- Howard Springs Nature Park
The best camping in Howard Springs Nature Park, NT
Swap crocodile-watching for turtle sightings at this Darwin nature park.
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Howard Springs Nature Park
Mambo Lodge
Mambo Lodge
100%
(20)
1.1km from Howard Springs Nature Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Small Hobby farm. Camping in serene surroundings amongst 350 mango trees with water and electricity connections for up to 4 x Caravans to maintain privacy. On site toilets and dump point. Close to all the tourist attractions Darwin has to offer. Access to splash pool.
Pets by negotiation.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$44
/ night
Howard Springs Haven
Howard Springs Haven
100%
(137)
3.8km from Howard Springs Nature Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Enjoy our tropical, secluded oasis and wake up to the sounds of native bird life each morning. As seen on The Feel Good Family season 4 ep. 102 and season 8 ep. 242.
Conveniently located, we're a 30 minute drive from Darwin CBD , 15 minutes from two major shopping centres, 1 hour from Litchfield National Park , 1.5 hours from Kakadu National Park, 20 minutes from the public dump point, and only 5 minutes from the local IGA, chemist and post office, and the family friendly Howard Springs Nature Reserve and excellent pine forest mountain bike trails.
We have only two sites, to give you great privacy and space. The sites are level and grassed, with dedicated water and power access. You are welcome to share our refreshing plunge pool.
Wander the yard to enjoy the gardens or spot small lizards and frogs, pick fresh herbs, tropical flowers. We have fantastic recycling and compost facilities, in a small effort to reduce our collective impact on the environment.
Kids will love having plenty of space to run, ride and explore. There are small lizards and frogs to be hunted, a kids cubby and kitchen, sandpit, swings and a climbing frame (all to be used at your own risk).
You will need to be fully self-contained with your own camping toilet/shower.
No pets please.
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Water hookup
from
AU$49
/ night
Camp Calm
Camp Calm
100%
(11)
4km from Howard Springs Nature Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Quiet and secure acreage 20 mins from Darwin with limited campsites. Access to lovely large pool and entertaining area. Access to power and water (own amenities preferred).
Our property is a spacious and private place to relax, kick back and sit by the pool and watch the sunset through the pandanas trees.
We have one friendly dog that loves a pat! No pets preferred but open to small, quiet, friendly dog.
We are also rainbow friendly
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
AU$45
/ night
Under the Mangoes 🥭
Under the Mangoes 🥭
93%
(35)
4.4km from Howard Springs Nature Park · 4 sites · RVs
Beautiful peaceful 5 acres of bliss among mango trees.
Campers have access to two under-cover communal area with BBQ, seating area with fridge, bathroom, toilet and washing machine.
Wake up to the sound of singing birds Among mango trees.
Th property is located 5 mins from Howard Springs nature park, 25 mins to Darwin city, 30 mins to the lovely Gunpoint Beach.
Please note it will be the dryseason, so grass will not be as green as the wet season.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
AU$56
/ night
Holtze Corner Camp
Holtze Corner Camp
95%
(19)
4.5km from Howard Springs Nature Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to "Wallaby Corner Camp" – a serene campsite nestled at the corner of Wallaby Road, where tranquillity meets nature. Our haven is distinguished by its quiet ambiance, surrounded by the beauty of lush greenery ( wet season) . As you enter, you'll be greeted by the gentle presence of our two friendly dogs, adding warmth to your stay.
Immerse yourself in the sounds of nature, as "Wallaby Corner Camp” sits at the end of the road, ensuring a peaceful escape. The charm of the location is complemented by the convenience of being near a shopping centre and the city, offering the perfect balance between seclusion and accessibility.
Whether you're seeking a quiet getaway or an adventure in nature, our campsite is your haven. Experience the essence of Wallaby Corners Campsite – where nature whispers and tranquillity beckons.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$43
/ night
Camp Wallaby
Camp Wallaby
95%
(66)
5km from Howard Springs Nature Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Camp Wallaby is set on 10 acres, part natural bush, part open paddock. Quiet secure area on a dead end road. Close to amenities including a large shopping centre 3 minutes away and Bunnings down the road and 20 minutes to the city centre. Must be self contained as no toilet or shower facilities however we can supply water and plenty of firewood.
