Best Free Camping Spots in Northern Territory

The Northern Territory, with its wide-open landscapes, rugged wilderness, and awe-inspiring natural wonders, also happens to be one of Australia’s biggest hubs of wild freedom camping spots. These hidden gems provide the perfect base to immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of the great Australian Outback. 

If you are looking to hire a campervan through the Northern Territory, fasten your seatbelt and prepare for an extraordinary journey as we uncover the best free camping spots in the Northern Territory. Whether you are setting off on your first campervan holiday or you're a seasoned campervan pro just looking for ideas on how to stretch your travel budget, these eight best free camping spots in the Northern Territory are bound to be a great addition to your Northern Territory travel itinerary.

 

Image: Tourism Northern Territory

 

But first, what is free camping 

Free camping (also known as wild camping, freedom camping or boondocking) is the art of setting up camp in designated areas with minimal facilities. These are usually free or sometimes very low cost and ordinarily found in more remote parts of the country or a little way out of the main towns. When there is a small cost, these are usually provided as a donation to the local ‘honesty box’ to maintain the grounds and sites. 

Overall, freedom camping sites like these are a great way to save money on your campervan holiday. Plus, it can be a perfect option for the more adventurous travellers seeking freedom and flexibility while exploring diverse locations without the rigidity of being confined to established campgrounds. Best of all, free camping allows the opportunity to fully embrace the serenity of nature, sleep under a star-filled sky, and wake up to breathtaking vistas right outside your campervan door – the perfect invitation to experience the wild beauty Australia has to offer.

 

Where you can camp for free in Northern Territory

The Northern Territory is home to an abundance of opportunities for free camping. From pristine national parks to secluded Outback outposts, there's something for every type of traveller seeking an authentic van travel experience. However, you can’t just park anywhere when free camping in the NT (unfortunately!). When in doubt, here are a few things to consider when deciding where to camp in your campervan: 

 

• Research campsites ahead of time – Before setting off, take some time to find designated areas to camp along your route (you’re already halfway there with this article!). However, if you’re looking for more inspiration, you can also find free camps with the help of the thl Roadtrip App. Using this app, you can easily search for free camps along the way and save them into your very own road trip itinerary planner. Plus, you can also search attractions, water fill-ups, paid campsites (for when you need them), and more! This app is the ultimate campervan companion. 

 

• Pay attention to and abide by any signs – Many times, there will be signage to mark a free camp. And if you aren’t meant to camp there – just look out for the NO OVERNIGHT CAMPING signs (can’t miss them!). Regardless of where you find camp for the night, make sure to tidy up after yourself to keep Australia beautiful. 

 

• Stick to well-maintained roads – Due to the wild nature of the Northern Territory, many of the free campsites are found down 4WD roads. As such, if you are looking to hire a campervan, be sure to check the limitations and restrictions of your specific vehicle as well as where it is safe to adventure off-grid.  

 

Top tip: A lot of free camps in the Northern Territory are located within national parks or reserves. Most of these parks and reserves require a Northern Territory parks pass to enter. So be sure to purchase yours ahead of time.

 

Image: Tourism Northern Terriorty 

 

The 8 top free camping spots in NT

Let’s dive into the top eight best places to free camp in the Northern Territory for your upcoming campervan adventure.

 

Merl Campground, Kakadu National Park

Nestled within the breathtaking Kakadu National Park UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies the magnificent Merl Campground. This camping area is a haven for nature lovers, delivering stunning surroundings and access to the ancient Ubirr rock art site and Outback Arnhem Land. Positioned near the East Alligator River, Merl Campground provides the opportunity to watch unique wildlife in their natural habitat (including the crocodiles at the renowned Cahills Crossing!). Here you can immerse yourself in the ancient landscapes, including the majestic Jim Jim Falls, explore the rich indigenous culture at the Ubirr rock art site, and sit back to soak up the wonders of a classic Kakadu sunset. Although this is one of the higher-end of paid freedom camps at around $15 per night, it is also loaded with top-end facilities, including flushing toilets and hot showers (talk about luxury!) 

