Attractions

Elsey National Park

The serene Roper River begins it's life within the boundaries of the 13,840 hectare National Park. The spring fed Waterhouse and Little Roper Rivers combine to form the Roper which in the "Dry Season" (April - Sept) flows gently through large waterholes and then tumbles over rocks and tuffa dams which divide the river into sections of waterways and braided channels. During the wet season flood waters cause the river to swell and rage on its journey to the sea.

The spring and the associated Thermal Pool sector of the park are a major attraction to visitors. The spring water is rising from underground at 30.5 million litres per day, and at a temperature of 34 degrees celsius is then contained in a relaxing swimming pool surrounded by a paperbark and palm forest.

When To Visit

The most comfortable months to visit the park are from May to September, The wet season causes flooding of the Roper River and restrictions on some activities available in the Park.

Access

The main access road is via the Homestead road, 1.5 kilometres south of the township of Mataranka.

The Roper River sector of the park can be reached by proceeding along John Hauser Drive and the Thermal Pool sector is located at the end of the Homestead road. The access roads may be cut for short periods during the wet season.

What To Do

• Camping: An established campground is located at the 12 Mile Yards and is suitable for tents or caravans. The campground offers grassed areas, hot water, ablution facilities but does not offer powered sites and generators are not permitted. Alternate accommodation and camping facilities are available from commercial establishments in the area.
• Boating/Canoeing: A boat ramp and canoe launching area is provided at the 12 Mile Yards and the Mataranka Homestead. Outboard motor sizes are limited to 15 h.p. maximum.
• Fishing: Fishing is a popular past time for many visitors. Traps, nets and spears are prohibited and barramundi fishing controls apply within the Park.
• Walking: A 1.5 kilometre Botanical circuit walk is available from the John Hauser Drive access road. Also a 4 kilometre (one way) walk to Mataranka Falls starts at the 12 Mile Yards. Various day use areas are connected by short river edge walks.
  

Visitor Facilities

Day use areas complete with picnic furniture, wood barbecues and toilet facilities are available at the 12 Mile Yards, Mulurark and the 4 mile.

Protecting Our Heritage

• All native plants and animals in the park are protected.
• Take care with fire - light fires only in fire places provided.
• Avoid using soaps or detergents in the waterways as they pollute the streams and harm aquatic life.
• Please take all your litter with you and dispose of it properly.
• Pets are not permitted in the park as they pose a threat to native wildlife and can disrupt other visitors.
• Generators are not permitted in the Park as they disrupt other visitors.
  

More Information

Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory
PO Box 344, KATHERINE NT 0851
Ph: (08) 8973 8888
Fax: (08) 8973 8899

Mataranka District Office
Ph: (08) 89754560