Destinations > Arnhem Land

If you need a little more comfort than the campsite can provide, there are four beach huts for hire. They overlook the entrance to Port Essington and are right near the beach. They have power, gas stove and a fridge. Cooking utensils and linen are also provided. There are outside toilets and showers - some people moor their boats from the beach outside the huts.

Just near the huts is Smith Point, which marks the entrance to Port Essington. The point is a low rocky cliff and there is a monument that was built here at the time of the original settlement. It has recently been restored to its original state. Smith Point is a great spot to fish from or to watch the sunset. One evening there were six 4WDs parked at the monument. This turned into informal sundowners as we watched the sun set into the Arafura Sea.

It is a privilege to be allowed to go to Garig Gunak Barlu. Permits are usually only issued for seven days, which is only just long enough. If you book ahead you could be one of the people lucky enough to experience a very special part of Australia. You have to make your own fun but in such a wild, remote and beautiful place there will always be surprises.

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Getting There
Garig Gunak Barlu National Park is located 570km by road from Darwin, in Arnhem Land. Formerly known as Gurig National Park and the Coburg Marine Park, Garig Gunak Barlu has combined these two remarkable features of Arnhem Land. The drive to the park is via an unsealed, 4WD only road. There are a couple of river crossings, most notable being Cahills Crossing over the East Alligator River. Timing of tides is crucial for this crossing, as a high tide can render the river impassable for a number of hours.

Access is restricted to 20 vehicles at a time, and passes are generally only granted for a seven day period. Seven day permits cost $232.10 for seven days, and cover camping and transit costs. Permits are available by applying in writing to The Permit Officer, PO Box 496, Palmerston NT, 0831.

The best time to visit is between May and September, but seasonal road closures may vary these times, so check with the Ranger before heading out.

Staying There
There are a few dedicated camping areas within the park boundary, including sites that have been set aside for generator camping away from the bulk of the unpowered sites.

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