Located within the stunning Judbarra/Gregory National Park, Gumil Campground offers a remote yet rewarding base for exploring one of the Northern Territory’s most spectacular regions. Recently upgraded with new facilities and scenic lookouts, it’s the perfect spot for travellers seeking a quieter camping experience with sweeping views of the escarpment. While it requires a 4WD to reach, those who make the journey are well rewarded with the park’s raw beauty, cultural significance, and endless opportunities for adventure.
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A Gateway to Adventure
Gumil Campground is not just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a home base for exploring various recreational opportunities within Judbarra/Gregory National Park. Accessible by 4WD, the campground is ideal for those looking to cast a line at the park’s fishing spots or hike its rugged driving trails.
Located a few hours west of Katherine and only 27km east of the Victoria River Roadhouse, Gumil Campground is conveniently situated for a weekend escape or an extended stay in the great outdoors.
Why Choose Gumil at Judbarra?
The campground features two scenic lookout points that offer picture-perfect views of Judbarra/Gregory National Park. Whether you’re an early riser catching the sunrise or settling in for a sunset, these vantage points are perfect for capturing the park’s natural beauty.
Judbarra / Gregory National Park puts you right in the heart of the park’s rugged beauty. Its remote location offers privacy and a true bush camping experience, while the upgraded facilities and scenic lookouts make it comfortable and convenient. From here, you can easily explore nearby escarpments, hiking trails, and cultural sites, making it the perfect starting point for an immersive Northern Territory adventure.
What’s New at Gumil Campground?
Gumil Campground ha undergone a major $1 million redevelopment, completed in July 2024, transforming it into a more comfortable and accessible base for visitors.
New amenities include:
- 16 unpowered campsites
- New amenities block
- Drop toilets
- Wood-fired BBQs
- Two scenic lookout points with escarpment views
- Picnic areas in natural bush setting
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A Celebration of Culture and Collaboration
The reopening of Gumil Campground was marked by a special celebration, including traditional Wardaman dancers who performed at the official ceremony.
The Territory Labor Government, in partnership with Traditional Owners, has worked to protect the unique landscape through joint management, ensuring the park’s cultural significance is preserved for generations to come.
Parks and Rangers Minister Selena Uibo highlighted the importance of these improvements, noting that Judbarra/Gregory National Park attracted nearly 50,000 visitors last year.
“We know how much Territorians and visitors love to spend time outdoors – that is why we have invested in improving the Gumil Campground,” she said.
How to Get to Gumil Campground
Reaching this remote spot is part of the adventure. Here’s how to get there:
From Katherine:
- Start your journey from Katherine. Head west on the Victoria Highway (National Route 1) for approximately 320km.
- Continue driving until you reach the turn-off to the Victoria River Roadhouse, a great spot to stop for a break or fuel up.
- From the Victoria River Roadhouse, continue east for 27km on the Victoria Highway.
- Look for signs directing you to Gumil Campground. The campground is accessible via a 4WD track.
- The journey from Katherine should take around 4-5 hours, depending on road conditions.
Camping & Facilities
Gumil Campground is designed for those seeking a more remote and natural camping experience. The 16 unpowered sites are set among the bush, giving campers plenty of space and privacy. While there are no powered sites, the campground provides basic facilities to make your stay comfortable.
Key facilities include:
- Amenities block with showers and washbasins
- Drop toilets for convenience
- Wood-fired BBQs for cooking under the stars
- Picnic areas nestled in the natural surroundings
Campers need to be self-sufficient, bringing their own drinking water and supplies, as there are no shops or potable water sources on-site. Bookings are required to secure a campsite, and visitors must also have the appropriate park permits.
Tips for Visitors
Visiting Gumil Campground requires a bit of planning, but the rewards are well worth it.
The campground’s remote location and rugged terrain mean it’s essential to come prepared. Make sure your vehicle is suitable for steep, winding 4WD tracks, and plan your route carefully before heading out.
