If you’re planning to self-cater, you’ll find everything you need within the park. The Camp Kitchen is well laid out with plenty of space, and the BBQs make it easy to cook up dinner after a day exploring the Top End. We often ended up eating outside under the palms, enjoying the warm NT evenings.

For your morning coffee, Corner Café in Howard Springs is our go-to. It’s a simple, friendly local spot with consistently good coffee, quick service and an easygoing vibe. We’d usually grab a flat white and a breakfast wrap before heading off for the day’s adventures.

When you’re craving a cold drink or a proper meal without heading into the city, Howard Springs Tavern hits the mark. It’s a classic Territory pub with big portions, icy beers and plenty of space both indoors and out. The chicken schnitzel and the NT-style barramundi are reliable favourites, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for families, couples or anyone rolling in after a big day in Litchfield or Kakadu.

If you’re after more variety, the drive into Darwin opens up dozens of options. From waterfront dining on the wharf to food trucks at Mindil Beach during the dry season, it’s easy to make a night of it.

There’s plenty to keep you busy without even leaving the park. We found ourselves drifting between the swimming pool, splash park and playground most afternoons — ideal when the Top End heat kicks in or when you just want a slow day close to home. The kids in particular gravitate straight to the splash park, while adults tend to claim a shady spot by the pool with a book.

When you’re ready to explore, Berry Springs is only a short drive away and is one of our favourite spots in the region. The water is warm and crystal clear, perfect for a lazy swim under the trees. We usually pack a picnic and stay for a couple of hours, especially during the dry season when conditions are ideal.

A little further afield, Litchfield National Park is an essential day trip. Think plunge pools, sandstone plateaus and some of the NT’s best waterfalls. Florence Falls, Wangi Falls and Buley Rockhole are all easy to reach and perfect for cooling off between short walks. If you’ve got a 4WD, the off-road tracks open up even more to explore. 

Back closer to Darwin, you’re an easy drive from the Waterfront Precinct, the Museum and Art Gallery of the NT, the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets and countless coastal lookouts.

The Top End runs on wet and dry seasons rather than traditional summers. The dry (May–October) is the most popular time to visit, with warm days and cooler nights. During the wet, some national park areas may close due to flooding, so it’s worth checking road conditions before heading out.