Litchfield National Park Guide For Best Things To Do

Litchfield National Park’s dramatic landscape has been created by the flow of water over thousands of years.

The spectacular sandstone plateau of the Tabletop Range takes centre stage in this 1500 sq km national park.

Deep gorges have formed due to weathering and erosion, leaving behind a protective shield for the lush rainforest.

The Park is known and loved for the gushing waterfalls that cascade into crystal clear inviting plunge pools. However, Litchfield National Park has a few more secrets tucked under its sleeve!


florence falls litchfield
Stunning Florence Falls

COMPLETE GUIDE TO LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK

 

Litchfield, declared a National Park in 1986, was named after British explorer Fred Litchfield., a Territory Pioneer.

The Park cuts through ancient lands inhabited for thousands of years by Marranunggu, Marrathiel, Warray, Werat & Koongurrukun peoples.

The land is intrinsically linked to their beliefs, their ancestral spirits, still believed to be actively present today.

Once inside the Park all the main attractions are easily accessible from the main road which passes through the Park. The trick is to try and go in the opposite direction to the tour buses and start as early as possible.


Where Is Litchfield National Park?

   

Litchfield national Park is found in the “Top End” of the Northern Territory, and enjoys a tropical, rainforest climate.

The closest township is Batchelor, and the area embraces it’s tropical climate to enjoy an outdoor lifestyle year-round.

It is closer to Darwin than Kakadu National Park, and welcomes over 300,000 visitors every year.


Why Should You Visit Litchfield National Park?

 

Litchfield National Park offers an array of astounding sights and things to do for the most enthusiastic visitor.

The spectacular natural landscape is a force of nature, it’s beauty having no boundaries.

Gushing waterfalls cascade over the edges of weathered red sandstones. Natural crystal clear waterholes, entice even the most wary of swimmers.

You will discover Termite Mounds that will stop you in your tracks, spot wildlife along walking paths and be left feeling inspired.


How To Get To Litchfield National Park?

 

Litchfield National Park is easily accessed from Darwin in the north, Kakadu in the East or Katherine in the south. With its close proximity to Darwin, the park is a popular day trip.

READ ABOUT 35 Unmissable Things To Do In Darwin : 4 Day Itinerary

FROM DARWIN OR KATHERINE / Follow the Stuart Highway (Hwy 1) and turn off on Hwy 30 through the small town of Batchelor. Continue to the well signed Park entrance. This route, on sealed roads, is open all year.

From Darwin : 120 kms, 90mins / From Katherine : 260 kms, 2.5hours


FROM KAKADU NATIONAL PARK / Take either Hwy 21 or Hwy 36 before joining the Stuart Highway as above.

NOTE / During the Dry Season, it is also possible to reach the Park via Cox Peninsular Road, (which has some unsealed sections) and 4WD Reynolds Track from Daly River Road, in the south.

**Always check road conditions before you set off on 1 800 246 199 or visit the website. **


How To Get Around Litchfield National Park

 

Unless you are on a tour, you will need your own transport to get around the Park. Most sites are accessible along bitumen roads in a 2WD.

However, if you want to venture to Lost City or the southern access road for Sandy Creek Fall (Tjaynera) & Surprise Creek Falls, you will need a 4WD.

The issue on the latter roads, is not necessarily the road surface, but the fact of rental insurance cover. So my advice, is to only drive on these roads if you have a 4WD.

Print off a copy of Litchfield National Park Map, and decide which waterfalls you want to see first.

  • Set off early to avoid crowds
  • Try to avoid weekends
  • Consider going in the opposite direction to the tour buses. NOTE / It pays to have a least 2 nights to spend in the Park. We arrived late afternoon, so visited the Termite Mounds that day. We then started with Walker Creek and worked back towards the Termite Mounds, and saw less visitors.
  • Another option is to follow Litchfield Park Road from the Termite Mounds. Take a right turn for Florence Falls/Creek & Buley Rockhole. Then continue to Tolmer and Wangi Falls

Get Park Maps on your mobile phone

If you are visiting a park in the Northern Territory (NT), you can download an interactive park map onto your mobile phone or tablet before you go.

