LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK
a guide to litchfield park
Where does the name Litchfield come from ?
Litchfield is named after Fred Litchfield who in 1865 traversed the region as part of the first survey expedition of the Top End by the South Australian Government. The region was dotted with fossicking type mining and cattle ranching for many decades.
When was the park created ?
Although it reached National Park status in 1986, it was only declared under section 12 (1)(a) of the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act in July 1991. The park was then re-declared under the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act in 2002.
Today, Litchfield National Park falls under the management role of the Minister for Tourism and Culture. It is one of 87 parks in the NT portfolio and contributes about 150,000 ha to a total of just over 5 million hectares.
Settlement History of Litchfield Park
Litchfield National Park is a great place to learn about the settlement history of the Top End. The park played an important role in World War II, and there are several sites throughout the park that commemorate this history. The park is also home to several historic buildings, including Blyth Homestead, which provides a glimpse into the early European settlement of the area.
Key Features of Litchfield Park
Litchfield National Park is a stunning natural wonder located in the Northern Territory of Australia. A popular destination for tourists and locals alike, the park is known for its beautiful waterfalls, dramtic landscapes, lush monsoon forests, and unique fauna and flora.
If you’re looking for a National Park to visit during your trip to Darwin, Litchfield is definitely worth considering. Here are some of the key features of Litchfield National Park, including camping options and tours from Darwin.
Indigenous Aspects of Litchfield National Park
Litchfield National Park is the traditional land of 4 Aboriginal groups: Werat, Koongurrukun, Mak Mak Marranunggu and Warray Aboriginal people. It is steeped in ancestral history of those who have used the land as a resource for thousands of years.
Litchfield Waterfalls
Litchfield National Park is home to an impressive collection of waterfalls, including Florence Falls, Wangi Falls, Tolmer Falls and Buley Rockhole. Each waterfall has its own unique charm and beauty.
Florence Falls is a popular spot for swimming and snorkelling, with crystal clear waters and a stunning backdrop of rugged cliffs.
Wangi Falls is also a favourite among visitors, boasting a large swimming hole and an impressive cascade of water.
Tolmer Falls, on the other hand, is known for its stunning views and its popularity as a spot for bird watching. These waterfalls offer plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the park, making it a popular choice for tours from Darwin.
Buley Rockhole is an edenic collection of short cascades including many spots to get a soothing water massage.
Litchfield Fauna & Flora
In addition to its waterfalls, Litchfield National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including some that are unique to the Northern Territory.
Visitors can see the famous magnetic and cathedral termite mounds that dot the landscape, or the beautiful Pandanus trees that line the waterways. You might even spot a wallaby or a possum while exploring the park. For bird watchers, the park is a paradise, with over 260 different species recorded in the area. The park offers visitors a chance to see some of Australia’s most iconic wildlife.
Crocodiles in Litchfield
Litchfield Crocodiles
Yes there are crocodiles in Litchfield National Park. Anywhere in the Northern Territory is never 100% guaranteed to be safe from crocodiles, however, don’t let this put you off. In the dry season (May to October), all the most popular places are cleared of saltwater crocs (salties) which are the most dangerous to humans. Although it is noted that you should always read the swimming information signs and not swim where it is banned.
There is always a chance of freshwater crocs in the dry season in Litchfield National Park but it is safe to swim as freshies feed on fish etc. But do not approach or intimidate a freshwater crocodile.
In the wet season, most popular swimming spots are closed due to flooding which allows saltwater crocs to enter easily. So if you visit in the wet season (from November to April), be prepared that you will not be able to swim as easily.
Self Drive to Litchfield Park
Most main attractions in Litchfield national park have a sealed road accessible in a 2WD however there are many swimming holes, walking trails and camping spots only accessible by 4WD too.
Whether it be a hire car or your own vehicle, there are many benefits to self-driving to Litchfield National Park and is certainly an easy option to get there from Darwin (for the most part anyway). However, with any self-drive trip there are many things to consider such as itinerary, safety, food and water supplies, travel conditions, accommodation options etc. ‘
Read our guide on Self Drive in NT.
Ride a bike to Litchfield
A bike is a very eco-friendly option and one that will justify many beverages at the end of the day (for those that need justification). To do this you will need multiple days and a good plan if things go wrong. Certainly every year there are a handful of people that do this however be aware that the roads both in the park and access the park (highway) do not have much in the way of shoulder verges so traffic is a constant concern.
There are also road trains frequently operating in the region which create strong drag currents and buffering … all in all a dicey proposition.
Fly to Litchfield
That’s right, Helicopter flights can be arranged to land in Litchfield which cost around $10 a minute. Push the boat out and land in style or book a full helicopter tour to see all of Litchfield National Park from above.
Litchfield tour companies
In general for those who are looking to understand and fully appreciate Litchfield Park and the region then a quality guided tour is most often the best option. There is a broad range of professional businesses and individuals offering public group and private tours to Litchfield Park. These vary from budget through to premium and personal to the opposite of personal.
