The best camping near Howard Springs Nature Park

Crocodiles might hog the limelight in the Northern Territory capital, but it’s a different reptile getting all the attention at Howard Springs Nature Park. Just a half-hour drive from  Darwin, this family-friendly park is known for its large population of long- and short-neck turtles. Wildlife-watching tops the list of things to do, and you might also spot file snakes, barramundi, Mertens’ Water Monitors, and various bird species as you explore the monsoon forest trails, paddle in the rockpools, or take a swim beneath the waterfall. There’s no camping in the park, but you’ll find plenty of Hipcamps, holiday parks, and caravan parks nearby.

Howard Springs welcomes bushwalkers and wildlife watchers all year-round, but it’s most popular in the dry season (May through September) when the pool is open and ranger-led events take place. If you do visit in the wet season (November through April), keep an eye on the weather conditions and be aware that the trails and pool may be closed for safety reasons.

• Howard Springs Nature Park is located 30 kilometres east of Darwin or about a 25-minute drive along the Stuart Highway. 
• There’s no admission fee to visit the park.
• Facilities at Howard Springs include restrooms, picnic and barbecue areas, a playground, free parking, and a ranger station. 
• There are accessible restrooms and picnic areas at Howard Springs Nature Park.