Explore stunning hiking trails of Keep River National Park

Discover the Hidden Treasures of Keep River National Park

Keep River National Park, located near the town of Kununurra in Western Australia, is one of the Northern Territory’s best-kept secrets. Just 468 km from Katherine, this small yet diverse park showcases stunning geological formations and ancient Aboriginal rock art sites, offering a range of walks, bushwalks, and hikes that reveal its unique landscapes.

The park’s sandstone ridges and ‘Bungle Bungle-like’ formations are particularly captivating. The two-kilometre Goorrandalng Walk weaves through these sandstone structures, providing magnificent views throughout. The Jarnem Loop Walk, which can be split into two shorter return walks, is especially stunning in the early morning and late afternoon light.

Keep River National Park features two campsites equipped with wood barbecues and water. Camping fees apply and must be booked online in advance, as there is no phone signal in the park. Visitors can explore Aboriginal lands belonging to the Miriwoong and Gajirrabeng people, with notable sites including Langgerrbi (Nigli Gap) at Jarnem and Ginger’s Hill, which showcase traditional rock art and other cultural elements.

The unsealed road within the park can be corrugated and may become inaccessible due to flooding between November and April. However, the park remains a haven for wildlife, with sandstone habitats hosting species like the Short-eared Rock-wallaby, White-quilled Rockpigeon, and Sandstone Shrike-thrush.

Six diverse walks offer opportunities to explore the park’s natural and cultural wonders. For those with limited time, the most popular walks are Ginger’s Hill and Goorrandalng. The Jarnem Walk, a seven-kilometre journey, provides a breathtaking view of striped sandstone structures reminiscent of the Bungle Bungles in Western Australia.

The best months to visit Keep River National Park are from May to August when temperatures range between 10°C and 35°C. While the weather is warmer and wetter from November to April, the wetlands become spectacular, the woodlands lush, and the campgrounds quieter.

Visitors must obtain a parks pass to enter the Northern Territory. It’s essential to be cautious of saltwater crocodiles in all waterways within the park and to heed all warning signs. Swimming is not recommended.

Camping facilities are available at Goorrandalng, 18 km from the park entrance, and at Jarnem, 32 km from the entrance. These sites include tables, wood-fired barbecues, and composting and pit toilets. Limited drinking water is available at Jarnem and along the road near the Ranger Station turnoff. During peak season (May to September), a campground host site is open to assist visitors.

Want to find the best trails in Keep River National Park for an adventurous hike, casual walk, or a family trip? Trail Hiking Australia has the best trails for walking, hiking, running, and more.