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More than a quarter of a million
visitors descend on Litchfield National
Park each year, journeying to view
the monsoon rainforest,
perennial
spring—fed streams and waterfalls,
magnetic termite mounds, the
weathered shaped sandstone outcrops
as well as historic ruins.
Located just 129 kilometres from
Darwin and 268 kilometres from
Katherine, this absolutely fascinating
143 sq km area of land was
proclaimed a National Park in 1986.
Originally it was the home of the
Aboriginal Wagait people. The
Finniss exploration was the first
European connection within the area
and a member of that expedition,
Frederick Henry Litchfield, has had
his name etched into the annals of
Northern Territory history.
Its history has been chequered. For
some 75 years until mid 20th century
the area was the centre of tin and
copper mining activity. Then it fell under
a pastoral lease until it became a
designated National Park.
Litchfield National Park has its
major attractions linked by sealed
road although a 4x4 is necessary to
access some of the natural attractions
in the more remote sections of the
Park. It is also possible, during the
Dry Season, to travel by 4x4 down
the Southern Access Track to the Daly
River Road.
When intending to travel on
unsealed roads during the Wet Season
it is always advisable to check on
road conditions. This may be done through the
Tourist Information Centre, the police
or road authorities.
At times, due to water turbulence,
some areas may be difficult to access
During the Wet some waterholes
may be closed.
Camping facilities are located
within Litchfield National
Park including, Wangi Falls, Walker
Creek, Buley Rockhole, Florence Falls,
Surprise Creek and Sandy Creek Falls.
Hotel accommodation and
camping facilities are readily
available at Batchelor which is just
13 kilometres from the Park
entrance, and nearby at Lake
Bennett or Adelaide River.
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