Bitter Springs at Elsey National Park temporarily closed to public after saltwater croc spotted

The parks authority has warned visitors to a popular national park to stay away from one of its most iconic swimming holes.

A crocodile has allegedly been spotted at Elsey National Park and authorities have closed off a section to the public.

On Friday night, Northern Territory Parks and Wildlife said a saltwater crocodile had been reported dwelling within the Bitter Springs management zone.

In a statement, the agency said “the springs will remain closed until the crocodile is removed and Parks will work to reopen the pools to swimming as soon as possible”.

The waterhole was only opened to the public for the dry season last Friday.

Bitter Springs at Elsey National Park. Photograph: Che Chorley

Located about 120km south east of Katherine, Elsey National Park is a popular hiking and fishing spot, and Bitter Springs permits access to the park’s popular thermal pools.

Last July, the Springs were also temporarily cordoned off after a 2.5m croc was caught taking a dip in the water.