Check in by 6pm. If after 6pm please advise
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$43
/ night
Relax on Bastin
Relax on Bastin
96%
(38)
5.7km from Howard Springs Nature Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Relax on Bastin is situated on a quiet no-through road with Howard Springs and Coolalinga shopping centres only 5 minutes drive and Darwin city only 30 minutes.
The property has ample level space and shaded sites for tent, camper or caravan parking. There are fruit trees and seasonal tropical plants including bananas, pawpaw, pineapple and passionfruit. There is also a seasonal herb and veggie garden with chilli, basil and mint.
Power and hot water are available from the ablution block with a toilet, shower and a washing machine along with a covered communal area including a gas BBQ, fire pits and BBQ plate for campfire cooking.
A short 5-minute drive from shopping centres in Coolalinga and 10 minutes from the Gateway shopping centre in Palmerston. Relax on Bastin is centrally located and it serves as a great base to explore nearby Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks and only half an hour from the Jumping Crocs in the Adelaide River.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$49
/ night
Hillier Hideaway
Hillier Hideaway
98%
(20)
7.4km from Howard Springs Nature Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Hillier Hideaway is a beautiful 5-acre property located 2 minutes from Coolalinga Central.
With 4 well shaded, spacious sites this is the perfect place to pull up and explore Darwin and its surrounds. Sites are not visible from the road and there are no dirt bike tracks or open land adjoining the property, making this a very secluded and safe site.
We can accommodate vans up to 24 feet and have 1 dedicated site for either a camper trailer or tent.
All sites have no power or water, so you will need to be fully self-sufficient. There is however a single shower and toilet for use if needed. There is a dump point at the Caravan Park across from Coolalinga Central that can be used for a small fee.
All sites are well maintained with plenty of shade, please note during the dry season the grassed area will die off.
There will be areas allocated for small campfires and guests must follow fire bans as the restrictions come up.
There are wild peacocks that come in at dawn and dusk to get their daily feed, guests are welcome to come watch, Burdekin ducks and possums at night.
Pets are allowed however dogs must remain on a lead as there is allot of wildlife that call the property home.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
AU$46
/ night
Paperbark Camp
Paperbark Camp
100%
(12)
7.6km from Howard Springs Nature Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Escape to a secluded campsite located on 25 acres of pristine NT bushland, just a short 10-minute drive from Palmerston. Our sites are equipped with power and fresh water, and features a covered area for meals, games and relaxation. As you sleep, listen to the tranquil sounds of the creek, just 30m from the camping area, and wake up ready to embark on your Litchfield National Park adventure, located conveniently nearby.
This unique camping experience offers the privacy you desire, with only three campsites available. The creek, which flows from December to May, provides the perfect backdrop for your stay. Spot native wildlife such as wallabies, magpie, geese, and maybe even a crocodile during the wet season. Our property also features tropical gardens for you to explore and enjoy.
Located in Virginia, just a 30-minute drive from Darwin CBD, our camp is the ideal base for exploring nearby attractions such as Litchfield National Park (40 minutes) and Berry Springs (20 minutes). You can even venture further afield to Kakadu and Arnhem Land. And with the Virginia Tavern just 500m away and Coolalinga Shops only a 2-minute drive, you can still enjoy the beauty of the bush while having access to modern conveniences.
Please note, the sites do not have a toilet so you MUST have your own camp toilet and take all waste with you when you leave.
Campfires are permitted when local fire restrictions are not in place.
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Water hookup
from
AU$61
/ night
Pine Way Van Stays
Pine Way Van Stays
91%
(11)
9.8km from Howard Springs Nature Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
5 Acres of peaceful rural living, with Pool, water and power. You can enjoy the property or explore around the Lagoon. Close to the National Parks and only 30 mins to Darwin city. Ten minutes to Palmerston hospital and 10 mins to Gateway Shopping Centre. Wonderful and peaceful part of our world.
