Journey through the captivating Keep River National Park, a hidden gem of the Northern Territory. Explore a landscape sculpted by time, where ancient Aboriginal rock art whispers stories and stunning striped sandstone formations rival the Bungle Bungles.
The 7.5km Jarnem Circuit Walk, rated moderate (grade 4), offers a rewarding adventure for experienced hikers. This loop trail, starting from Jarnem Campground, takes roughly 3 hours to complete. It combines the highlights of the Lookout and Langgerrbi (Nigli Gap) walks, best explored in an anticlockwise direction.
The path descends from the Lookout turnoff, weaving through fragrant eucalypt woodland towards the magnificent Jarnem Escarpment. These striped sandstone wonders, smaller cousins of the Bungle Bungles, provided sustenance and shelter for the Miriwoong people for millennia. Look out for their fascinating rock art at Langgerrbi (Nigli Gap).
This walk immerses you in diverse landscapes. Traverse eucalypt woodlands, discover ancient Aboriginal culture through their rock art, and be captivated by the expansive views of the Keep River. The dramatic rock formations along the Jarnem Escarpment are a definite highlight.
Begin at Jarnem Campground and follow the Jarnem Walk Track. Take a left at the first junction and continue until you reach another junction marking the loop. Turn right here and follow the loop in an anticlockwise direction. Roughly halfway around the loop, enjoy a breathtaking panorama from the lookout before continuing back to the junction. Retrace your steps to complete the loop and return to the campground.
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 4 (Hard) -
Challenging Walks for Experienced Walkers: Grade 4 on the
AWTGS signifies challenging walking tracks. Bushwalking experience is recommended for these tracks, which may be long, rough, and very steep. Directional signage may be limited, requiring a good sense of navigation. These walks are suited for experienced walkers who are comfortable with steeper inclines, rougher terrain, and potentially longer distances.
- 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: 7485 m
Max elevation: 95 m
Min elevation: 43 m
Total climbing: 131 m
Total descent: -131 m
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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 tackle the Jarnem Walk, your starting point will be Jarnem Campground. This campground is located conveniently within the park, just 32 kilometers from the entrance. Here, you can set up camp and prepare for your exciting journey through Keep River National Park.
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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).
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Looking for things to do in Keep River National Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