The Avenza Maps app uses your device’s built-in global positioning system (GPS) to help you locate yourself within the park.


When Is The Best Time To Visit Litchfield National Park

 

The Park is blessed with spectacular year-round beauty! While it is open all year, the waterfalls will be at their best in both the early dry season and the wet season.

In the Dry Season (April-September), the weather is warm, with sunny days and cooler nights. This is a very popular time to visit as it is less humid, but plan ahead if you are going to be camping.

Campsites fill up quickly, especially during school holidays and swimming holes will be busier.

In the Wet Season (November-Apri), daytime temperatures can reach 33C (91F) with 80% humidity. Heavy rain can lead to some roads being flooded and closed.

However, with this rain comes thundering waterfalls and foliage/fauna comes alive in a verdant flourish. This can be a great time for a visit.

We visited in September and had fantastic blue skies, glowing sunsets and flowing waterfalls. I would recommend this time of year for your visit.


How Long Should You Spend In Litchfield National Park?

 

With Darwin a mere 120 kms away from Litchfield, this is an ideal day trip to take.

However, with offerings including bushwalking and the 39 km Tabletop Track which takes 3-5 days to complete, it is easy to see how you could spend a week here.

If you want to see all the waterfalls, swim in the waterholes, and take some short walks, then 1 or 2 nights would be about right.

The average traveller will probably be seeing Litchfield as part of a road trip around the Top End or the Northern Territory, so will be restricted for time.


Is There A Park Entrance Fee?

 

There are no entrance fees to enjoy this wonderful National Park. However, if camping, there are fees payable per person, per night.


Best Things To Do in Litchfield National Park

   

LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK WATERFALLS

 

Okay, let’s just address the issue of crocodiles, before we talk about waterfalls and plunge pools!


Are There Crocodiles In Litchfield National Park?

Yes, Saltwater crocodiles live in both saltwater and freshwater areas of the Northern Territory (NT). They are common throughout the Top End and Katherine regions.

You should always be aware of the risk of a saltwater crocodile attack in all Top End waterways.

It is never 100% safe to enter the water. Your personal safety is your responsibility.


Is It Safe To Swim In Litchfield National Park?

Basically, if a waterway does not have a swimming area sign, do not swim in this area.

 

There may still be danger if there is no sign. The area may not be safe or free from saltwater crocodiles. **I must come clean here. We were too nervous to swim in any of the pools!!!**

It is safe to swim in some areas at certain times of the year, as shown below:

  • Wangi Falls – Dry Season Only
  • Florence Falls – All year except during extreme flooding
  • Buley Rockhole – All year except during extreme flooding

1. Wangi Falls

 

Wangi Falls, on Wangi Creek, is a segmented waterfall. The tiers are about 50 metres high, and tumble over the ridged red escarpments above.

Wangi Falls

The trees and lush fauna at the creek edge provide a colourful accompaniment to the red sandstone.

The plunge pool at the bottom of the falls, is extremely popular for swimming.

Note that the swimming spot may be closed following heavy rainfall, and crocodile sightings in the area!

Where?  Found on the west side of the Park from the main road.

Facilities? Tree shaded manicured lawns, picnic tables, a kiosk, barbecues and plunge pool.

Viewing Platform? Cross the footbridge over Wangi Creek, and a walkway leads to a platform on the edge of the pool. **This is on the Wangi Walk (see below)** It is about 400 metres and takes 10 minutes

During the wet season the fast flowing falls are a spectacular sight which must be a sight to behold. Note to self – return trip required!


2. Tolmer Falls

 
Tolmer Falls
 

Tolmer Falls, on Tolmer Creek, is a plunge waterfall, with two tiers that are about 40 metres high,

The falls cascade elegantly over two high sandstone escarpments, plunging into a pool below. Well, they probably look better in the wet season, as the waterfall looked more like a trickle!

 

There is no swimming here, to protect the base of the falls, which is home to several colonies of rare Ghost Bats and Orange Horseshoe Bats. The walls of the gorge have many caves and tunnels, where numerous bats live.

Where? Found on the west side of the Park from the road.

Facilities? BBQ, toilets & easy trail.