You have ample room to park up and enjoy the undercover area with washing machine and dryer and has a bathroom with shower sink and toilet. Outside has a big wooden table and chairs for relaxing under the big ass fan.
Take your towels and some drinks over to the newly finished pool area, which is fenced and covered with a big sail, to keep out a bit of sun so it's great for kids and adults to enjoy all year round
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$59
/ night
Strangy's Place
Strangy's Place
96%
(57)
9.9km from Howard Springs Nature Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
The weather is warm and the site behind our pool is a nice space to be!
It is lovely to be in a space where you are the only camper! The tropical gardens provide privacy and abundant bird life. The property is safe and secluded in the rural suburb of Virginia.
We are situated in the Darwin Rural area on 5 acres of bush land with tropical gardens and a saltwater swimming pool.
There is a variety of bird life, lizards, frogs, and possums. You can feed our friendly butcher birds and King Fishers on the fly from our verandah or pool area. Sit with the fish pond and chat with the turtle who is very shy!
We have dogs that live at the property so pets on application only. (we do have a dog cage available if required and can pet sit for a day if required )
We have caravan sites for fully self-contained caravans and unpowered sites in the horse yard. There is a single shower / toilet block available at the top of the driveway.
We do have power to some sites, and we would appreciate it if you do not leave air conditioners running while you are off site.
If you are travelling in a group, we can accommodate you in a large open area if your group would like to stay together. Each caravan site has its own fireplace for your use.
Only 5 minutes from Palmerston or Coolalinga, 25 minutes from Darwin CBD.
If you are looking for a local fishing tour, we can hook you up with the locals.
We have many fishing and crabbing locations close by on the Elizabeth River, Middle Arm or around Darwin Harbour.
Local Fred's Pass Food and Craft Markets are open Saturday and Wednesday night music and food
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
AU$31
/ night
Casa Carambola
Casa Carambola
100%
(21)
10km from Howard Springs Nature Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Casa Carambola is five acres in Virginia, about 25km out of Darwin’s CBD owned by a young family. Just 3km from Coolalinga shopping complex, the block is well suited to anyone wanting to explore Darwin and surrounds.
Campers will have access to an ablution block containing a toilet, shower and vanity completely separate to the main house. It can power your van and connect water too.
There are two very friendly dogs, 2 cows, and we are able to host horses and other livestock in a fenced paddock for an additional fee.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$49
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Joanna
3 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful and peaceful site, clean facilities. A bonus were two very friendly resident dogs who came to say hello every time they were out. Strongly recommend when exploring Darwin or surroundings.
See moreJ
Jonas
3 weeks ago
7 m Class B
5 Stars! Friendly Host. Beautiful spot. Awesome pool and lovely dog :)
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T
Tim
November 2025
Tent
Amazing location, beautiful spot with super helpful and friendly hosts. Thanks Melissa, Andrew, Gilbert and Ernie for giving us an amazing experience and hospitality. See you again next time!
See moreP
Penny
November 2025
7 m Class B
we loved our pool camp, Jennifer and Locke we lovely and good help we would come back for sure
See more
s
sue
November 2025
6 m Class A
It was peaceful and comfortable. The host Debbie was sure to check in that everything was okay. Friendly host.
See moreP
Penny
October 2025
7 m Class B
We loved the pool camp was nice and clean peace and quiet ..would like to come again
See more
G
Gijs
October 2025
6 m Class B
We had a wunderfulll time at peters place.. Love to come back again. We had a nice shady place, there are a lot of birds, lot to see if you like nature. Thanks for staying at your place Peter, you were a perfect host.
the dutchies Gijs and Lian
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K
Kevin
October 2025
Tent
Amazing facilities. Very quiet and cozy. I loved camping there!
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chelle
October 2025
6 m Class B
Lovely place nice and quiet beautiful pool would stay again
See more
G
Greg
September 2025
6 m pop-up camper
With pets
Lovely camp site close to Darwin. Emma was very welcoming.
See moreC
Chloe
September 2025
Tent
Great stay! Has everything you need from water, power, fire pit to a communal shower and toilet. Nice and close to Berry Springs.
