Litchfield increases number of campsites to avoid tourist congestion

A dozen new campsites at Surprise Creek Falls in Litchfield have officially opened, taking the total number of sites up to 19. The upgrade aims to ease pressure on other popular spots.

Campsite at Surprise Creek. Picture: Minister for Parks and Rangers

Twelve new campsites Surprise Creek Falls in Litchfield have officially opened to the public, easing demand in the popular Top End national park.

The total number of campsites has now increased to 19.

The sites includes facilities such as a barbecue, fire pit, packed hard stands for vehicles, picnic tables and two pit toilets.

The new campsites have been spaced away from the original sites with a 2.6m track connecting them.

The newly built campsites are generously spaced out to ensure visitors still feel they are in the bush. Picture: Minister for Parks and Rangers

The upgrade to the popular camping destination cost more than $300,000 and aims to give visitors better dispersion around Litchfield National Park.

A popular watering hole at Surprise Creek. Picture: Minister for Parks and Rangers

“Surprise Creek Falls is one of the more isolated campgrounds in Litchfield National Park and is loved by locals for the 4WD access and a series of rock pools,” Parks and Rangers Minister Nicole Manison said.

“Investments like these in our campgrounds and facilities allow for campers to better spread out across our Parks and improve the visitor experience.

“The majority of campgrounds in Litchfield National Park, including Central Valley and Wangi Falls, have been booked close to capacity for the Dry Season.

“There are some spaces available after this weekend for both weekends and weekdays, making it a great time to get out and enjoy our parks during the holidays, before the end of the Dry.”

Bookings are now open, visitors can go to parkbookings.nt.gov.au