There’s something about Litchfield that gets under your skin in the best way. Maybe it’s the easy access to iconic waterfalls, crystal-clear swimming holes, or the way the bush comes alive at sunrise with birdsong and golden light. Whatever it is, this Top End gem is a favourite of mine, and I reckon it’s one of the most underrated camping destinations in the country.
Only 90 minutes south of Darwin, Litchfield National Park offers something for everyone, with sealed and unsealed roads, great 4WD-only adventures, and a mix of campgrounds that range from basic bush setups to more established sites with all the creature comforts. After countless visits, I’ve narrowed down my top five campsites in Litchfield where I’d happily pull up any day of the week or park the van for a few days of relaxation.
1. WANGI FALLS CAMPGROUND
Campsites at Wangi Falls are popular, so book well in advance if you want to enjoy a great site and a short walk to the stunning falls. It is the best for iconic views, swimming, and accessibility.
Wangi Falls is arguably the most popular and photogenic destination in Litchfield, and with good reason. Towering twin waterfalls plunge into a large plunge pool surrounded by monsoonal forest. It’s the kind of place where you can knock back a cuppa in the morning while watching the mist lift off the water.
The campground is well-equipped with hot showers, flushing toilets, barbecues, picnic tables, and even a mobile coffee cart during peak season. There are 2WD and 4WD-accessible sites, and while it can get busy during the dry season, I’ve never failed to find a shady patch for my camper.
There is also a friendly camp host onsite during busy periods. Don’t be afraid to ask for some local knowledge – you might find out about a place that the hoards don’t know about.
A short walking track loops around the falls and up to a scenic lookout. If the pool is open for swimming (it occasionally closes during the wet season or after croc sightings), you’ll be hard-pressed to drag yourself away.
Hot tip: Book ahead online through NT Parks, especially during school holidays or long weekends. There’s also a bushwalk to Tjaetaba Falls if you’re up for stretching your legs further.
2. CENTRAL VALLEY CAMPGROUND
The Central Valley Campground is best for remote vibes, peaceful bush camping, and creek swimming. It is one of Litchfield’s quiet achievers; a tucked-away gem for those who like their camping wild, peaceful, and off the radar. Access is via a signed turn-off from Litchfield Park Road. Follow the track to a T-junction, then head left to reach Central Valley, or right if you’re keen to explore the surreal sandstone spires of the Lost City.
The area includes three distinct campgrounds, each offering a handful of secluded sites along a spring-fed creek system. These creeks feed a series of clear, safe swimming holes, perfect for a midday dip or sunset soak. It’s pure Top End serenity, far from the crowds.
Facilities include drop toilets and fire pits, but no drinking water or power, so you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient. Caravans aren’t permitted, and while some folks do take in offroad camper trailers, the sites are best suited to rooftop tents, swags, and other lightweight setups.
Hot tip: If you’re towing a caravan and want to enjoy the serenity of Central Valley, consider leaving your van at one of the nearby caravan parks, such as Litchfield Safari Park or Litchfield Tourist Park. Both offer secure spots and plenty of amenities, giving you a comfy base before heading off for a few days of peaceful creekside camping.
3. TJAYNERA FALLS (SANDY CREEK) CAMPGROUND
The campsites at Shady Campground are spacious. This campground is best for off-grid serenity and waterfall adventures.
Tjaynera Falls, tucked away at the end of a 4WD-only track, is one of Litchfield’s true hidden gems. To get here, you’ll need to negotiate a few shallow creek crossings and some corrugations; nothing a capable 4WD can’t handle, but enough to keep the crowds at bay.
The campground itself is basic, with drop toilets and fire pits, but its isolation makes it a perfect bush base. From here, it’s a 1.7km walk through savannah woodland to the falls, where water cascades into a large plunge pool surrounded by cliffs. It’s an idyllic spot for a swim and a picnic. Most of the time, you’ll have it to yourself.
Birdlife is prolific here too. Keep an eye out for kingfishers, honeyeaters and rainbow bee-eaters darting through the paperbarks.
