We left Darwin behind, back on to the Stuart Hwy headed towards Litchfield National Park. Wikicamps had informed us that we needed to be into the campground by midday to get a campsite in the NP campground. A quick stop at the termite mounds on the way. There have termite mounds roadside for thousands of kms now, but this formation looks like a cemetery.
We managed to get a site in the NP, but only a couple of others left. They filled up pretty quickly. This NP had toilets and showers, and good pits. Russell got to use the chainsaw to cut some firewood for us and the group of women next door.
The campground was about a 400m walk from the spectacular Florence Falls. 135 steps down. Very popular today (probably every day). The falls are around 15-20m in height. There were quite a few who were climbing the slippery rocks and providing entertainment by jumping. I’m not sure that entertaining is the right word. It was frightening, the loud thump as they hit the water. Fortunately, they all got through unscathed, unlike the fella at Jim Jim falls in Kakadu a couple of weeks ago who broke multiple bones doing the same thing. The guys here were told to leave the Falls by the Rangers later in the day. Apart from the jumpers, it was a relaxing, refreshing way to spend the afternoon in a most spectacular pool. Back to camp for a break, before heading back for another dip. Not as crowded by this stage. We did have a “friend” on the path on the way back. I went into reverse, very quickly as it slithered away. A yellowish snake. Freaks you out a bit.
These falls are fed from natural Springs. There hasn’t been rain for months, although we did have 6 drops while we were in the pool.
Back on the road, heading west when we got to Katherine. We did stop at Adelaide River to visit the Military cemetery. Those killed from WW2 bombing raids in Darwin are buried here, including civilians.
Overnight was at a Roadhouse campground at Victoria River. A really nice spot, even had grass. The Victoria River is quite large, and is surrounded by a magnificent escarpment. So much natural beauty in NT.
Running out of time to more next time. 😀
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