Tolmer Falls Walk / 800 metres return to the carpark / 30 minutes return

Starting at the information booth, the path leads you to three seating areas, to enjoy the views. The first seat is set in a stand of cypress trees & cycad plants.

From the second seat, you can view the rock formations found around the secondary plateau.

The third seat offers far reaching views stretching from the base of the Tabletop Range, to the coast.

And then you arrive at a final lookout, built on the edge of the gorge rim. Stand and enjoy the fantastic view!


3. Buley Rockhole

 

This is definitely one of the spots that gets busy quite quickly, and avoid the tour groups.

However, if you manage to park, after a short walk, you will be greeted by a set of rock holes, with cascading pools.

The rocks can be a bit slippery but it is relaxing to sit with the water around you, as you take in the stunning scenery.

You can choose from shallow pools or swim in one of the plunge pools instead.

Where?  Down a short road, off Buley Florence Road

Facilities? Picnic area, toilets, changing facilities & showers


4. Florence Falls

 
 

Florence Falls, on Florence Creek, is a segmented waterfall. Descending from a series of segmented tiers of different heights, two waterfalls plunge from a great height into a pool below.

As an Aboriginal Custodian said :

“That element of running water makes it an exclusive place; exclusive to the individual. You got peace of mind on that creek”.

The contrast between the sandstone plateau, the cascading water and wet lush green forest is mesmerising.

Steps from the car park, lead to two waterfalls that fall into a plunge pool. Sturdy steps take you straight into the pool, which is an extremely popular swimming spot!

The water here is crystal clear, so bring goggles try and spot some fish.

Where? Found on the north side of the Park, accessed by a sealed road.

Facilities? Picnic facilities, BBQ, toilets, parking, swimming & short walks, including Shady Creek walk.

Viewpoint Lookout Walk: 300 metres one way / 5 min walk from carpark

From the carpark, a short walk brings you to a lookout over the gorge with excellent views of Florence Falls. There is a highlighted contrast between the dry sandstone plateau, and the wet green monsoon forest.


LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK TERMITE MOUNDS

 

Dotted along red dirt plains, these are incredible architectural feats built by termites, yes termites!

An Array Of Termite Mounds
Cathedral Termite Mound!
 

They come complete with tunnels, arches, chimneys, insulation and nursery chambers. If that wasn’t amazing enough, the mounds are also aligned north to south to minimise exposure to the sun!

I was lost for words the more I read about these termites. How do they come to build the mounds?

Do they have a community meeting and a coming together of minds?

Does one termite say to the others, hey do you fancy joining my building company and build a mound or too?

Seriously, this is spectacular!

A formal viewing area is located just off Litchfield Park Road. Boardwalks take you close to 2 metre high thin Magnetic Termite Mounds. These are aligned north to south, and to the giant 4 meter high Cathedral Termite Mounds.

Across the road, is a magnificent cathedral Termite Mound which at 5 metres tall, could be over 50 years old.

Currently home to a colony of grass eating cathedral termites don’t you know!

Where? The viewing area & boardwalks are just off Litchfield Park Road in the northern area of the Park. About 17 kilometres from the eastern boundary of the Park are the first major group of mounds.


SHORT WALKS IN LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK

 

There are short walks leaving from most of the popular sites. Tracks are marked from the carparks & along the track itself.

Most walks vary from 1km to 3km in length.

They are a great opportunity to look out for wildlife and some of the 169 bird species which have been recorded in the Park.

 

1. Wangi Falls Walk

 

Distance: 1.6km (loop) / Time: 1hour / Track: Moderate & steep in sections / Start: Picnic area Wangi Plunge Pool

Wangi Falls Track
 

On reading this sign, Richard was actively looking for spiders. I mean REALLY searching, lifting branches up, inspecting tree trunks … you name it.

I however, was enjoying the beautiful trail with eyes firmly above ground level, well that is until I tripped and nearly went flying.

I then conceded to keeping a mediocre eye on the ground but was actively NOT looking for any spiders.

After crossing Wangi Creek and stopping at the viewing platform, join the main track. The first viewpoint is in the canopy of the monsoon forest, after 65 steps.

Climb the remaining steps, to the secondary plateau, taking you above Wangi Falls, for a great view.

