Start school holidays with a splash

Department of Environment, Parks and Water Security

The Department of Environment, Parks and Water Security is encouraging everyone to get out and about in our Parks and Reserves during the Christmas period.

Rangers from across the Territory are working hard to ensure as many of our Parks and Reserves as possible are open for you to enjoy.

Despite the start of the Wet Season kicking off in the Top End, some of the major attractions at Litchfield National Park are still open.

You can try your luck fishing for the Million Dollar Fish on the Mary River and Manton Dam, or enjoy a shady beachside walk on the extensive walking trails at Casuarina Coastal Reserve.

In the Katherine region, Nitmiluk National Park has enjoyed a freshen up after a bit of rain, with swimming still an option at Leliyn (Edith Falls) and the Southern Rockhole with the loop walk a great way to take in the sights early morning to avoid the heat.

Picturesque Bitter Springs and the Thermal Pool in Elsey National Park are also great swim options for families.

The majority of campgrounds in Central Australia are open, with mild nights forecast making it the perfect time to get out and about and sleep under the stars. Redbank Gorge and Boggy Hole have enough water for a nice cool off in the warmer weather.

Windows on the Wetlands will be closed from January 1.

Unpredictable weather at this time of year can mean both opens and closures at short notice. Check the website before heading out to avoid disappointment: https://nt.gov.au/leisure/parks-reserves

Quotes by Executive Director of Parks and Wildlife, Sally Egan

“The Christmas break gives Territorians a fantastic opportunity to explore our Parks and Reserves, and we encourage everyone to put safety first.

“Rangers work hard to ensure as much as possible is open for you to enjoy, however if it is closed, it’s for a reason such as high water levels impacting the ability to conduct crocodile management surveys, or currents make it too dangerous to swim, or the weather has made access too dangerous. Please respect any closures.

“Crocodiles live in waterways across the Top End and it is important to Be Crocwise at all times.

“Walking in hot weather can be dangerous and sometimes even deadly. Even if you are an experienced walker, you should take precautions when visiting NT parks.”

Department of Environment, Parks and Water Security Media Manager:

/Public Release. View in full here.