Keep River National Park

Nestled in the Australian Outback near the border of the Northern Territory and Western Australia, 468 km west of Katherine, is the small but incredible Keep River National Park. This is one park that you have to call ahead of your visit to find out what the access road conditions are since, between November and April, the roads are sometimes flooded. Some say that the best time of year to visit the park is May to August when the temperatures and weather is better. However, there are those that say visiting the park during the rainy season is wondrous.

The wetlands are alive and teeming with life during those months and the woodlands turn to a lush green. Since most visitors prefer to visits during the drier months, the quiet campgrounds are a bonus.

For a small park, just over 700 square km, there is a plethora of things to do and see in Keep River National Park. The park has it all: dramatic landscapes and incredible rock formations, aboriginal cultural sites, rock art, a wide range of wildlife, and incredible habitats. The walks, the views, the wildlife and the aboriginal heritage combine to make this a little park that packs an amazing punch and creates awe filled memories.

The two campgrounds in Keep River National Park, Jarnem and Gurrandalng, give you several walk options with, in my opinion the Jarnem 4 hour walk is the best option. Jarnem has three walk options: a 2 hour walk to the lookout and back, a 2 hour walk to the art sites and back, and a walk that encompasses the complete loop. Gurrandalng, on the other hand has a 2 hour that follows the Keep River bed to an old wet season shelter site of the Miniwoong people and offers up absolutely stunning views.

In addition, there is the Ginger’s Hill Walk, the Jinumum Walk, and the Nganalam Walk to keep your interest piqued and take you to aboriginal heritage sites. Make sure to take lots of water with you although there is some drinking water available in the park and walk in the cool of the day. It’s important that you don’t leave your trash behind, pack it out.

Remember that, although your pet is a member of the family, pets are not allowed in Keep River National Park. So leave them in the safekeeping of a kennel or home. Following the park’s rules will ensure that you don’t leave an indelible footprint on this jewel.

The Australian Outback is a world apart from anything else you may have experienced. Once you get a taste of the Outback, you’ll be left wanting more!