Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park is one of Australia’s most beautiful sights. With towering cliffs, windy rivers and greenery galore, camping here is an experience to remember. Whether you’re drawn to the big rock formations, the plunge pools or the Aboriginal rock art, Katherine Gorge has something for everyone. Many visitors also choose to do a Katherine Gorge tour to get a deeper understanding of the area’s cultural and natural history. This guide will take you through the best camping spots in the area so you can decide where to pitch your tent, set up your base camp and enjoy the best of this national treasure.
Why Campers Must Visit Katherine Gorge
For anyone who loves the outdoors, Katherine Gorge is a must-see. The gorge is part of the bigger Nitmiluk National Park, an area of great cultural and natural significance. The park is owned by the Jawoyn people, the traditional owners of the land and managed in partnership with the Northern Territory government. Katherine Gorge has stunning rock formations and ancient Aboriginal rock art sites, pristine swimming holes and peaceful natural pools. Campers can explore the gorge by hiking, canoeing or join a Cultural Experience.
With multiple camping options from caravan parks to remote off-the-grid spots along the Jatbula Trail, Katherine Gorge has it all. Whether you want a comfortable stay with all the mod cons like hot showers and cooking facilities or rough it in the wilderness, Katherine Gorge has you covered.
Top Camping Spots Around Katherine Gorge
Nitmiluk Campground
One of the most popular camping spots in the area, Nitmiluk Campground, is located right at the entrance to Katherine Gorge. It has powered and unpowered sites so is great for tents, campervans or caravan parks. With camp kitchen facilities and a swimming pool, Nitmiluk Campground is perfect for families and those who want to camp with all the comforts of a serviced campsite but still be in nature.
Features:
- Powered and unpowered sites
- Shaded sites with room for tents and caravans
- Camp kitchen with cooking facilities, BBQs and picnic areas
- Good facilities including hot showers, toilets and laundry
- Swimming pool for day time cooling off
- Access to the Katherine River for canoeing or an afternoon swim
- Hiking trails start right from the campsite
Nitmiluk Campground is also a great base to explore other attractions in the area. Whether you’re doing a day trip to Edith Falls or a multi day hike on the Jatbula Trail, this campground has everything you need for a relaxing and adventurous stay.
Jatbula Trail Campsites
If you want to get back to basics the Jatbula Trail has a series of remote campsites along the 62 km trail. The trail takes you through some of the most beautiful and remote areas of the park, waterfalls, wetlands and Aboriginal rock art. These campsites are for experienced hikers who want to really get off the trail and into nature.
What to
- Basic campsites with minimal facilities (pit toilets and no showers)
- Access to natural swimming holes and waterholes to cool off after a long day of walking
- Cliffs, waterfalls and rock formations views
- Limited campsites – must book in advance, especially during the cooler months of the dry season
- A chance to experience the wilderness at its best
The campsites along the Jatbula Trail are spaced well apart so you can have solitude in the wilderness. As a reward for your hard work most campsites are near waterholes or waterfalls so you can cool off in a natural pool after a long day of walking in the park’s rough country.
Leliyn (Edith Falls) Campground
North of Katherine Gorge Leliyn (Edith Falls) is another great camping spot in Nitmiluk National Park. The falls are a short drive from the main gorge area and are a beautiful spot to camp, with natural plunge pools to swim in. The campground is well maintained with powered and unpowered sites and is perfect for those who want to camp and swim and picnic.
- Powered and unpowered caravan sites
- Shady spots surrounded by bush, perfect for escaping the heat
- Cascading waterfalls and plunge pools to swim in
- Well maintained camping facilities – BBQs, picnic tables and hot showers
- Family friendly with plenty of room for kids to run around
Edith Falls is one of the area’s highlights with its swimming holes and walking tracks that offer stunning views of the surrounding country. If you’re visiting in the dry season it’s the perfect place to unwind and soak up the beauty of Nitmiluk National Park.
Low-Level Nature Reserve
For a more laid back camping experience near Katherine town the Low-Level Nature Reserve is a beautiful riverside spot along the Katherine River. Perfect for those who want a bit of bush camping and proximity to town’s facilities as it’s just a short drive to Katherine’s shops, restaurants and hot springs.