 

Wangi Falls, Litchfield National Park

Litchfield National Park is renowned for its captivating waterfalls, pristine swimming holes, and lush rainforest – all within an hour's drive from Darwin. Within this tropical paradise lies Wangi Falls, a true jewel that not only captivates with its natural beauty but also offers a wonderful camping area for visitors to stay overnight. After taking a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Wangi Falls, find solace in the shady camping area nearby. This campsite is a low-cost site, and for $6 per person (per night), you will have access to flushing toilets and hot showers. Settle into your campervan for the night with an easy-to-make meal and relax to the lulling burble of the waterfall tumbling over the cliffs nearby. What’s more, after a peaceful night's sleep, you will be in a prime position to explore other Litchfield attractions like the Magnetic Termite Mounds, Buley Rockhole and Sady Creek Falls before the crowds arrive. 

 

Berry Springs Nature Park

If you are looking for great freecamping near Darwin, Berry Springs Nature Park is the perfect spot. Just an hour-and-a-half southeast of the bustle of Darwin, this hidden oasis is a free camping dream. Here you can spend your days diving into the inviting thermal pools, enveloped by tropical vegetation and cascading waterfalls. At the end of the day, you can set up camp at one of the designated camping spots available in the park. With campsite facilities provided, including picnic tables and BBQ areas, you'll have everything you need. If you're visiting from March to April, you will be treated to an extra special display of native wildflowers as they bloom. If you are looking for the full experience of the park, join one of the Ranger-Guided activities to dive even deeper into the local history, flora and fauna. If you're on a road trip from Darwin, this is a great spot to stop on your way to Litchfield National Park.

 

Image: Tourism Northern Territory

 

Prowse Gap Rest Area

For those traversing the iconic Stuart Highway that runs north to south of the state, Prowse Gap Rest Area is an excellent free camping spot to break up the journey and recharge. Located approximately 400 kilometres south of Katherine, this rest area offers plenty of space for campervans as well as basic facilities such as toilets and picnic tables. From Prowse Gap, you will be within easy access to Anzac Hill, Hermannsburg Potters and the Telegraph station – giving you plenty of opportunity to get out and explore before settling in for the evening under the Outback sky. This is the perfect spot to embrace the stillness of the Outback and awaken refreshed before continuing on your epic Australia road trip.

 

Ellery Creek Big Hole

Tucked away within the majestic West MacDonnell Ranges, just over two hours west of Alice Springs, Ellery Creek Big Hole Camping Area is a natural wonder—a picturesque waterhole surrounded by towering red cliffs. What makes this spot even better is the fact that this oasis also offers a free camping area, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking Outback. This is easily accessible for 2WD vehicles and includes access to facilities such as a toilet, shower block, barbeques and picnic tables. 

Ellery Creek is an important sacred site of the Central and Western Arrernte People and the setting of their Honey Ant Dreaming and Fish Dreaming stories. With your campervan as your cozy home base, you'll have the freedom to explore at your own pace, indulge in a night of sleepy stargazing, and soak up the serenity of this enchanting location. Park up your campervan and take full advantage of the local surroundings – take a refreshing dip in the cool waters, explore the scenic walking trails such as the Larapinta Trail, and witness the vibrant colours of the Ochre Pits. 

 

Henbury Meteroites Conservation Reserve

Deep in the heart of the Australian desert lies the extraordinary Henbury Meteorites Conservation Reserve. Located under two hours south of Alice Springs, this reserve is a testament to the immense power and cosmic wonders that shape our planet (literally!). Approximately 4,700 years ago, a meteorite crashed into the Earth at this site, leaving behind a fascinating legacy of 12 craters that can still be explored to this day. Henbury Meteorites Conservation Reserve offers a unique camping experience amidst the remnants of this celestial event. 

While camping under the vast desert sky, take the time to explore the craters. Walking trails guide you through the reserve, allowing you to enjoy a self-guided tour – seeing the impressive size and intricacies of the impact craters up close. This small fee reserve doesn't provide any facilities, so travellers are encouraged to bring their own firewood and water to ensure a comfortable stay.

For a deeper understanding of the meteorite's impact and the science behind it, visit the Museum of Central Australia in Alice Springs. Here, you can see scattered fragments of the meteorite as well as an immersive exhibit of central Australia's natural and cultural heritage, adding an impressive layer of insight to your adventure in the Henbury Meteorites Conservation Reserve.

 

Image: Mark Clinton

 

Book your next Mighty adventure

With these top free camps in the Northern Territory in your camping arsenal, it's time to plan your epic adventure. Ready to rent a travel van and explore the captivating landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and extraordinary attractions that Australia's Northern Territory has to offer? 

Hire a Mighty campervan today so that all that is left to do is pick it up from your local Mighty branch and hit the wide-open road. For more van life tips, how to travel around Australia in a camper and other Northern Territory travel inspiration, check out the Mighty blog.