The best ranch campgrounds near Darwin, Northern Territory

At the very northern tip of the Top End, Darwin is perfectly positioned for exploring some of the most magnetic landscapes in Australia’s otherworldly Northern Territory. Make the most of the region’s natural beauty by pitching a tent or pulling up to one of its many campgrounds and RV parks perched by teeming waterfalls, swimming holes, billabongs, and forests. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse fauna that lives here including saltwater crocs, wallabies, and hundreds of species of birds, then kick back around a campfire as stars fill the enormous sky.About an hour east of Darwin, the lush Mary River wetlands is a great place to stop on your way to Kakadu National Park or an easy side trip from the city. You can spot some of the 250 species of birds that flock to the Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve in the dry season; see saltwater crocodiles on a cruise on one of the wetlands’ billabongs, and learn about native birds and animals at the Window on the Wetlands Visitor Centre. Within Mary River National Park, Shady Camp and the more basic Couzen’s Lookout are popular camping areas for their proximity to the river, billabongs, and forest. Farther along the route to Kakadu, Mary River Wilderness Retreat offers accessible wilderness lodgings in powered and unpowered sites, as well as a safari tent glamping experience—the camping area is pet friendly (advise ahead of arrival) and all guests have access to the restaurant (with free wifi), two swimming pools, kitchen, and laundry facilities.Around an hour’s drive north of Darwin, Leaders Creek Fishing Base is perfectly positioned for exploring the Vernon Islands, Melville Island, and Cape Hotham and for fishing on the Adelaide River. Travelers can choose between a powered and unpowered site or glamp in one of the site’s large “eco tents,” all with shared amenities including camp kitchen and showers. Pets are welcome with advance notice and you can even hire a boat on site. An hour and a half southwest of Darwin, Dundee Park Holiday Camp offers pet-friendly powered and unpowered sites, as well as bungalow and cabin accommodation, with access to facilities including a swimming pool, laundry, and gas bbq.An hour and a half southeast of Darwin, Litchfield National Park offers the chance to camp in a dramatic landscape dotted with teeming waterfalls, natural plunge pools, monsoon forest, and even a field full of giant termite mounds. Campsites including Wangi Falls, Florence Falls, and Walker Creek feature waterfalls and swimming holes that are perfect for cooling down on a hot day, and all are ideally situated for walkers who want to tackle the 24-mile (39-kilometer) Tabletop Track. All sites have toilets, fire pits, and water and Wangi Falls also has hot showers. Weary travelers can find something a little more comfortable at the powered and unpowered sites of Litchfield Safari Camp and Litchfield Tourist Park, both located just outside the park.

98% (138)

Top-rated campgrounds near Darwin

At the very northern tip of the Top End, Darwin is perfectly positioned for exploring some of the most magnetic landscapes in Australia’s otherworldly Northern Territory. Make the most of the region’s natural beauty by pitching a tent or pulling up to one of its many campgrounds and RV parks perched by teeming waterfalls, swimming holes, billabongs, and forests. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse fauna that lives here including saltwater crocs, wallabies, and hundreds of species of birds, then kick back around a campfire as stars fill the enormous sky.About an hour east of Darwin, the lush Mary River wetlands is a great place to stop on your way to Kakadu National Park or an easy side trip from the city. You can spot some of the 250 species of birds that flock to the Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve in the dry season; see saltwater crocodiles on a cruise on one of the wetlands’ billabongs, and learn about native birds and animals at the Window on the Wetlands Visitor Centre. Within Mary River National Park, Shady Camp and the more basic Couzen’s Lookout are popular camping areas for their proximity to the river, billabongs, and forest. Farther along the route to Kakadu, Mary River Wilderness Retreat offers accessible wilderness lodgings in powered and unpowered sites, as well as a safari tent glamping experience—the camping area is pet friendly (advise ahead of arrival) and all guests have access to the restaurant (with free wifi), two swimming pools, kitchen, and laundry facilities.Around an hour’s drive north of Darwin, Leaders Creek Fishing Base is perfectly positioned for exploring the Vernon Islands, Melville Island, and Cape Hotham and for fishing on the Adelaide River. Travelers can choose between a powered and unpowered site or glamp in one of the site’s large “eco tents,” all with shared amenities including camp kitchen and showers. Pets are welcome with advance notice and you can even hire a boat on site. An hour and a half southwest of Darwin, Dundee Park Holiday Camp offers pet-friendly powered and unpowered sites, as well as bungalow and cabin accommodation, with access to facilities including a swimming pool, laundry, and gas bbq.An hour and a half southeast of Darwin, Litchfield National Park offers the chance to camp in a dramatic landscape dotted with teeming waterfalls, natural plunge pools, monsoon forest, and even a field full of giant termite mounds. Campsites including Wangi Falls, Florence Falls, and Walker Creek feature waterfalls and swimming holes that are perfect for cooling down on a hot day, and all are ideally situated for walkers who want to tackle the 24-mile (39-kilometer) Tabletop Track. All sites have toilets, fire pits, and water and Wangi Falls also has hot showers. Weary travelers can find something a little more comfortable at the powered and unpowered sites of Litchfield Safari Camp and Litchfield Tourist Park, both located just outside the park.

98% (138)

Top-rated campgrounds near Darwin

1. Berry Springs Labush Estate

94%

(27)

32km from Darwin · 12 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

2. Mambo Lodge

100%

(20)

24km from Darwin · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

3. Howard Springs Haven

100%

(137)

24km from Darwin · 3 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.

4. Tumbling Waters Farm Stay

34km from Darwin · 1 site · Tent, RV

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.

5. Hillier Hideaway

98%

(20)

25km from Darwin · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

6. Top Camp

100%

(1)

38km from Darwin · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

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).

7. Mango Road Campsite

100%

(1)

29km from Darwin · 1 site · Tent, RV

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!

Camper favorites near Darwin

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Tumbling Waters Farm Stay

34km from Darwin · 1 site · Tent, RV

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.

Hillier Hideaway

98%

(20)

25km from Darwin · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

Top Camp

100%

(1)

38km from Darwin · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

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).

Mango Road Campsite

100%

(1)

29km from Darwin · 1 site · Tent, RV

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!

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

T

Tim

November 2025

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 near Darwin guide

When to go

For the most comfortable conditions, visit during the dry season, which runs from May to October and promises relatively cooler temperatures. This is peak season for the Top End, however, so opt for the shoulder month of April to avoid the crowds. If you visit during the wet season from November through April, you’ll see the waterfalls of Litchfield at their best but roads and entire areas may be closed due to flooding.

Know before you go

When traveling in the Top End pay close attention to crocodile warning signs.
Be sure to wear protective clothing and bring insect repellent and plenty of water.
Campers should take note of fire bans and be sure to use the pits provided for campfires.
Pets are not permitted in national parks.
Don’t worry if you forgot something, Darwin is home to a number of camping and outdoor supply stores.

Nearby attractions

Visiting Edith Falls takes you into a seemingly tropical landscape and offers opportunities to walk behind the large walls of water that pour off of the beautiful Blue Mountains.