The Northern Territory is where nature lovers go to be in nature and reconnect with all the gifts that Mother Nature gave us. The NT is filled with beautiful camping destinations. It is more than a tourist destination; it’s simply a nature lover’s paradise. If you’re camping solo, especiall as a solo female traveller looking for adventure, we highly recommend exploring this remarkable part of Australia.
Planning a Northern Territory Solo female camping trip? We’ve got you covered!
Want to know all about planning your trip to the NT? Scroll to the bottom of the post to see which site locals use to book hotels, where trusted travelers book tours, and how to find the best flight deals. Or Click Here to be taken there now.
Is it safe to explore the Northern Territory as a female solo traveller?
The short answer is: yes (but you will need to take precautions)!
You will have to do some planning and take specific measures to make your experience more enjoyable. A Northern Territory camping trip is worth the effort!
You have several options when exploring this wondrous place. You can join group tours and journey with like-minded people and even make a friend. Or you can go alone.
Whether you prefer exploring off-the-beaten path or touristy areas, you can find great places in the Northern Territory to suit your explorative needs.
We have written this blog for travellers who enjoy camping solo.
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Planning for Your Northern Territory Solo Camping Adventure
Where Are You Going?
You need to know several things before your Northern Territory camping trip. Firstly, where are you going?
Are you visiting one of the national parks? Are you heading to the gorgeous but harsh outback? Or are you staying closer to some of the NT’s amazing cities?
If you are a first-time solo camper, we recommend researching as much as possible about the area you’ll visit.
Below, we recommend a few of our favourite spots for solo camping and have also included tips on the best times of year for Northern Territory camping, safety tips for solo female campers, National Park rules and guidelines, and what to do in an emergency.
Not sure where you should camp? Check out our guides to help you decide where to explore.
Top 3 Parks for Solo Camping
Litchfield National Park – Just 90 minutes from Darwin, Litchfield is a solo camper’s dream. Easy access, year-round swimming spots like Florence Falls and Buley Rockhole, and well-marked campgrounds make it perfect for first-timers. Plus, there’s reception in some areas, so you can stay connected if needed.
Katherine & Nitmiluk National Park – For a slightly more adventurous trip, Katherine offers peaceful bush camps and stunning gorge scenery. Nitmiluk Gorge is ideal for solo paddling or guided hikes with options to join small tours if you’re keen for company.
East MacDonnell Ranges – Quieter than their western counterpart, the East Macs offer solitude and raw beauty. Spots like Trephina Gorge have basic facilities, hiking trails, and fewer crowds, making it a peaceful yet accessible option for those seeking a remote solo escape.
Northern Territory Camping - Wet or Dry Season?
Wet Season
During the wet season, from November to April, the NT experiences tropical cyclones, monsoonal rains and thunderstorms which light up the skies in the afternoons, giving you a light show like no other. If you are on a budget, this might be the time to explore as accommodation is cheaper.
This time of the year is ideal as the waterfalls will be in complete pump. One of the more notable places to explore is Litchfield National Park.
The humidity is high during this time of the year, so be prepared for the heat. The locals believe this to be the best time to explore as the land comes alive and the sights change beautifully.
Note – some areas of the Top End may be closed due to flooding. Make sure you check the road conditions before exploring.
Dry Season
During the dry season, from May to October, the Northern Territory is bursting with activity. Solo travellers, groups or families, you are likely to meet many people on your trip. If this is different from your intention, then there might be better times to explore.
This is when the famous Top End sunsets are at their best. It is a photographer’s dream to explore and capture the NT landscape at this time of the year.
With temperatures ranging from 21 Celsius to 32 Celsius, this is ideal as these are considered cooler months. You can explore further before the sun gets too hot and seek shelter where you can.
If you are keen on festivals, this is the time to explore, as the famous Darwin Festival and other festivals will be in full swing.
If you’re heading into the red centre, like visiting Uluru, the great thing is the weather is pretty consistent. The bad thing? It’s always pretty hot.
Tip: Always check the weather!
Weather conditions change drastically, regardless of whether it is the wet or dry season. To know the correct type of gear, you will need to check the temperatures day and night.
Pack accordingly for the specific weather you’ll be camping in. It is always best to prepare for all scenarios.
Checking the weather also helps to know the daylight hours you have. It is best to leave your campsite early to maximise your daylight hours. It is safer to set up or take down your tent during daylight, especially in undesignated camping locations.
Arriving early at your campsite ensures you can quickly check your perimeter and get accustomed to the area before nightfall.
Packing List for Camping in the NT
- A current and detailed map of the area.
- At least 2 litres of water per day. Remember that most water in the national parks is not drinkable.
- Enough food for about two days, including snacks. Be sure to pack a way to collect your trash before you leave it in rubbish bins, as littering is not allowed.
- A compass in case you need to know where you are.
- Matches and lighter (get firewood in designated areas only)
- Sunscreen!
- Medical kit with your usual medicines and a fully equipped emergency kit.
- Clothes: two changes of clothes, one for heat, one for the cold
- A big torch and a small headlamp too.
- A hand shovel for bathroom needs.
- A radio to know what is happening in the area.
- A satellite radio or phone.
- A whistle for emergencies.
- A personal locator beacon if you are going to remote areas.
Shop more essentials at our favourite outdoor retailer, Anaconda.
Best Practices for Camping Solo in the NT as a Female
Is the Northern Territory safe for solo female travellers? Yes, but you will need to take precautions.
Here are our Northern Territory camping safety tips:
- Share your itinerary and plans with a trusted friend or relative. Stay in contact by updating people whenever you receive a signal and providing them with detailed plans of your trip, including how long you plan to be out of signal.
- Do not share your plans or location online or with people you don’t know.
- Set pre-arranged times when you can check in with someone via a call or text.
- Sleep with your keys; ensure they are easily accessible, so you can drive off if necessary.
- If you are camping on the ground, put an extra pair of shoes outside your tent and give the impression there is more than one person in the tent.
- If you are in a vehicle, lock the doors, cover your windows, and be as lowkey as you can after dark.
- Camp in designated camping areas and avoid unmarked campsites.
- Park close to another vehicle or near the camp host.
- Never leave your drink unattended. If you meet a group, remember to never leave your drink unattended.
- If you choose to drink alcohol, drink less than you usually do and be cautious of taking drinks made by others.
- Keep your phone number private.
- If people get rowdy, ask for help from the camp host as other camping spots have them.
What to Do in an Emergency
Upon entering the national park, write down the ranger station phone number or ask where the EGCs are located.
Emergency numbers:
- For life-threatening emergencies, call 000.
- In floods, storms and cyclones, for 24-hour assistance, call 132500.
- For general northern region enquiries, call 0889223630.
- For general southern region enquiries, call 08 8951 9300.
- For police attendance in an emergency, call 000.
- For police assistance, call 131 444.
- For other police contacts, specialist units or remote station contact details, go to the NT Police, Fire and Emergency Services website.
Know the Rules & Guidelines
As always, please be respectful of the traditional landowners and be aware of any and all rules.
You can check the rules for exploring each of the national parks and destinations in the links below:
Ready For a Solo Camping Adventure?
Pack your bags, let’s go!
You’ve got your packing essentials, safety tips, and you know the rules and regulations. Now it’s time to plan your next Northern Territory camping getaway. Whether you’re heading to the tropical Top End or the rugged beauty of the Red Centre, the Northern Territory is a great place to explore, why not enjoy it all on your own?
Are you a traveller who has explored the NT by camping solo? Comment below if you have anything to add!
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Cover photo by @wheres.poppy on IG
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.
