4WD Litchfield National Park adventure itinerary - 7 days

Collect your Britz 4WD in Darwin and leave the city behind for a relaxed run down the Stuart Highway toward Batchelor, the gateway to Litchfield. The scenery shifts to savannah woodland and open floodplains as you approach the park. With a short drive today, you can unroll into swimming mode by mid afternoon at one of the Top End’s most famous falls. 

Where to stop between Darwin and Wangi Falls area 

Pause at Batchelor for fuel and last minute supplies, then continue to the magnetic termite mounds. Hundreds of slim, tombstone-like mounds stand aligned north to south, nature’s own compass needles engineered for temperature control. A short boardwalk gets you close for photos. As you enter deeper into the park, the sealed road threads through monsoon forest and patchy sandstone outcrops, hinting at the water carved country you will explore over the coming days. 

Things to do in Wangi Falls area 

Wangi FallsWangi Falls is an instant mood lifter. A wide, shaded picnic lawn fronts a large plunge pool fed by two high cascades that flow most of the year. When conditions allow, swimming is a highlight. The plunge pool is deep, so follow the signs and swim only when the area is open after crocodile surveys. A short loop walk climbs through monsoon forest to viewpoints over the valley if you want to stretch your legs. Keep an eye out for agile wallabies at dusk and a chorus of birdlife in the trees overhead. Always heed on site safety signs, especially early or late in the season when swimming closures can occur. 

Where to stay in Wangi Falls area 

Set up at the Wangi Campground for an easy first night with drive in access, amenities and a quick stroll to the water. Alternatively, Litchfield Safari Camp is nearby and offers roomy sites, hot showers and a peaceful bush setting that keeps you close to tomorrow’s adventures. 

Today is about waterfall hopping and lingering swims. With a short transfer to Florence Falls, you have time for a morning float at Wangi before rolling out to one of Litchfield’s most loved twin cascades. The drive is easy and scenic, with frequent pull offs and short walks. 

Where to stop between Wangi Falls area and Florence Falls 

Break up the drive with the Cascades. A walking track leads to a series of gentle falls and rock pools, with both sunny slabs and shaded spots to cool off. It is a great place for a mid morning dip in the dry season. If it is warm, you could also stop at Buley Rockhole, where a chain of terraced pools form a natural spa. Families love the mix of shallow paddling spots and deeper ledges here. Parking can be tight in peak hours, so consider the short Florence Creek Walk that links Buley and Florence if one car park is full. 

Things to do in Florence Falls 

At Florence Falls, a compact rainforest amphitheatre cradles twin streams that tumble into a deep, clear pool. Take the 160 steps down for the immediate wow factor or opt for the more gradual Shady Creek track. Snorkel over submerged rocks, watch for rainbowfish, then lounge on warm stone ledges between swims. Above the falls, the lookout offers a postcard view across sandstone and green canopy. Late afternoon is especially photogenic as the sun softens across the gorge. 

Where to stay in Florence Falls 

Choose from the Florence Falls campgrounds. There are sites suitable for 4WD campers in a bush setting with easy access to the walks and the plunge pool. It is a comfortable base for tonight and positions you well for tomorrow’s loop to Tolmer and the Lost City. 

Pack a picnic and set out on a classic Litchfield loop that blends scenic lookouts and a short 4WD detour to an otherworldly sandstone maze. You will finish back near Wangi to be ready for the Reynolds Track in the morning. 

Where to stop between Florence Falls and Wangi area 

Your first stop is Tolmer Falls, a high, two tiered drop that plunges into a deep, restricted gorge. A sealed path leads to a dramatic lookout. The valley is protected for ghost bats and orange horseshoe bats, so swimming is not permitted, but the view is superb and the geology impressive. Continue to the Lost City via its 4WD only track. The final stretch is rough and rewarding, revealing a cluster of towering sandstone pillars and narrow alleys that look like the ruins of an ancient city. Wander carefully between the formations and listen for the rustle of small reptiles sunning on warm rock. Return to Litchfield Park Road and continue to the Wangi area. 

Things to do in Wangi area 

Back near Wangi, ease into the afternoon with another swim or a short forest walk. This is a good moment to top up water, prep an early dinner and get gear ready for tomorrow’s dirt adventure. Sunset brings golden light across pandanus and paperbarks, and the night sky is rich with stars once you step away from lights. 

Where to stay in Wangi area 

Base yourself again at the Wangi Campground for convenience, or choose Litchfield Safari Camp for extra space and a quiet bush vibe. Both options set you up for an unhurried start on the Reynolds Track.

It is time for the park’s signature 4WD drive. The Reynolds Track, also called the Reynolds River 4WD track, links the heart of Litchfield with remote falls and historic sites. It is a slow, scenic run through woodland and floodplain with rewarding swims at the end of short walks. Check current conditions before you go and lower tyre pressures as needed for comfort and traction. 

Where to stop between Wangi area and Sandy Creek (Tjaynera) 

Enter the Reynolds Track and make your first stop at Blyth Homestead. Built in 1928, this outpost speaks to the grit of early pastoral and tin mining life in a remote pocket of the park. Interpretive signage brings the Sargent family stories to life. Continue to Tjaynera Falls (Sandy Creek Falls). A gentle walk of around 1.7 km leads through open woodland to a broad, sandy creek edge and a deep, shaded pool beneath a single fall. It is a wonderful, less crowded swim when open. If time permits, carry on farther to Surprise Creek where multiple small pools and cascades reward a short scramble. This section has a more remote feel, with birdlife and dragonflies flickering over clear water. 