 

The track then loops over Wangi Creek, winding its way down the escarpment and rainforest, to the lower plunge pool. Here you can take a dip, or return to the carpark.


2. Tolmer Creek Walk

 

Distance: 1.6km / Time: 45mins / Track: Moderate / Start: Tolmer Falls Lookout

This walk makes a pleasant route back to the carpark from the lookout. Taking you through sandstone around the gorge rim, you then join Tolmer Creek.

The track follows the creek line and is fairly level, and rocky in places. Keep an eye out for cycads (cycas calcicola), only found in Katherine and on the Tabletop Range.

Continue on to the carpark.


3. Florence Falls Plunge Pool Walk

 

Distance: 800 metre one way / Time: 15 mins / Start: Carpark

Starting from the falls lookout, the track follows the gorge rim, to a set of 135 steps, descending to the valley floor. You then cross Florence Creek via a walkway.

After a short walk, you reach the plunge pool, which has metal steps to help you get into the water. To return to the carpark, either follow the path back, or take the Shady Creek Walk.


4. Shady Creek Walk

 

Distance: 1km one way / Time: 30 mins / Track: Easy / Start: Florence Falls Picnic Area or the plunge pool

This easy scenic walk along Shady Creek, takes you through monsoon forest and open savanna woodland. You cross the creek via footbridges several times, as you walk up to the plateau.

It is a great alternative to the main track leading to the plunge pool. It has 160 stairs, but is an easy track to follow.


5. Florence Creek Walk

 

Distance: 3.2km / Time: 70mins / Track: Easy / Start: Upstream picnic area or Buley Rockhole / Tip: Park your vehicle in one of the car parks at Florence Falls as parking is limited at Buley Rockhole.

This walk follows Florence Creek between Florence Falls and Buley Rockhole.

Although rated as easy, the track is rocky underfoot in places, and can involve shallow water during the wet season. The path becomes paved as you approach Buley Rockhole.

This is a series of rock holes in the creek, as it tumbles down the hillside. Swimming is permitted year-round, unless there is flooding.

From here, it is a short walk to the carpark at Buley Rockhole.


OTHER THINGS TO DO IN LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK

 

Although we didn’t have time to do the following, I have researched the details in case you would like to include them on your trip!

1. Blyth Homestead

 

Life was incredibly tough for early Australian Pioneers, especially families. Blyth Homestead was the home of the Sargent family from 1929, until it was abandoned in the early 1960’s.

Now it serves as a charmingly rustic reminder of the harsh times gone through by Harry & Alma Sargent, with their 14 children.

In this remote and tough landscape, the Sargents were successful growing grains & vegetables, raising beef cattle and producing milk, butter, cream, cheese and bread.

They were totally self-sufficient, even through the depression.

The historic building has an interactive exhibition depicting the trials and tribulations undergone by the family. The property was included in the land that became Litchfield and is a great example of Top End bushcraft architecture.

Take time to read the stories, then check out the ruins of the old tin mine, also on the property. Entry is free.

Getting There: Access to Blyth Homestead is by 4WD access only and the road is subject to flooding during the tropical season (November to April). There are two water crossings before you reach the Blyth Homestead ruins. 


2. The Lost City

 
 

The Lost city is a fantastic collection of towering red sandstone rock formations. These natural freestanding structures, have been shaped by wind, rain and erosion, over millions of years!

Getting Here: Located in a remote and hard to access area of the Park. The track is extremely rocky and rough, and often impassable during the wet season. You should only tackle the track if you are an experienced four-wheel driver.


3. Take A Helicopter Flight

 

If you have the money and no aversion to being in a helicopter, why not discover a unique way to view Litchfield National Park?

With Litchfield Helicopters, their “Quick Look” Flight, will take you around Wangi Falls and then north along the Litchfield escarpment to the Cascades. With a flight time of around six minutes this flight will showcase the vast area around Litchfield along with the park’s main waterfall attraction.


4. Tackle The Tabletop Track

 

This 39 km circuit track, through remote Top End wilderness, is suitable for fit, experienced and well-prepared walkers.

What an opportunity though, to get off the beaten track and head out into remote landscapes!

You have to be able to carry all your own supplies as there are minimal facilities along the trail.