Hot tip: Carry a small daypack with water, snacks and swimmers for the walk to the falls. Camping is first-come, first-served – arrive early in the day to secure a good site.
4. FLORENCE FALLS OLD 4WD CAMPGROUND
Florence Falls is a short walk from the Old 4WD Campground, which itself is accessible by 2WD vehicles and has a range of sites to suit all comers. It is best for classic Top End camping with easy access to waterfalls.
Florence Falls is another Litchfield icon, and while the main campground can get busy, the 2WD-accessible section offers a more laid-back experience. It’s just a short drive off the main loop road, and the sites here are spread out, with plenty of space for caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, rooftop tents or swags under the stars.
Facilities include flushing toilets, fire pits, picnic tables, and hot showers, although Florence Falls itself is all the shower you’ll need. A short walk down the gorge takes you to a magical swimming hole with twin falls cascading into deep, clear water. It’s one of the most beautiful spots in the park, and early morning swims here are something else.
If you’re up for a bit of a walk, the Florence Creek Trail links this campground to Buley Rockhole, another great swimming spot with tiered pools and fewer people in the early morning or late arvo.
Hot tip: Stay two nights and hike the Florence-Buley loop at dawn – you’ll beat the heat and the crowds.
5. LITCHFIELD SAFARI CAMP
The pool at Litchfield Safari Camp is a great place to relax after a day exploring the national park. This campground is best for comfort, facilities, and a central base for exploring the wider park.
If you’d like a little more comfort while still staying close to the action, Litchfield Safari Camp is a fantastic option. Located 5km from Wangi Falls and directly opposite the Cascades, it’s perfectly positioned to explore some of the park’s best-loved attractions.
The campground caters for everyone, with powered and unpowered sites, glamping tents, and bush camping areas. Facilities are a step up from the national park sites, offering a camp kitchen, barbecues, laundry facilities, flushing toilets, hot showers, and a stunning swimming pool – a welcome bonus on a hot Top End afternoon.
The sites are spacious and shaded, and there’s a friendly atmosphere, with plenty of fellow travellers to swap yarns with at day’s end. Whether you’re in a caravan, camper, or pitching a swag, Litchfield Safari Camp offers a more comfortable base without losing the bush vibe.
Hot tip: Use this as your hub for a few nights and explore Wangi Falls, the Cascades, and Florence Falls from here. Then duck back for a dip in the pool and a sundowner in the camp kitchen.
LITCHFIELD CAMPING TIPS
- Timing is everything: The dry season (May to September) is prime time for visiting Litchfield. Most of the waterfalls are flowing, roads are open, and the weather is perfect;
- Croc-wise camping: Litchfield is managed for crocodiles, but always check signs and NT Parks updates. Don’t assume that because others are swimming, it’s safe – do your own checks;
- Respect the land: Take all rubbish with you, use designated fire pits, and respect the cultural significance of sites throughout the park. Many locations are important to the Traditional Owners and deserve our care; and
- Permits and bookings: Some campgrounds require bookings via NT Parks; others are first-come, first-served. You can check availability and book online at nt.gov.au
LAST WORD
Litchfield might not have the scale of Kakadu, but it more than makes up for it with ease of access, reliable swimming holes, and that perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, starry skies, or quiet bush camps, it’s a destination that keeps calling you back.
These five campsites are just a taste; there’s plenty more to discover once you roll off the bitumen and into this Top End paradise.
FAST FACTS
GETTING TO LITCHFIELD
Litchfield National Park is about 120km south of Darwin, with sealed access via the Stuart and Batchelor roads, making it an easy drive for caravans and RVs.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO
Highlights include the dramatic Florence Falls, the crystal-clear Buley Rockhole, towering magnetic termite mounds, and the impressive sandstone cliffs of Wangi Falls. Short walks lead to stunning lookouts and secluded swimming holes, while 4WDers can explore remote areas like Tjaynera Falls.
ESSENTIALS
Include plenty of drinking water and insect repellent, and make sure your fuel is topped up before entering; there’s none available inside the park. Most campsites offer basic facilities, and the dry season (May to October) is the best time to visit for cooler weather and accessible roads.