See more
V
Vieli
September 2025
5 m Class B
Best place ever to stay. Host super nice and very welcoming and nice to talk to. Great human
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B
Bronwyn
September 2025
7 m travel trailer
We loved our stay at Fruity retreat. David and his dad Les were lovely to chat to. The location was perfect and quiet and we felt it was very private. We would highly recommend and wouldn’t hesitate to stay again 😃
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Andrew
September 2025
6 m travel trailer
With kids
Fantastic spot. Close enough to Palmerston and Darwin, but far enough away to enjoy some quiet.
Our kids loved playing in the pool with the hosts kids!!!
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N
Neil
September 2025
4 m Class B
I wish we could have stayed longer. Pete was an amazing host and the property was really nice and not too far from Darwin.
The bathroom and shower were beyond all expectations and I don't have a single complaint.
If I'm ever in Darwin again, I know where I'll be staying!
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J
Jacqui
September 2025
9 m travel trailer
Close to local shops and a short easy drive in to Darwin CBD. The hosts allowed you to choose your site rather than place you near other Hipcampers.
See moreN
Norelene
September 2025
9 m travel trailer
With kids
Quiet, safe camping. Good access for Darwin and surrounds. Friendly hosts. Would definitely recommend. Also the honey was very good.
Thanks for a great stay guys.
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Charlene and Steve
September 2025
5 m car
This was a great stay..it was by chance we found it advertising for a space to fix our car.. Jennifer could not have done enough for us arranging our stay..we ran into some trouble needing a lift to get parts and Lochy was a great help driving us around to where we needed to go… things you need to know - it is peaceful and away from traffic noise.. there are chooks that say hello each day… the pool was loverly and refreshing and the bathroom was clean and good.. it is a bush setting and although I get eaten by midges and mossies.. I lite the coils early and never had an issue… please clean up after yourselves after you use the bathroom… it is not the hosts job to clean up after every use … thank you Jennifer and Lochy we loved staying at Strangys 🌻
See moreN
Neil
September 2025
5 m car
Beautiful campsite and Peter was a great host.
A lot of time, love and effort has gone into creating a small nature haven in the suburbs of Darwin, with lots of native trees and the wildlife that they attract.
Peter was very friendly and gave us lots of advice on what to do, where to eat and drink etc.
I'd highly recommend staying here if looking to camp in the Darwin area
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M
Martin
September 2025
7 m travel trailer
We had a warm welcome on arrival. The sites are well shaded from the NT sun, plenty of space and very tranquil setting. The hosts were wonderful and very helpful. They have good knowledge of the area and gave us great ideas and places to see to fill in our days. We received clear instructions and prompt responses. They are the best we have come across in our travels around Australia.
See moreThe best camping in Howard Springs Nature Park, NT guide
Overview
About
Crocodiles might hog the limelight in the Northern Territory capital, but it’s a different reptile getting all the attention at Howard Springs Nature Park. Just a half-hour drive from Darwin, this family-friendly park is known for its large population of long- and short-neck turtles. Wildlife-watching tops the list of things to do, and you might also spot file snakes, barramundi, Mertens’ Water Monitors, and various bird species as you explore the monsoon forest trails, paddle in the rockpools, or take a swim beneath the waterfall. There’s no camping in the park, but you’ll find plenty of Hipcamps, holiday parks, and caravan parks nearby.
When to go
Howard Springs welcomes bushwalkers and wildlife watchers all year-round, but it’s most popular in the dry season (May through September) when the pool is open and ranger-led events take place. If you do visit in the wet season (November through April), keep an eye on the weather conditions and be aware that the trails and pool may be closed for safety reasons.
Know before you go
- Howard Springs Nature Park is located 30 kilometres east of Darwin or about a 25-minute drive along the Stuart Highway.
- There’s no admission fee to visit the park.
- Facilities at Howard Springs include restrooms, picnic and barbecue areas, a playground, free parking, and a ranger station.
- There are accessible restrooms and picnic areas at Howard Springs Nature Park.
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