Top spots in the Top End for a family road trip
The NT is one epic outdoor classroom for both the young and the young at heart. Here are the top spots in the Top End for a family road trip.
By Jessica Palmer,
December 14, 2022
Anyone who’s visited the NT’s Top End on a road trip will know it is one epic outdoor classroom for both the young and young at heart. Families can explore sacred landscapes, spot a diverse range of wildlife and experience Aboriginal cultures over six decades old.
Both the Top End and the Red Centre of the NT are great options for parents looking to provide a holiday that is not only fun and unique, but also educational and culturally enriching. And what better (and more affordable) way to do this than on a classic Aussie family road trip adventure?
Here are some of the best spots in the top end for a family road trip that the kids will remember for years to come.
Bitter Springs
There is nothing bitter about this place. It’s a simply stunning spot not to be missed on your Top End road trip! The entire family can soak up the Bitter Springs’ natural thermal waters surrounded by beautiful native flora and fauna. I won’t say the dip is particularly refreshing on a hot day with water temperatures in the thirties, but floating in the crystal clear waters is an experience not to be missed. The springs have long been enjoyed by the Mangarrayi and Yangman people as Traditional Owners, who discovered these natural wonders.
Where to camp to experience Bitter Springs
Cutta Cutta Caves
The only limestone cave experience accessible to the public in your Top End road trip, the mysterious Cutta Cutta Caves are a memorable experience for the whole family. Why? Because they’re 15 metres underground! Formed millions of years ago and still growing, the caves cover a whopping 1,499 hectares. From rare bats to endangered birds, families can spot the resident wildlife in their natural habitat. Tour guides will explain the tropical cave systems and the site’s cultural importance.
Where to camp to experience Cutta Cutta Caves
Katherine
Where the outback meets the tropics you’ll find Katherine, one of the most unique towns in Australia. Families can enjoy thermal springs, misty waterfalls, museums, Aboriginal arts centres and local eateries. Make sure to allow some extra days here on your Top End road trip to really enjoy the region.
Chill out at the Katherine Hot Springs and/or jump on a cultural cruise through Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. Families who aren’t afraid of adventure can hire double canoes and glide through the gorges past waterfalls and ancient Aboriginal rock art on the soaring cliffs.
Where to camp to experience Katherine
- Boab Caravan Park
- Discovery Parks
- Gorge View Bush Retreat
- Manbulloo Homestead & Caravan Park
- Riverview Tourist Village
- Roper Bar Park & Store
- Little Roper Stock Camp
Leliyn (Edith Falls)
On the western side of Nitmiluk National Park, don’t miss the chance to cool off at Leliyn (Edith Falls). A culturally important site for the Jawoyn people, you won’t forget this series of stunning pools and cascading waterfalls in a hurry. Families can sleep under the stars just 150 metres from the plunge pools. Anyone who has done a road trip in the Top End will declare this one of the highlights.
Where to camp to experience Leliyn (Edith Falls)
Beswick and Barunga
Only accessible with local guides, don’t miss a stop at Beswick Falls, an ancient playground and spiritual site. Families will pass by billabongs with buffalo, brumbies, kangaroos and birds before arriving at the falls. Also, check out the Djiplin Arts Centre to watch the local Aboriginal artists in action.
If you’re planning on hitting up a festival on your Top End road trip, time your visit for August so you can catch the Barunga Festival.
A permit is required to visit Barunga.
Where to camp to experience Beswick and Barunga
- Campsites are available through the community and marked on the Barunga Festival site map.
The Top End of the NT is amazing not only for families but for couples, singles and grey nomads alike. So book in your time off, book a motorhome if you don’t have your own home on wheels and start planning your 2023 adventure in the NT.