Here are some key tips to make the most of your stay:
Bring sufficient supplies: Water, fuel, food, and camping essentials are all your responsibility. There are no stores nearby.
Pack appropriately: Insect repellent, sun protection, sturdy footwear, and a first-aid kit are highly recommended. Our favourite supplier for outdoor gear is Anaconda.
Timing matters: The dry season (May–October) is the best time to visit. Roads may be inaccessible or dangerous during the wet season.
Respect cultural sites: Judbarra/Gregory National Park is rich in Indigenous heritage. Avoid disturbing rock art and follow all park rules.
Stay safe: Watch for wildlife, including crocodiles in waterways, and drive cautiously on unsealed tracks.
Plan for connectivity: Mobile reception is limited; consider offline maps or a GPS device.
Things To Do in Judbarra
Gumil Campground is a perfect base for exploring the natural wonders of Judbarra/Gregory National Park and the surrounding region. Here are some nearby activities and attractions to consider during your visit:
Fishing Spots:
- Victoria River: Known for its excellent barramundi fishing, the Victoria River is just a short drive from the campground. Anglers often reel in their biggest catches during the early morning or late afternoon.
- East Baines River: Another popular spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering a serene environment to cast a line and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Hiking Trails:
- Escarpment Walk: For those who love hiking, the Escarpment Walk offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This moderate hike takes you along the rugged cliffs.
- Joe Creek Picnic Area: This area features a short but steep walk with panoramic views of the park’s dramatic rock formations and ancient Aboriginal rock art.
Cultural Experiences:
- Wardaman Rock Art Sites: Explore the ancient rock art sites scattered throughout the park, showcasing the rich cultural history of the Wardaman people. These sites are accessible via guided tours or self-guided walks.
Learn all of the things to do in Judbarra in our complete guide.
Ready for an overnight adventure in Judbarra/Gregory National Park? Pack your gear and head to Gumil Campground – where nature and culture meet in the heart of the Northern Territory.
*Cover image by @woopi4x4
Want to explore more destinations in Judbarra National Park? As always, you can get inspiration for other National Parks & Destinations to visit by following @northerhq or get your Judbarra National Park daily fix by visiting @judbarranationalpark on Instagram or visiting the park’s Facebook page!
Heading to the NT? Here’s What You Need to Get Started
Travel Insurance
Whether you’re from Australia or across the globe, it’s a great idea to get insurance to cover unexpected accidents or medical emergencies. Cover More is our favourite travel insurance provider to give us the peace of mind while heading to the outback.
Flights
For the best deals on flights, we recommend using Trip.com. It’s super easy to compare prices across different airlines and booking sites. I always find great options for my trips, and it saves me so much time and money!
Hotels
We always recommend using Booking.com for hotels. They have a variety of accommodation options and great filters to help you find the perfect place for your trip to the NT. With amazing deals, a great loyalty program, and the largest selection of hotels and rentals, it’s our favourite place to book rooms.
Tours
Tours, either multi-day, half-day, or private excursions, are a great way to experience the NT. Viator has a great selection of activities to help you travel the Territory and learn from locals.
Car Rental
If you're looking to rent a car to explore the Territory on your own, we suggest checking out Budget. It’s so easy to compare prices and find the best option from their huge selection of cars. Or try Rentalcars.com to see cars from all rental companies in the NT.
National Parks Pass
If you live outside the NT and plan on visiting national parks, you'll need a Parks pass. Choose from a day pass, a 2-week pass, 12-month pass, or family pass at NT.gov.au. If you're an NT resident be sure you bring your NT driver licence or proof of residency. Note: Park Passes are not accepted at Kakadu or Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks. Purchase those from Parks Australia.
Sim Card
If you're travelling and need a reliable connection, We'd recommend getting an eSIM from Airalo. Choose from data only or cellular connection. It’s super convenient and helps you stay connected without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards or paying exorbitant fees to your wireless provider.
