Pros & cons
PROS
- Peaceful bush setting by a creek/billabong with big night skies
- Basic-but-useful setup: drop toilet, picnic tables and fire pits
- Handy base for southern highlights like Yurmikmik and Motor Car Falls
CONS
- No drinking water, showers, power or bins—pack in/out everything
- Access can be rough or closed in the wet; 4WD recommended
Overview
A quiet, no-frills bush camp tucked beside Kambolgie Creek, this is the low‑key option for exploring southern stone country without the crowds. Expect big skies at night, birdsong at dawn, and a simple setup that rewards self‑sufficient campers.
Facilities & What to Expect
- Drop (pit) toilet
- Picnic tables and fire pits/barbecues
- No drinking water, no showers, no power, no rubbish bins
- No generators; no alcohol permitted
It’s first‑come, first‑served—no bookings—so arrive with everything you need and plan to pack out all waste.
Location & Access
Set off the Gunlom–Nimbat Road, roughly 15 km from the Kakadu Highway. 4WD is recommended; some visitors make it in 2WD during the dry season. Wet‑season rains can close roads, so always check current conditions before committing.
Why Camp Here
Kambolgie is a calm, uncrowded base for southern Kakadu. You’re a short drive from the Yurmikmik walks, within easy reach of Motor Car Falls and Moline Rockhole, about 45 minutes from Gunlom, and roughly an hour from Jarrangbarnmi (Koolpin Gorge). If you prefer stars and solitude over facilities, this is your spot.
Wildlife
The billabong/creek setting attracts birdlife, and you may spot other native wildlife around dawn and dusk. Be strictly Crocwise: don’t swim, keep well back from the water’s edge, and follow all park safety advice.
Fees & Rules
Camping fees apply (Adults $6/night, Children $3, Families $15). No alcohol and no generators. Firewood can be collected along the road where permitted—follow park guidelines.
What to Bring
- Plenty of drinking water and all food/supplies
- Rubbish bags (no bins provided)
- Insect repellent and sun protection
- Solid camp gear for remote conditions and a first‑aid kit
Best Time to Visit
Dry season is the go for road access and comfort. This campground is usually quiet, so you don’t need to stress about crowds; arrive earlier in the day to pick a shaded spot. For photography and ambiance, dusk and night deliver golden light and starry skies; dawn is best for birdlife.
Where it is
-13.5031, 132.3938Tips for Kambolgie Campground
- 01Bring all your drinking water and pack out every bit of rubbish.
- 02Arrive early—sites are first‑come, first‑served and shade is limited.
- 03Check road conditions and seasonal access before you drive in.
- 04Do not swim and stay well back from the creek; be Crocwise.
- 05Use this as a base for early starts to the Yurmikmik walks and Motor Car Falls.
Amenities
Near Kambolgie Campground
All places →All trails →
5.2 mi awayGunlom Plunge Pool WalkShort, flat stroll to a classic Kakadu swim hole and picnic spotEasy · 0.1 mi · 10 min
5.5 mi awayGunlom FallsTop End infinity pools with big views and a classic plunge poolTrailhead · Restroom
6 mi awayMotor Car FallsSecluded waterfall with a deep emerald pool and wet-season accessTrailhead · Parking
8.8 mi awayMary River Ranger StationHandy info stop and toilets on the Kakadu HighwayRestroom · Parking
9.8 mi awayBukbukluk Lookout WalkA quick roadside stroll to big southern Kakadu views and a picnicEasy · 0.5 mi · 15 min
9.8 mi awayBukbukluk LookoutQuick roadside lookout over Goodparla Station and southern ridgesTrailhead · Pullout
12.4 mi awayKoolpin Gorge (Jarrangbarnmi) WalkPermit-only gorge with sparkling pools and real solitude.Moderate · 2.5 mi · 2.5 hr
12.4 mi awayNgalkunburriyaymi (Graveside Gorge) WalkPermit-only, rugged gorge walk to secluded rock poolsChallenging · 3.1 mi · 3.5 hr
