purchased livestock and introduced more fruit and veg plants and trees to maintain a ‘sustainable living’ lifestyle. This campsite will suit self-contained campers who have their own camping toilet/shower. There is access to drinking water and rubbish facilities. If you don’t mind the serenades of pigs, goats, chooks or native wildlife, you will enjoy the surrounding environment with access to fresh produce!

5. Mambo Lodge

100%

(20)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Howard Springs, NT

Small Hobby farm. Camping in serene surroundings amongst 350 mango trees with water and electricity connections for up to 4 x Caravans to maintain privacy. On site toilets and dump point. Close to all the tourist attractions Darwin has to offer. Access to splash pool. Pets by negotiation.

6. Hillier Hideaway

98%

(20)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Howard Springs, NT

Hillier Hideaway is a beautiful 5-acre property located 2 minutes from Coolalinga Central. With 4 well shaded, spacious sites this is the perfect place to pull up and explore Darwin and its surrounds. Sites are not visible from the road and there are no dirt bike tracks or open land adjoining the property, making this a very secluded and safe site. We can accommodate vans up to 24 feet and have 1 dedicated site for either a camper trailer or tent. All sites have no power or water, so you will need to be fully self-sufficient. There is however a single shower and toilet for use if needed. There is a dump point at the Caravan Park across from Coolalinga Central that can be used for a small fee. All sites are well maintained with plenty of shade, please note during the dry season the grassed area will die off. There will be areas allocated for small campfires and guests must follow fire bans as the restrictions come up. There are wild peacocks that come in at dawn and dusk to get their daily feed, guests are welcome to come watch, Burdekin ducks and possums at night. Pets are allowed however dogs must remain on a lead as there is allot of wildlife that call the property home.

7. Tumbling Waters Farm Stay

1 site · Tent, RV · Humpty Doo, NT

Family-friendly property on 10 acres of a mix of maintained and natural bush and a tidal river at the back. Pitch a tent or set up a caravan in the open space under a shady tree. Nestled near the rear of the property and the chook and goose yard. There are no amenities here, campers must be self contained and leave no trace. There is a tidal river accessible by walking track at the rear or drive or bike ride to the boat ramp down the road for more serious fishing. The property is located 25 minutes from Humpty Doo and 45 Minutes from Darwin.

8. Top Camp

100%

(1)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Humpty Doo, NT

Hobby farm with cattle/horses/pigs and chickens. Separate area set up for nomads to enjoy their own space. Water, 15amp, water, 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 and Post office are 7.3km from property location. Secure fencing for dog (all dogs must have a tick collar, be vaccinated and well mannered. Dog must be cleaned up after).

Camper favorites in Northern Territory

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Mango Road Campsite

100%

(1)

1 site · Tent, RV · Girraween, NT

Purchased this former Mango farm to raise our young family in 2021. Now a family compound housing my young family and my retired parents in a separate Granny flat contained within the Shed. We have since developed the property, purchased livestock and introduced more fruit and veg plants and trees to maintain a ‘sustainable living’ lifestyle. This campsite will suit self-contained campers who have their own camping toilet/shower. There is access to drinking water and rubbish facilities. If you don’t mind the serenades of pigs, goats, chooks or native wildlife, you will enjoy the surrounding environment with access to fresh produce!

Mambo Lodge

100%

(20)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Howard Springs, NT

Small Hobby farm. Camping in serene surroundings amongst 350 mango trees with water and electricity connections for up to 4 x Caravans to maintain privacy. On site toilets and dump point. Close to all the tourist attractions Darwin has to offer. Access to splash pool. Pets by negotiation.

Hillier Hideaway

98%

(20)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Howard Springs, NT

Hillier Hideaway is a beautiful 5-acre property located 2 minutes from Coolalinga Central. With 4 well shaded, spacious sites this is the perfect place to pull up and explore Darwin and its surrounds. Sites are not visible from the road and there are no dirt bike tracks or open land adjoining the property, making this a very secluded and safe site. We can accommodate vans up to 24 feet and have 1 dedicated site for either a camper trailer or tent. All sites have no power or water, so you will need to be fully self-sufficient. There is however a single shower and toilet for use if needed. There is a dump point at the Caravan Park across from Coolalinga Central that can be used for a small fee. All sites are well maintained with plenty of shade, please note during the dry season the grassed area will die off. There will be areas allocated for small campfires and guests must follow fire bans as the restrictions come up. There are wild peacocks that come in at dawn and dusk to get their daily feed, guests are welcome to come watch, Burdekin ducks and possums at night. Pets are allowed however dogs must remain on a lead as there is allot of wildlife that call the property home.

Tumbling Waters Farm Stay

1 site · Tent, RV · Humpty Doo, NT

Family-friendly property on 10 acres of a mix of maintained and natural bush and a tidal river at the back. Pitch a tent or set up a caravan in the open space under a shady tree. Nestled near the rear of the property and the chook and goose yard. There are no amenities here, campers must be self contained and leave no trace. There is a tidal river accessible by walking track at the rear or drive or bike ride to the boat ramp down the road for more serious fishing. The property is located 25 minutes from Humpty Doo and 45 Minutes from Darwin.

Top Camp

100%

(1)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Humpty Doo, NT

Hobby farm with cattle/horses/pigs and chickens. Separate area set up for nomads to enjoy their own space. Water, 15amp, water, 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 and Post office are 7.3km from property location. Secure fencing for dog (all dogs must have a tick collar, be vaccinated and well mannered. Dog must be cleaned up after).

Stories from the community

T

Tim

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Hillier Hideaway

Amazing location, beautiful spot with super helpful and friendly hosts. Thanks Melissa, Andrew, Gilbert and Ernie for giving us an amazing experience and hospitality. See you again next time!

