Explore the cultural and natural wonders of Keep River National Park on the Jenemoom Walk, a moderately challenging (grade 3) 3-kilometer return trail. This 2-hour adventure, suitable for most fitness levels with some bushwalking experience, begins near Jarnem Campground (32 kilometers from the park entrance).
Jenemoom, meaning "shallow gorge" in the Miriwoong language, aptly describes the walk's path. Stroll along the base of a gorge system, where semi-permanent waterholes have sustained Aboriginal inhabitants for generations. Evidence of their presence can be found in living shelters and significant rock art sites at the trail's end.
The initial part of the trail is easy, wide, and sandy, perfect for a gentle introduction. However, as you delve deeper into the gorge, the path narrows, requiring you to navigate around rocks. This adds a touch of adventure to the discovery of the sacred Aboriginal site with its captivating rock paintings.
While the walk is generally enjoyable, be aware that crocodiles can inhabit billabongs in the area.
Camping
Keep River National Park offers two designated camping areas to choose from: Goorrandalng and Jarnem. Goorrandalng provides a closer base camp, situated just 18 kilometers from the park entrance. Jarnem, on the other hand, offers a slightly more remote experience at 32 kilometers in. Whichever you choose, you'll have access to basic amenities like picnic tables, wood-fired barbecues, and composting or pit toilets.
Keep in mind that camping fees apply, so be sure to book your campsite online before arrival to secure your spot. While limited drinking water is available at Jarnem and near the Ranger Station turnoff, it's always wise to bring plenty of your own for the duration of your stay.
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
- Keep River National Park is on the traditional lands of the Miriwoong and Gajirrabeng people.
- This park requires visitors to the NT to have a parks pass.
- There are saltwater crocodiles in all waterways in the Keep River National Park. Do not swim and Be Crocwise at all times.
- Camping is available at Keep River National Park. You must book online and pay a fee to camp.
- A campground host site is open during peak season (May to September).
- Overnight walks are permitted only under prior arrangement with the Ranger staff. A permit is required.
Total distance: 2193 m
Max elevation: 75 m
Min elevation: 53 m
Total climbing: 59 m
Total descent: -59 m
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Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take.
Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.
Getting to the trailhead: Keep River National Park.
Keep River National Park is approximately 468 kilometers from Katherine, Northern Territory. This hidden gem sits right on the border between the Northern Territory and Western Australia. Accessing the park is straightforward; simply follow the Victoria Highway through Timber Creek, Northern Territory. The park entrance itself is conveniently located just 3 kilometers east of the border with Western Australia.
Keep in mind that the roads leading to the park’s main attractions are made of gravel and suitable for 2WD vehicles. However, these roads can be corrugated, so be prepared for a bumpy ride. Additionally, during the wet season between November and April, heavy rains can sometimes cause road closures due to flooding. It’s a good idea to check road conditions before you embark on your adventure.
If you’re planning to enjoy the Jenemoom Walk, your starting point will be Jenemoom Walk Carpark, located conveniently within the park, just 23 kilometers from the entrance.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
Keep River National Park in the Northern Territory is a hidden gem featuring geological wonders and ancient Aboriginal rock art. This small park offers diverse landscapes, including sandstone ridges and formations resembling the Bungle Bungles.
The Goorrandalng Walk, a two-kilometre trail, winds through sandstone and provides stunning views. The Jarnem Loop Walk, which can be split into shorter return walks, is particularly beautiful in the soft light of early morning and late afternoon.
Two campsites with wood barbecues and water are available, but camping fees must be booked online in advance due to the lack of phone signal. The park lies within the traditional lands of the Miriwoong and Gajirrabeng people, and visitors can see rock art at Langgerrbi (Nigli Gap) and Ginger's Hill.
Keep River National Park, 468 km from Katherine, borders Western Australia and showcases Aboriginal sites, spectacular geology, and various habitats. Six diverse walks allow visitors to explore the park's natural and cultural wonders, with Ginger’s Hill and Goorrandalng being the most popular for those with limited time. Sandstone habitats host species like the Short-eared Rock-wallaby, White-quilled Rockpigeon, and Sandstone Shrike-thrush.
The best time to visit is from May to August, with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 35°C. Warmer and wetter months from November to April transform the wetlands and woodlands, offering a quieter camping experience. Visitors to the NT must have a parks pass.
Be cautious of saltwater crocodiles in all waterways and observe all warning signs. Camping facilities at Goorrandalng and Jarnem include tables, wood-fired barbecues, and composting toilets. Drinking water is limited at Jarnem and near the Ranger Station turnoff. A campground host site is open during peak season (May to September).
Looking for more walks in or near Keep River National Park? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.
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