UPDATED FEB 2020. It’s the end of Australia week on the blog and I am finishing it off by showcasing a practical travel guide for the Berry Springs Nature Reserve. If you remember back to the blog about the Territory Wildlife Park, you may remember that I mentioned that it is a great idea to pack your swimwear and take a dip in Berry Springs after your day at the park. This is Berry Springs. It is only a 5-minute drive from the Wildlife Park making it the perfect way to end your day of animal watching and walking around in the heat. I hope this guide can help you plan your own visit to enjoy this gorgeous, natural swimming hole.
A Guide To Swimming At The Berry Springs Nature Reserve
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FAQ for swimming at the Berry Springs Nature Reserve
Where is it located?
Berry Springs, about 45 minutes drive from Darwin.
How much does it cost?
Free.
What should you bring with you?
- Swimwear
- Lightweight towel
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle
- Waterproof camera (I use a GoPro and this floaty selfie stick)
- Lunch/snacks
)Who is it suited for?
Good for families, solo, couples, friends – pretty much everyone.
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How to get to the Berry Springs Nature Reserve from Darwin
I recommend renting a car for your trip to Darwin because of how spread out the sights are and the limited public transportation, particularly outside of the city.
To get to the Berry Springs Nature Reserve from Darwin you will drive down the Stuart Highway.
It’s well signed so you will be able to follow the signs for the turnoff. There is free parking on site.
There is currently no public transport option.
What to expect at Berry Springs Nature Reserve
All you need to do once you get there is to pick where you want to swim.
You can choose between the main pool, the lower pool, and the small waterfall area.
They are all fun areas but I like the lower pool which is what you can see pictured below. The water is crystal clear and when you swim around it is very easy to get lost in the tranquility of the place.
There was a rope swing when I was there and some areas for kids to jump in off the edge or from an overhanging branch.
You can also expect to see fish in the water with you, or other wildlife in the area like lizards or birds.
When is the best time to go?
As I have mentioned in some of the other posts, I recommend planning your visit to Darwin in the dry season which runs from April/May to September/October.
Darwin is in the tropics and only has two seasons – the dry and the wet.
During the wet season, many of the tourist attractions are closed due to flooding, especially the swimming holes since crocodiles can travel easily over land in floodwaters.
As far as the time of day to visit Berry Springs is concerned, the afternoon is a nice time because you can get a break from the heat of the day in the cool, fresh water.
It’s also a nice spot to take a picnic lunch.
What facilities are available?
There is a small kiosk where you can get ice cream, drink, or snack but otherwise, it’s best to bring your own food if you plan to eat a bigger meal.
There are picnic tables and barbeques to use.
As with any adventure in the outdoors, remember to take your trash with you. I know it shouldn’t need to be said but I have seen groups of tourists leave trash around their area and it’s sad to see.
There are public toilets on site.
Other things to do in the nearby
A visit to the Berry Springs Nature Reserve is a great option after visiting the Territory Wildlife Park because it is only a 5-minute drive away.
Litchfield National Park is another good day trip, that you probably wouldn’t combine on the same day as Berry Springs because Litchfield is a full day on its own.
It is another day trip option from Darwin you could do on a separate day where you can swim in fresh, swimming holes amongst outback waterfalls.
If you are looking for a place to eat, I recommend the Berry Springs Tavern for a classic pub-style meal.
You could do the Wildlife Park, Berry Springs swimming hole, and eat at the Berry Springs Tavern all in the one day since they are close to each other.
Here are some guides for other things to do when you visit Darwin:
- A Guide To Visiting The Territory Wildlife Park From Darwin, Australia
- How To Plan A Day Trip To Litchfield National Park – Darwin, Australia
- How To Take An Adelaide River Jumping Crocodile Cruise From Darwin
Safety Tips for visiting the Berry Springs Nature Reserve
The climate in the Northern Territory can be harsh, especially if you are not used to the tropical style of weather.
Be sure to always have water on you, protection from the sun, and stay in the shade to avoid getting hit by heat-related illnesses.
As with any outdoor adventure, you caution and your best judgment to ensure it is a fun and safe time.
If you see any wildlife, be respectful, and keep your distance.
Not all of them are friendly but most will stay out of your way if you leave them alone.
Where to stay in Darwin
I recommend basing yourself in Darwin city if you are not traveling around in a van so you have access to sights and restaurants.
In Darwin, I like to stay at either:
If you will be staying outside of town, Tumbling Waters Holiday Park has options for rooms as well as camping and campervans. Other options are Lake Bennett or the Litchfield National Park.
Hope this helps you plan a visit to the Berry Springs Nature Reserve
As with any adventure, remember to use your best judgment as to whether this would be a good option for you and always check the weather forecast before venturing out.
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