Things to do in Sandy Creek (Tjaynera) 

Spend the afternoon alternating between swims and shady rest spots, watching the light change across the sandstone. Keep an eye out for honeyeaters and rainbow bee-eaters, and listen for nocturnal calls as dusk arrives. With no through traffic at the campground, evenings are calm and stargazing is excellent. 

Where to stay in Sandy Creek (Tjaynera) 

Overnight at the Sandy Creek campground. Sites are bushy and well spaced, with basic facilities and a short stroll to the walking track. For an even wilder feel, you can opt for the Surprise Creek campground if you have time to continue that far before sunset. Both are 4WD access only, require advance booking and are suitable for high clearance 4WDs and camper trailers. Caravans and motorhomes are not permitted. 

Today delivers a special, secluded place to camp. You will return to Litchfield Park Road then take the 4WD access toward Central Valley, a creekside campground on the East Reynolds River. Entry is through locked gates on the Lost City access road, and you must have a confirmed booking and keys prior to arrival. The track is narrow and undulating, adding a sense of adventure without rushing the day. 

Where to stop between Sandy Creek (Tjaynera) and Central Valley campground 

On your way out from Reynolds, pause for a leg stretch at a roadside table or return briefly to Wangi for a bakery stop if you need supplies. Once you turn toward Central Valley, the environment shifts to open woodland and sparkling creek lines. Take it slow and watch for wallabies on the verge and raptors circling thermals overhead. 

Things to do in Central Valley campground 

Settle into one of the limited, spaced out sites and explore the nearby rock pools. Clear, fresh water tumbles over low shelves into small plunge pools that feel wonderfully private. The birdlife is excellent, and with only a handful of neighbours it is easy to find a quiet stretch of creek for a late afternoon soak. This is one of the most tranquil places to spend a night in the park. 

Where to stay in Central Valley campground 

Camp at Central Valley. Sites are unpowered, facilities are basic and the setting is superb. Booking only entry keeps numbers low even in peak season. Access is for high clearance 4WDs only. Camper trailers are permitted, while caravans and motorhomes are not. Bring everything you need, pack out what you bring in and enjoy the solitude. 

Ease out of Central Valley and head back toward the park’s main road, aiming for a cultural and nature stop at Greenant Creek before exiting toward Batchelor. Today is a gentle transition from the park’s interior to its gateway town with time to reflect on your favourite swims. 

Where to stop between Central Valley campground and Batchelor 

Greenant Creek leads through shady monsoon forest to Tjaetaba Falls. The area holds cultural significance for the Traditional Owners, and swimming below the falls is not permitted. Respect the signs and take your time on the short, rewarding walk. If conditions allow and signs indicate it is safe, some visitors enjoy the small pool at the top. Continue north to the termite plains for a final look at those remarkable natural compasses, then roll out of the park. 

Things to do in Batchelor 

Batchelor makes a relaxed finish to your time in the park. Wander through the tidy town, browse local art, learn about regional history and enjoy a pub meal. It is also a practical place to refuel and clean up the camper before tomorrow’s short drive back to Darwin. 

Where to stay in Batchelor 

Stay at Litchfield Tourist Park in Rum Jungle for powered sites, shaded trees and easy access back toward Darwin. The facilities make it a comfortable final camp and you are close enough to pop back into the park for a quick look if you missed anything earlier in the day. 

Enjoy a slow morning and an unhurried return to the city. The short drive gives you options to add one more Top End swim or a history stop before handing back the keys. 

Where to stop between Batchelor and Darwin 

If you have time, consider a detour to Berry Springs for a peaceful swim in clear, warm pools shaded by pandanus. Alternatively, pause at the Adelaide River War Cemetery for a moving and well kept memorial. Both stops add depth to your final day without adding much time to the drive. Always check opening status for swimming sites. 

Things to do in Darwin 

Back in Darwin, celebrate your loop with a waterfront lunch, a quick stroll through the markets if they align with your timing or a sunset on the esplanade. It is an easy place to wind down after a week of forest trails and plunge pools. 

Where to stay in Darwin 

If you are lingering an extra night, there are several caravan parks around the city that cater to campers with shaded sites and pools. Otherwise, return your Britz 4WD at the Darwin branch and start plotting your next Top End escape. 

Dry season brings warm days, cooler nights and open tracks, which makes May to October the sweet spot for this itinerary. The wet season typically runs from November to April and is hot and humid, with potential road closures and swimming restrictions. Britz branches in the Top End are not open between 1 December and 31 March. Always check current conditions, book your campgrounds ahead of time, carry a park pass and follow all safety signage, especially around waterways. Litchfield is the country of the Koongurrukun, Werat, Warray and other Aboriginal peoples. Respect cultural sites by staying on marked tracks and observing local guidance. 

Ready to chase waterfalls, watch wallabies at dusk and camp beside crystal creeks on one of the Northern Territory’s most accessible 4WD adventures? When you are ready, you can easily book your Britz camper online and pick it up from your closest Britz branch before hitting the road.