Northern Territory · Attraction
Elsey National Park - Roper River and Jalmurark Campground
Fish and paddle outback billabongs
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Elsey National Park stretches across 139 square kilometres of tropical savanna and riparian woodland centred on the Roper River, 120 kilometres south of Katherine. The park offers fishing, boating, and riverside walking along one of the Northern Territory's most storied waterways, with the Jalmurark Campground at 12 Mile Yards serving as the base for multi-day visits. A NT Parks Visitor Pass is required to enter.
The Roper River is accessible at multiple points through the park via John Hauser Drive, with concrete boat ramps at 4 Mile and at 12 Mile Yards (Jalmurark Campground). Barramundi, saratoga, and archer fish are among the species drawing anglers to the deep waterholes at Wabalarr, Mururark, 11 Mile, and 12 Mile Yards. Outboard motors are limited to 15 horsepower on park waterways. Fishing is prohibited at Bitter Springs, Mataranka Thermal Pool, and Stevie's Hole.
Jalmurark Campground is a non-powered, 2WD-accessible site set on a grassy flat beside the river, with flushing toilets, showers, barbecues, fire pits, and a friendly campground host during the peak season from May to September. The campground is also the trailhead for a 4.1-kilometre walk to Mataranka Falls and a 21-kilometre riverside trail. Drinking water must be boiled. Book online before arriving, you cannot pay at the park.
Saltwater crocodiles inhabit the Roper River and all swimming is prohibited. The park was established in 1991 and recorded over 207,000 visitors in 2022, reflecting its status as one of the most popular parks in the Katherine region. Check current road status before planning a visit, as some park roads close seasonally after flood damage.
Scenic views
Lookouts near Elsey National Park - Roper River and Jalmurark Campground.
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