Hidden Waterfalls and Natural Pools to Visit by Campervan in Australia

Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory

Hidden deep in the rugged beauty of Australia’s Northern Territory, just two hours south of Darwin, is Litchfield National Park—a wonderland of waterfalls and refreshing plunge pools. Here, you'll find some of the Territory's most celebrated hidden water retreats. One such hidden gem is Florence Falls. This double-barreled waterfall spills gracefully into a cool plunge pool surrounded by a lush monsoon forest. It's an idyllic secluded spot where you can escape the tropical heat. Another one of the most popular swimming spots in the park is Wangi Falls. These magnificent falls, with a substantial cascading water body, pour into a large, welcoming pool. This pool has become a bucket list thing to do in Australia when visiting the Northern Territory. If you're looking for something more relaxed, however, head over to Buley Rockhole, where you can hop from one small waterhole to the next, each offering its own unique experience.

How to get here: Getting to Litchfield is pretty straightforward—just drive south from Darwin for about two hours, and you'll find yourself in this slice of heaven. The closest Britz branch to rent a van to travel around these waterfalls is the Darwin Britz branch, making it a convenient location to start your Litchfield adventure.

Where to camp: Litchfield National Park offers several facilities perfect for camping with a campervan. Florence Falls campground offers some great 2WD accessible camping close to all three falls. 

 

Image: Tourism Northern Territory Image Gallery

 

Karijini National Park, Western Australia

If you thought Litchfield was dreamy, wait until you get a glimpse of Karijini National Park in Western Australia. This natural playground is the second largest of Western Australia’s national parks and is an endless maze of deep gorges, clear water bodies, and stunning scenery. One of the must-see spots here is Fern Pool, an idyllic waterhole surrounded by ferns and trees. It’s the kind of place where you’d expect to find fairytale creatures frolicking. Another Australia must-do is Fortescue Falls, with its ever-flowing year-round stream that offers the perfect escape from Australia’s intense summer heat.

How to get here: Though reaching Karijini can be a bit of an adventure itself—several hours inland from Port Hedland—the journey is part of the fun. Your closest Britz branch is in Broome, around ten hours north, making it the ideal starting point for this epic adventure.

Where to camp: You'll find ample campervan-friendly sites where you can set up camp at Dales Campground in Karijini. 

 

Atherton Tablelands, Queensland

In the heart of Tropical North Queensland lies Atherton Tablelands, a highland paradise punctuated by a series of stunning waterfalls and refreshing natural pools. Let’s start with Millaa Millaa Falls. At first glance, this may look familiar–because it’s one of Australia’s most photographed waterfalls. This perfectly formed cascade gives you the iconic Aussie waterfall experience with a curtain of water perfect for capturing that elusive waterfall-in-motion shot. Then, close by, you will find Josephine Falls, known for its smooth, natural stone rock slides. Forget water parks; nature provides the best thrills here. Last but not least is Lake Eacham. Housed within an extinct volcanic crater, this deep, cold pool offers a refreshing dip that’ll make you feel like you’re swimming in a different world altogether.

How to get here: Atherton Tablelands is easily accessible by campervan in under 1 hour and 15 minutes from the closest Britz branch located in Cairns.

Where to camp: There are numerous campervan-friendly campsites in the Atherton Tablelands area, including Fong-On Bay, Downfall Creek and Platypus Campground. 

 

Grampians National Park, Victoria

Now let’s head south to Victoria. Many travellers ask, can you swim in waterfalls in Victoria? The answer is a resounding yes—especially at MacKenzie Falls in the Grampians National Park. This waterfall is one of the largest and most popular waterfalls in the region, as it flows year-round. With multiple levels, each tier offers a different experience: the top is all about the panoramic views, while the base offers a refreshing plunge pool. If you’re after something a little quieter, Silverband Falls offers a unique, slender cascade perfect for a more low-key outdoor adventure in the Grampians. 

How to get here: You can get here in around three hours by heading west from the Britz branch in Melbourne.   

Where to camp: There are several great campervan-friendly campgrounds in Grampians National Park, giving you a range of options for your overnight stay. One of the most popular options is Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park, revered for its on-site solar-heated pool and convenient location. 

 

Image: Visit Victoria

 

Cascades, Western Australia

Cascades in Gloucester National Park is one of the lesser-known waterholes tucked in amongst some of Western Australia’s most well-known attractions. Unlike the towering karri forests and expansive views the park is famous for, Cascades provides a more intimate encounter with nature. Here, water flows over rocks into a series of shallow pools, offering visitors a place to cool off or simply enjoy the tranquillity. Unlike many of the other waterholes on the list, this waterhole is home to a population of pouched lampreys – an eel-like creature that essentially sucks their prey to death using their chainsaw-like mouths. But don’t worry, these creatures are harmless to humans! However, you may not want to go swimming during their slimy migration. Regardless, this is definitely a fun and unique thing to observe when exploring this area by campervan. 

How to get here: With the closest Britz branch located in Perth, it takes around four or so hours to immerse yourself in this otherworldly location. 

Where to camp: Nearby Gloucester National Park, Gloucester Holiday Park is a great place to park for the night while visiting this gem.  

