Gunlom Falls, one of Kakadu National Park’s most popular attractions, has officially reopened following a six-year closure.
Visitors will be able to access the top pool and the Gunlom campground from 8am this morning. However, the bottom pool remains closed as rangers continue their search for a crocodile believed to have been inhabiting the area.
There will be traditional dances performed later this morning to celebrate the reopening, and there’ll also be a jumping castle for the kids.
Famously featured in the 1986 worldwide hit movie Crocodile Dundee starring Paul Hogan, the falls were closed in 2019 because of damage to a sacred site and subsequent lengthy High Court proceedings.
While the reopening was originally planned for earlier this year, it was delayed due to flooding in the Top End impacting essential roadworks and infrastructure, and then again in May due to unseasonably heavy rain flooding the site.
One of Kakadu National Park’s most iconic destinations, Gunlom Falls is known for its cascading waterfall and crystal-clear plunge pool at the top of a short hike to the summit which boasts stunning panoramic and insta-worthy views of the park. If a hike to the top is not your thing, have a swim beneath the waterfall at the at the lower pool, with a pristine sandy beach and crystal-clear waters.
NT national parks staff have worked hard to ensure the safety of the site once it is opened to visitors, particularly as water levels have remained high following late seasonal rain.
The campground at Gunlom Falls is accessible via a dry weather road from the Kakadu Highway about 50km from the nearest hub at Cooinda. It caters for tents, caravans and camper trailers. Fees are $15 per adult per night, $7.50 for kids and $38 for families. Facilities include drinking water, barbecues, bins, showers and toilets. There is no power, but generators are permitted. Alcohol is also allowed.
Camping at Gunlom Falls
There’s no need to book ahead as it is operated on a first-come, first-served basis. The on-site campground manager will collect your camping fees. Local walks include the 2.5km return walk leading to Murrill Billabong and the South Alligator River.
For updates on Gunlom Falls and Kakadu acess keep an eye on the Parks Australia website.
And to grab a copy of Hema Maps’ newly released 1st Edition Top End and Gulf Atlas & Guide (RRP $59.95), which includes great information about Kakadu National Park, click here.
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Gunlom Falls in Kakadu National Park has reopened!