Litchfield National Park: Darwin’s Hidden Gem
While Kakadu often steals the spotlight, Litchfield National Park is truly Darwin’s hidden gem. It’s the kind of place that feels like nature’s little secret—where stunning waterfalls, pristine swimming holes, and peaceful campsites come together to create a paradise.
If you’re tight on time, you can still catch the highlights in a day, but trust me—spending a night or two here will let you soak up the beauty at a much more relaxed pace. Whether you’re diving into a refreshing swim or planning a full-day adventure, Litchfield is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Darwin.
How to Get There
Getting to Litchfield is a breeze—just a short 90-minute drive south along the Stuart Highway and then a turnoff at Batchelor. It’s pretty easy to access, making it perfect for a quick getaway.
For the more adventurous, you could take a scenic loop on your way back, swinging by Berry Springs. But as a local, I like to keep things simple and focus on my two favourite spots: Buley Rockhole and Florence Falls.
If you’ve got the time, I highly recommend camping overnight at the Florence Falls 2WD or 4WD campsite.
Booking really is a breeze through the NT Parks website, and you’ll have plenty of time to immerse yourself in the surroundings without feeling rushed.
The campsites are basic, but peaceful. Camping fees are reasonable too—$12 per adult, $6 per child (ages 5 to 17), and $30 for a family (2 adults, 4 kids).
Magnetic Termite Mounds: A Quirky Landmark
As you roll into Litchfield, one of the first things you’ll spot are the incredible Magnetic Termite Mounds.
These giant, quirky structures are not just cool to look at; they’re also a fascinating piece of nature. Some of the mounds can reach up to two metres tall, and they’ve been standing for around 100 years.
Take a stroll along the boardwalk to get up close to these mounds. Notice how their thin edges point north-south and their broad backs face east-west? This helps the termites regulate temperature and humidity inside their homes—an ingenious design!
There’s an info shelter nearby that explains all about these clever little creatures, and you’ll even get to see some Cathedral Termite Mounds that stand an impressive four metres tall. They’re definitely worth checking out while you’re exploring Litchfield.
Litchfield Termite Mounds
Buley Rockhole: Nature’s Oasis
Next up, head over to Buley Rockhole—a true natural gem. The walk down to the cascading pools is nothing short of charming, with stone steps leading you into crystal-clear waters. Depending on when you visit, the rock pools can feel like your own personal infinity pools—just waiting for you to kick back and soak up the tranquility.
It’s also an excellent spot for a picnic, though be sure to bring a good spread—there’s no mobile service at the falls, so this is your cue to unplug and embrace the peaceful surroundings.
Tip: You may have very limited mobile service in the carpark (depending on who your provider is).
Florence Falls: Stay & Swim
Just a short drive on from Buley, you’ll discover Florence Falls. These twin waterfalls are an absolute highlight, cascading into a deep pool that’s perfect for swimming.
The only thing?
There’s a bit of a hike down—about 160 steps to the plunge pool—so keep that in mind if you’ve got anyone in your crew with mobility issues. But trust me, the effort is totally worth it for one of the best swimming spots in the NT!
If the steps seem daunting, there’s a secret route that bypasses the climb. You can access the falls via the nearby 4WD campsite (which is accessible for 2WD vehicles too). It’s a longer walk, but you’ll thank yourself when you don’t have to trek back up the stairs later.
Wangi Falls: Accessible and Scenic
If the steps at Florence Falls sound like a bit much, or you’re looking for something a bit more accessible, Wangi Falls has got you covered. With ramps that lead right down to the swimming area, it’s a friendly spot for visitors of all abilities. Wangi also has picnic facilities and plenty of space to relax.
It’s another stunning waterfall to tick off your Litchfield bucket list!
Wangi Falls - Northern Territory
My Tips for a Great Trip
- Book your campsite early - Florence Falls is popular, and spots can fill up quickly.
- Stay hydrated - The NT heat can be a lot, especially after a long swim.
- Pack a first aid kit and a snake bite kit - better safe than sorry when exploring remote areas.
Litchfield National Park is a true natural treasure just outside of Darwin, offering everything from peaceful campsites to stunning waterfalls. Whether you’re popping in for the day or spending the night, you’re sure to leave with unforgettable memories!