Group size is such an important aspect when choosing an organised tour. Be sure to give it consideration before settling on a company.
When it comes to cost, size does matter. Premium tours typically have long term experienced guides (5 years or more) with formal (University) qualifications. They will also limit the group size to 10 or less to enhance the day trip experience. You should also be looking forward to the menu items on the premium tour with home-prepared items being the standout. You will pay for this however if you only do it once, do it right.
Who goes to Litchfield ?
Litchfield National Park is considered by most people in the tourism industry as the cornerstone of all tourism in the Top End.
In fact, visitor numbers to Litchfield are third behind Casuarina Coastal Reserve and the World Heritage Area of Uluru Kata Tjuta. Litchfield consistently has significantly more visitors that even World Heritage Kakadu National Park.
In 2018 Kakadu had 200,577 visitors in total which was the highest number in decades. For the same period Litchfield saw 331,300 visitors travel to enjoy.
The majority of visitors are Australians traveling interstate (70%) followed by international (18%) and then intrastate (12%). Regardless of the origins all have great cause to make the journey.
Where is Litchfield National Park ?
Where is Litchfield National Park ?
The Eastern entry to the park is found at:
- DEG: -13.040208 130.92514
- DMS: 13º 02′ 24.75″ S 130º 55′ 30.51″ E
- UTM: 52 L 8557626mN 708767mE
- Altitude: 76.38m
From Darwin travel 100 km south on the Stuart Highway and turn off to the small country town of Batchelor. Stop in at the local Batchelor Museum. The museum does an amazing job of capturing some of the unique aspects of the life and times of the region before continuing on to the park.
The eastern entry to Litchfield is about 20 km down the road. All is sealed bitumen and in great condition.
All in all from Darwin centre to the eastern entry to Litchfield is around 140 km and should take about 90 minutes of safe driving.
What makes Litchfield National Park great ?
What makes Litchfield National Park Great ?
The reasons for Litchfield National Parks’ popularity are many and varied, which combined together make it an awesome park for locals and visitors alike. In no particular order, major attractions include:
- Clear representation in the geological sequence of ancient landform changes and world evolution
- Monsoon Forest with a high degree of biological diversity
- High degree of variability in ecotypes
- Ancient landscape with rich historical stories
- Adventurous hiking trails
- Proximity to Darwin – only 90 minutes south of Darwin City Centre and accessible all year round
- Pristine Rock Pools
- Stunning waterfalls
- Beautiful Camping Grounds
- Magnetic termite mounds
- Access to quality basic facilities – toilets, café, kiosk, drinking water, Wifi
- Diversity of experiences – Hiking trails (long/short/ tracks/non-tracks/ short to multi-day), swimming spots, camping areas, 4WD tracks off the sealed road, wildlife hotspots, spiritual locations, indigenous representation, viewing platforms, dramatic landscapes for photography enthusiasts
- Broad accessibility from the main road
- Availability of remote areas for those wanting to experience a bit more isolation
Litchfield Camping
Camping is a popular way to experience Litchfield National Park. The park has several campgrounds, including Wangi Falls, Florence Falls, Central Valley, Walker Creek, Sandy Creek and Surprise Creek falls campgrounds. These campgrounds vary in amenities on site from very basic to those that have flushing toilets, hot showers, and barbeque areas. There are also several private campgrounds located near the park, offering additional options for those who prefer a bit more ‘civilasation’ mixed in. Remember thought that remote camping is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the park, with the sounds of the wildlife and the rushing waterfalls lulling you to sleep each night.
Exploring Litchfield
For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, there are plenty of other ways to explore the park. You can take a scenic drive along the park’s main road, stopping off at the various lookout points along the way. Or, you can join our guided tour from Darwin. These will take you to all the park’s suitable highlights and give you a deeper insight into the area’s history and culture. There are plenty of options for tours from Darwin, ranging from half-day excursions to multi-day adventures.
Litchfield Walks
One of the best ways to explore Litchfield National Park is on foot. There are several walking trails throughout the park, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. The Tabletop Track, for example, is a 39-kilometre circuit that takes you through the heart of the park. This walk offers stunning views and a chance to see some of the park’s more remote areas. Alternatively, the shorter Greenant Creek Walk takes you to a beautiful swimming hole. Here you can cool off and relax in the shade of the surrounding forest. Whatever your level of fitness, there’s a walking trail in Litchfield National Park that’s perfect for you.
So, when will you visit Litchfield National Park?
Litchfield National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to the Northern Territory. Its stunning waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and rich history make it an ideal place to explore.
Whether you’re a nature lover or history buff there is plenty to appreciate. With many of camping options and tours from Darwin, there are also plenty of ways to experience the waterfall paradise of Litchfield.
Unfortunately, no amount of pictures, descriptions and videos will capture the essence of the park. This is something that needs to be felt. You need to be here.