 

Crystal Cascades, Queensland

Just a short drive from Cairns in tropical Queensland, Crystal Cascades is an idyllic natural cold plunge pool. This clear pool hidden in a tropical rainforest is so picturesque you will want to keep it to yourself. Sadly, the cat is out of the bag and this cold plunge is a much-loved local spot to cool off in the tropical Cairns heat. Regardless, this not-so-hush-hush spot is still one of the best natural playgrounds to check out on a campervan hire adventure around this region. 

How to get here: Access to this natural plunge pool is easy, thanks to the 30-minute drive from the closest Britz branch in Cairns – making it an ideal destination for a day trip. 

Where to camp: If you want to extend the adventure, campervan facilities and campsites are readily available nearby at the Crystal Cascades Holiday Park. 

 

Tia Falls, New South Wales

Tucked away in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park is the secluded beauty of Tia Falls. While it is not the largest in NSW, it is one of the most beautiful, with its steady stream year-round. One notable feature of Tia Falls is the viewpoint that lets you see the gorge and waterfall from a distance. There are also walking trails for those interested in hiking. These paths vary in difficulty and provide different views of the surrounding area. Near the waterfall, there is also a picnic spot with tables and BBQs, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a day in nature. 

How to get here: To get to Tia Falls, drive inland from the coast of Port Macquarie in New South Wales. The closest Britz branch is in Sydney, around five hours and forty minutes south of the falls, which offers an excellent starting point for exploring New South Wales.

Where to camp: The park offers some campervan-friendly camping areas, so you can stay the night and soak up the natural beauty. One of the best places to stay nearby in your campervan hire is at the Tia Falls Campground. 

 

Image: Instagram - @_sarahlatham

 

Mataranka Thermal Pool, Northern Territory

A visit to Mataranka Thermal Pool in Elsey National Park is something you have to experience to fully grasp its wonder. Imagine a thermal pool with water so crystal-clear that you can see the sand swirling at the bottom. The water remains at a warm, balmy temperature year-round—around 34°C (93°F)—which makes it an ethereal place to unwind, especially when the air around you is cool. Towering palms and lush tropical vegetation surround the pool. Some locals even swear that the waters have therapeutic properties, perhaps due to the minerals in them. Whether or not that's scientifically proven, it's impossible to deny the feeling of utter relaxation that envelops you as you step into this tropical natural spa. 

How to get here: Mataranka is a relatively straightforward four-and-a-half-hour drive from the nearest Britz branch in Darwin – making Darwin a convenient pick-up point for your trip.

Where to camp: At the entrance of the pools, you will find Mataranka Homestead – a very conveniently located park that offers facilities that are perfect for campervan stays. 

 

Gunlom Plunge Pool, Northern Territory

Hidden in Kakadu National Park, Gunlom Plunge Pool is so much more than just a swimming hole—it's a multi-level natural wonder with a view. The base of the waterfall is where most people hang out; the pool here is deep and expansive, ideal for a relaxing swim. But for those who are up for a bit of a trek, a moderate hike up the cliff rewards you with a series of smaller plunge pools that are nature's version of infinity pools, overlooking the sweeping vistas of Kakadu National Park. The vantage point from the top is simply sublime. You'll see vast floodplains stretching out in all directions, framed by rugged ridges. It's a view—and a feeling—you won't easily forget.

How to get here: Your journey to Gunlom most easily begins from the Britz branch in Darwin, a three-hour-and-forty-five-minute drive away from the falls.

Where to camp: Campervan-friendly facilities are available nearby at the Gunlom Campground, making it a comfortable stay as you explore Kakadu.

 

Image: Tourism Nothern Territory Image Gallery

 

Ellery Creek Big Hole, Northern Territory

Last but not least, Ellery Creek Big Hole—a place that embodies a quintessential Aussie Outback Oasis experience. This spot is part of the magnificent West MacDonnell Ranges and offers a spectacular break from the arid landscapes that dominate much of the Northern Territory. Picture a deep, permanent waterhole surrounded by towering ochre-red cliffs and large, smooth boulders. The contrast of the vibrant red rocks against the cool, deep green-blue water creates a mesmerizing palette of earthy hues. This is a popular spot not just for swimming but also for picnicking; there are several shaded areas equipped with tables and BBQ facilities. Kayaking is another popular activity if you fancy a paddle in the serene waters.

How to get here: To get here, drive an hour west from the Britz branch in Alice Springs through some of Australia’s most iconic Outback landscapes.

Where to camp: The waterhole is also home to the Ellery Creek Big Hole Campground, which offers a number of convenient amenities, including BBQ, public toilets and fire pits. 

 

Ready to explore Australia’s hidden waterfalls?

There you have it—a bucket list of Australia's finest hidden waterfalls and natural pools, all accessible by campervan. If you are looking for more information for your road trip, check out some of our other top campervan hire articles, such as our top tips for freedom camping in Australia, the cost to hire a campervan, and things to know before a campervan holiday – that way, you’re all set for your campervan adventure. So, what are you waiting for? Book your campervan hire with Britz today. Your dream road trip through Australia's most enchanting natural pools and waterfalls awaits!