Andrew

September 2025

6 m travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Howard Springs Haven

Fantastic spot. Close enough to Palmerston and Darwin, but far enough away to enjoy some quiet. Our kids loved playing in the pool with the hosts kids!!!

N

Norelene

September 2025

9 m travel trailer

With kids

5 nights at Howard Springs Haven

Quiet, safe camping. Good access for Darwin and surrounds. Friendly hosts. Would definitely recommend. Also the honey was very good. Thanks for a great stay guys.

M

Martin

September 2025

7 m travel trailer

5 nights at Mambo Lodge

We had a warm welcome on arrival. The sites are well shaded from the NT sun, plenty of space and very tranquil setting. The hosts were wonderful and very helpful. They have good knowledge of the area and gave us great ideas and places to see to fill in our days. We received clear instructions and prompt responses. They are the best we have come across in our travels around Australia.

M

Martin

September 2025

7 m travel trailer

5 nights at Mambo Lodge

The best place we have stayed at on this trip around Northern Territory. The hosts were brilliant they couldn’t do enough for us. They made us feel like Family. Great facilities and they had plenty of knowledge about what to see in Darwin. Highly recommend this place to stay if you are travelling to Darwin.

H

Helen

September 2025

7 m travel trailer

5 nights at Mambo Lodge

Awesome property with fantastic hosts that are very caring! We were 3 families from 3 states, a place to meet up. Camping between the mango trees was shady with toilet facilities as well. Highly recommend this peaceful property. The best stay in Darwin.

m

melvie

September 2025

5 m car

With kids

Weekend Trip to Howard Springs Haven

kristy is easy to communicate and approachable. they are very helpful

J

Jarred

September 2025

9 m travel trailer

With kids

7 nights at Howard Springs Haven

We had an awesome time staying at Howard springs , it was a perfect spot to base ourselves exploring Darwin. The hosts were amazing.

L

Lyn

September 2025

12 m travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Mambo Lodge

We stayed 2 months in total at Mambo Top End and honestly we couldn’t have wished for nicer hosts. Gerhard and Hannalie are such kind, friendly people who willingly shared their place with us. We were very sad to leave and could easily have just stayed on. Guys, thank you so much for everything and we hope to see you both next winter.

P

Peta

September 2025

8 m travel trailer

With kids

5 nights at Howard Springs Haven

Great large grassed spot to park up for few days! We based ourselves here for our Darwin adventure for 5 days and was great. Power, water, bins, and gated. Kids loved having access to the pool and cubby and playing with the hosts kids. Hosts very friendly and happy to help us with all our questions about attractions & things to do.

L

Lyn

September 2025

12 m travel trailer

With pets

5 nights at Mambo Lodge

Just an amazing place with amazing hosts. Wish we could have stayed for the mango harvest. Cool parking in the shade of the trees, beautiful green grass and so peaceful and quiet!

L

Lyn

August 2025

12 m travel trailer

27 nights at Mambo Lodge

We absolutely love this spot. It’s so peaceful and quiet in the Mango Farm. Watching the mangoes grow is so special. Gerhard and Hannalie are the nicest hosts you could wish for and they have created a beautiful retreat for travellers.

D

Dianne

August 2025

8 m travel trailer

14 nights at Mambo Lodge

Thank you for a wonderful stay! So Serene and quiet Friendly hosts, lovely doggies Power, water and toilet was a huge bonus Lovely green lawn Would definitely stay again and recommend to campers

S

Samantha

August 2025

7 m travel trailer

3 nights at Mambo Lodge

Beautiful surroundings, with lush grass & shady trees. Peaceful camp. Friendly hosts.

L

Luke

August 2025

5 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Mambo Lodge

We had an excellent time staying here. It’s so lovely camping under the mango trees and with only 4 spots for fellow campers it feels very secluded. The hosts were really nice and made sure our trip to Darwin was as nice as could be. As we were in a rooftop tent there were some early morning bird sounds that could make you stir if sleeping lightly but that’s roof top tent life and no blame to the hosts.

Damien

August 2025

12 m travel trailer

With kids

4 nights at Hillier Hideaway

We loved our stay at Hilliers Hideaway! Andrew and Michelle have got a fantastic property which provides the perfect base to explore all that Darwin and surrounds have to offer. Andrew and Michelle were fantastic welcoming hosts offering local insights into the areas attractions.

Pete

August 2025

10 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Hillier Hideaway

Extended our stay at Hillier Hideaway. Andrew and Michelle are such flexible and wonderful hosts, and space was just perfect for our needs. Plenty of great conversations, tips on where to go… everything we could ask for, and more.

L

Luke

August 2025

6 m travel trailer

With kids

4 nights at Howard Springs Haven

Great spot. Good size site and very private. Power and water provided. Hosts were very helpful too when needed. Thanks for a great stay.

A

Alexandra

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Mambo Lodge

we loved our one night stay amongst the Mango Trees, it meant for a shady morning and afternoon which was fantastic. both Gerhard and Hanlie were welcoming and friendly (as were their 3 little dogs!), even let us have a swim in their pool. soft green grass, water available and clean toilets all close to town, would definitely recommend this stay!

Anthea

August 2025

6 m travel trailer

1 night at Mambo Lodge

We absolutely loved our stay at Mambo Top End! Such a beautiful, peaceful spot amongst the mango trees. Lovely green grass, spacious and private sites with power and water. Great location and the perfect base to explore Litchfield NP, Berry Springs with 2 shopping centres just 15 minutes away and the city just a 30 minute drive. Gerhard and Hanlie were the perfect hosts and made us feel so welcome. Nothing was too much trouble. This was our favourite stay in the top end. Thank you for having us!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best ranch 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.