The track cuts through woodlands and creeks, taking the walker to stunning waterfalls and swimming pools.

You can access the track from link walks at Florence Falls, Greenant Creek, Wangi Falls and Walker Creek. These link walks can be used to shorten the length of track that you tackle.

When? Only open during the Dry Season. Be aware that the threat of wildfires may close the track at times.

How? Download an information sheet and map.


ACCOMMODATION IN LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK

 

There are various accommodation options open to you, depending where you want to stay. I have put together a handpicked list of the best accommodation, per location, to make your trip as smooth as possible

I have indicated the distance / travel time from each property to the Magnetic Termite Mounds for reference.

   

DARWIN / Mindil Beach Casino & Resort – Set beside a private beach within 30 acres of lush gardens, this is all about a luxury stay! Modern spacious rooms, lagoon pool and FREE parking, make this a great deal. (133km/1hr 40min)

DARWIN / Saltwater Suites – Great location at the Waterfront, and a choice of 1,2 or 3 bedroom apartments. We have stayed here, and loved it! Great option for saving money on meals. (135km/1hr 40min)

 

RAKULA / Hideaway Litchfield – Great villa accommodation featuring a fully equipped kitchenette and FREE parking. If you are looking for a hideaway feel, that is still close to the Park entrance, this ticks the boxes! (39km/30min)

BATCHELOR / Litchfield Tourist Park – Offering comfortable, clean units with a balcony and garden views. Lovely atmosphere and great spots for campervans & tents. We stayed here in our campervan and it is a peaceful and scenic spot. (22km/18min)

Our Spot At Litchfield Tourist Park

CAMPING IN LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK

 

The only accommodation available inside the Park, is campsites. These are operated by Parks and Wildlife NT, and are great value for money.

Camping is on a first come, first served basis. You cannot book in advance

There are 6 great value campsites within Litchfield National Park:

  • Wangi Falls – Caravans allowed and there are showers for visitors. Offers 2WD driving camping option
  • Florence Falls – offers 2WD & 4WD camping options
  • Buley Rockhole – offers 2WD camping option
  • Sandy Creek – Offers 4WD camping option
  • Surprise Creek – Offers 4WD camping option
  • Walter Creek – walk in campsite operating in Dry Season only.

Fees for category A and B campgrounds are collected on-site. You must provide the correct amount as change is not available.

Category A campgrounds (Wangi Falls, Florence Falls, Buley & Sandy Creek) have more facilities, including showers, and charge $6.60 per adult.

Category B campgrounds ( Surprise & Walter) charge $3.30 per adult and have less facilities.

  • Pets are not permitted in the Park
  • Generators cannot be used
  • All water must be boiled or treated before consumption
  • All your rubbish must be taken out of the Park

Places To Eat in Litchfield National Park

 

The only place to eat inside the Park, is Wangi Falls Cafe, located at Wangi Falls. Opening Hours / May to Sept 10am-3pm / Oct to Apr 11am-2pm

Litchfield Cafe is located at Litchfield Park Rd, Rakula (5km past the Wangi Falls turnoff, when coming from Batchelor). Opening Hours / Daily 10am-4pm, June to Aug

Litchfield Tourist Park Cafe & Take Away is located at 2916 Litchfield Park Road, Rum Jungle. Opening Hours / Check the website

Ready For Breakfast In The Rustic Shed!

Rum Jungle Tavern is located at 5 Nurndina Street, Rum Jungle. Opening Hours /


Litchfield National Park Safety

 

To enjoy your trip to the fullest, be aware of these points:

  • only swim in designated marked areas
  • carry and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
  • wear a hat, insect repellent and sunscreen for sun protection
  • wear suitable clothing and footwear
  • carry a first aid kit
  • avoid strenuous activity during the heat of the day
  • use free interactive park maps on your mobile phone or tablet
  • Lock your vehicle and secure valuables out of sight
  • Do not sit on bare ground or grass as scrub typhus is transmitted by microscopic bush mites on grasses and bushes.

I hope this post helps you to plan your own visit to Litchfield National Park. If you have any questions, please share them in the comments.

This rich diverse land, offers up it’s bewildering sights for those who take the time to explore.


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