Ready to pitch a tent somewhere picture perfect? Take your pick with our list of the top campgrounds in the Northern Territory!
The Northern Territory is a vast and untamed wilderness, a place where you can truly disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the outback. With its dramatic landscapes, unique wildlife, and a rich Aboriginal culture, the Northern Territory is a camper’s paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a novice camper, there are countless camping spots that will leave you in awe of nature’s wonders.
Promising to be a life changing experience, each of these camping locations offers a unique connection to the natural world, making it a must-visit destination for any camper or nature enthusiast. So, pack your camping gear and get ready to explore the wonders of Australia’s top end with our list of the best camping spots in the Northern Territory!
Photographed by The Salty Travellers. Image via Tourism NT.
Alice Springs
One would not usually expect a thriving remote town to also be one of the best places to camp in the Northern Territory. But, Alice Springs’ rugged landscapes offer a diverse range of camping experiences to travellers. Pick between the West MacDonnell Ranges and stay at Redbank Gorge, Ellery Creek Big Hole, or Ormiston Gorge campgrounds for breathtaking views and stargazing opportunities. You can also venture further into the Simpson Desert for a truly remote experience.
Photographed by Sean Scott. Image via Tourism NT.
Devil's Marbles Conservation Reserve
Located on the Stuart Highway, the Devil’s Marbles Conservation Reserve is famous for its gigantic granite boulders. Camping here is a unique experience, as you can set up your tent amidst these mysterious rock formations. The Reserve offers a basic campground with minimal facilities, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a more rugged adventure.
Photographed by Rob Mulally. Image via Tourism NT.
East Arnhem Land
If you’re looking for some of the best camping spots in the Northern Territory, East Arnhem Land comes to mind first thanks to its unspoiled ecosystem. With 17 different campsites to choose from, here you’ll find white sanded beaches, a rugged coastline, open forests, shaded inland waterways and conditions perfect for four-wheel driving. With something for everyone, East Arnhem Land will keep you busy during the day with unique campsites allowing fishing, coating, camping, hiking and, of course, exploring!
Photographed by All About Adventure. Image via Tourism NT.
Elsey National Park
Also known as “We of the Never Never” country, Elsey National Park near Mataranka is famous for its warm thermal springs, particularly Bitter Springs and Mataranka Homestead. The nearby campgrounds provide a peaceful and rejuvenating camping experience in a lush tropical environment. One of the top camping spots in the Northern Territory!
Photographed by Tyson Mayr. Image via Tourism NT.
Kakadu National Park
Kakadu National Park is an iconic World Heritage-listed area that offers an extraordinary camping experience. There are various campgrounds to choose from – most which are equip with toilets, showers, picnic tables, barbecues and fire pits – but Merl Campground is one of the most popular, providing access to stunning billabongs and incredible rock art sites. Alternatively, our favourite is the Ngurrungurrudjba (Yellow Water) Campground. Regardless of which campground you choose, you’re bound to encounter abundant wildlife, pristine waterfalls, and unique geological formations.
Photographed by Shaana McNaught. Image via Tourism NT.
Litchfield National Park
Under a two-hour drive from Darwin, Litchfield National Park, although it is famed for its magnetic termite mounts and captivating waterfalls, it’s home to some of the top campgrounds in the Northern Territory. For instance, Florence Falls and Wangi Falls offer great camping facilities nearby and are equipped with amenities like toilets, showers, and picnic areas, making it an ideal choice for families and first-time campers.
Photographed by Sean Scott. Image via Tourism NT.
Lorella Springs Wilderness Park
Located in the Gulf Region of the Northern Territory, Lorella Springs is an adventure lover’s dream. This massive wilderness park provides camping options ranging from basic bush campsites to more developed areas with amenities. Explore the various thermal springs, gorges, and 4WD tracks that this park has to offer. One of the best camping spots in the Northern Territory!
Photographed by Sean Scott. Image via Tourism NT.
Nitmiluk National Park
Home to the stunning Katherine Gorge which can be explored by boat, canoe or on foot, Nitmiluk National Park is also jampacked with some of the best camping locations in the Northern Territory. Although there’s plenty of camping spots to choose from, we adore the popular Leilyn Campground which is close to Edith Falls and provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to swim in the clear waters and explore some of the beautiful nearby gorges.
Image supplied.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Part of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is Longitude 131, one of the best and most luxurious campsites in the Northern Territory. More glamping than camping, here there’s 16 tented pavilions offering immersive, unparalleled views of Uluru. With fine dining, Indigenous-inspired spa treatments, a plunge pool, complimentary champagne and rooms fitted with original Indigenous artworks, this is truly the only way to fully immerse yourself in the spiritual heart of our beautiful country. If you’re looking for one of Australia’s most luxurious glamping spots, this is it.
Photographed by Harrison Miller and Lauren Witherow. Image via Tourism NT.
West MacDonnell National Park
Stretching west from Alice Springs, the West MacDonnell Ranges provide an excellent opportunity for camping and hiking. There are numerous campsites in the West MacDonnell National Park including 2WD caravan campsites Ormiston Gorge and the Ellery Creek Big Hole. Alternatively look to Serpentine Chalet and Finke for bush camping, or the Redbank Gorge for a 4WD accessible campsite. Regardless of where you choose to stay for the night, you’ll be surrounded by rugged canyons, waterholes and mesmerising ancient Aboriginal rock art.
For more travel inspiration, check out our guide to the 5 Unique Getaway Gems to Discover around the Northern Territory. And before you head off on your next adventure, be sure to pack these 10 Must-Have Road Trip Travel Items!
We acknowledge the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.
