Elsey National Park
Description
The Roper River begins within the boundaries of the 13,840 hectare Elsey National Park. Numerous springs within the park feed the Roper River which, in the Dry Season from April to September, flows gently through large waterholes and then tumbles over rocks and tufa dams. During the Wet Season, flood waters cause the river to swell on its journey to the sea.
The township of Mataranka is South east of Katherine, 110 kilometres along the Stuart Highway. Located on the Roper River are the Mataranka Thermal Pools and Elsey National Park. The Park is 8 km away from Mataranka. The Roper River is popular for fishing and canoeing, however swimming is not possible due to the presence of saltwater crocodiles (don’t mess with these crocs!).
Things to see and do:
Picnic areas complete with tables, wood barbecues and toilet facilities are provided at Bitter Springs, 12 Mile Yards, Mulurark and 4 Mile.
A boat ramp and canoe launching area is provided at the 12 Mile Yards and Mataranka Homestead. Outboard motor sizes are limited to a maximum of 15hp.
An established campground, suitable for tents and caravans, is located at the 12 Mile Yards. The campground offers grassed areas, hot water, ablution facilities but NOT powered sites. Generators are not permitted.
Fishing is a popular pastime for many visitors. Traps, nets and spears are prohibited and barramundi fishing regulations apply within the Park.
A 1.5km Botanical Walk is located along John Hauser Drive access road. There is also a 4km walk to Mataranka Falls that starts at the 12 Mile Yards. Various day use areas are connected by short riverside walks. A short loop walk is also available at Bitter Springs.
Useful Information
The most comfortable months to visit the Park are from May to September. The wet season causes the Roper River to flood, which may restrict access to some facilities in the park.
Please Remember
Avoid using soaps and detergent in or near the waterways.
Camp only in designated areas, and collect firewood before arriving at your campsite.
Generators are not permitted in this park.
Observe all fishing regulations.
Pets are not permitted in this Park.
Nets, traps and firearms are not permitted.
For current information on Park access, please refer to the website or else call the number provided.
Contact
- Phone: 08 8975 4560
- Website: http://www.parksandwildlife.nt.gov.au/parks/find/elsey#.VG045b6Za-8
- Cost: Free
- Booking not required
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Mataranka Hot Springs, Elsey National Park, Mataranka NT Mataranka Thermal Pool and Rainbow Springs, Mataranka, Northern Territory, Australia
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