What to Expect:
- Large grassy campsites with plenty of shade from the trees
- Access to the Katherine River for fishing, swimming and canoeing
- Close to Katherine’s hot springs
- Basic facilities – shared toilets, BBQs and picnic areas
- For those looking for a quieter more peaceful stay without being too far from town
The Low-Level Nature Reserve is also a great base for day trips to the surrounding area including Nitmiluk Gorge, Bitter Springs and Edith Falls. It’s a great place to experience the natural beauty of the area without sacrificing access to nearby facilities.
Gorge View Bush Retreat
For those looking for seclusion and a true bush experience Gorge View Bush Retreat is the way to go. Located away from the main tourist areas this retreat has private campsites with views of the gorge and surrounding landscape. For those who want to unplug from modern life and get back to nature.
What to Expect:
- Private, large campsites with views of Katherine Gorge
- Perfect for solo travellers or couples looking for a quiet, intimate camping experience
- Close to hiking trails and Cultural Experiences offered by the Jawoyn people
- Basic facilities – pit toilets, shared BBQ areas and drinking water
- Great for stargazing and enjoying the peace of the NT wilderness
This retreat offers solitude and adventure, easy access to the gorge and other regional attractions and still feels remote.
What to Pack for Your Katherine Gorge Camping Trip
Camping in Katherine Gorge requires some planning especially if you’re going to one of the more remote sites like the tropical-rated. Here’s a list of essentials to pack for a safe and enjoyable trip:
- Tent, sleeping bag and mat: Make sure your tent is tropical-rated.
- Cooking equipment: Bring a portable stove or use the BBQs and camp kitchen at some sites.
- Food and water: Always carry enough drinking water especially for remote sites with limited facilities.
- Sun protection and insect repellent: The NT sun is strong and bugs are common in the bush.
- Swimwear: Take advantage of the many plunge pools and natural swimming holes.
- Hiking boots: If you plan to do some of the many hiking trails around the gorge, good-quality boots are a must.
- Cool drink: Stay hydrated while at camp or after a long day of exploring the area’s beautiful scenery.
Best Time to Camp Katherine Gorge
Best time to camp is during the dry season May to September. Cooler weather and trails are more accessible. Wet season (Oct to April) is hot and wet, some trails are closed. But wet season means you get to see the waterfalls in full flow, so if you don’t mind a bit of rain.
Cultural Significance and Wildlife
Katherine Gorge has deep cultural significance to the Jawoyn people who have been here for tens of thousands of years. Visitors to the gorge can learn about the area’s history through Cultural Experiences such as guided tours and visits to ancient Aboriginal rock art sites. These Nitmiluk tours give you a insight into the spiritual and cultural importance of the land and a deeper connection to the land.
The gorge is also home to an abundance of wildlife including birds such as eagles, kites and cockatoos. Campers often wake to the sounds of bird calls, a peaceful and natural start to the day. Other wildlife you may see include wallabies, freshwater crocodiles and various fish species in the Katherine River.
Conclusion
Katherine Gorge has a range of camping options from caravan parks with hot showers and cooking facilities to remote off the grid campsites along the Jatbula Trail. Whether you like the comfort of a caravan park or the solitude of bush camping, Katherine Gorge has it all. With its natural beauty, cultural significance and adventure opportunities camping in Nitmiluk National Park will be a Darwin trip to remember.
FAQs
What facilities are available at Nitmiluk Campground?
Powered and unpowered sites, hot showers, BBQ areas and swimming pool.
Best time to camp at Katherine Gorge?
Dry season (May to September)
Can I swim at Katherine Gorge?
Yes, there are several swimming holes and natural pools. Always check with local authorities for safety especially during wet season.
Camping near Edith Falls?
Yes, Edith Falls campground has powered and unpowered caravan sites and access to a scenic plunge pool.
Cultural experiences?
Aboriginal rock art and learn about the area’s history from the traditional owners the Jawoyn people.