Tumbling Waters Holiday Park – Your Tropical Oasis in the Top End, NT

Sometimes, the best places are those whispered about by locals and fellow travellers. Tumbling Waters Holiday Park is one of those hidden gems. Tucked away in Berry Springs, just an hour from the Darwin CBD, it promises a getaway that feels more like a tropical retreat than a camping trip. 

Welcome to Paradise

From the moment you arrive at Tumbling Waters you’re transported to a tropical paradise. The open-air reception, swaying palm trees, and lush tropical gardens create an ambiance reminiscent of Bali. Set on 100 acres of beautiful natural bushland, there’s plenty of space for everyone, whether you’ve got a big rig, a tent, or a rooftop camper.

Layout of the Camping Areas

One of the things we absolutely love about Tumbling Waters is the thoughtful layout of their camping areas. Families with kids are grouped together, making it easy for little ones to make friends and explore safely. Meanwhile, those seeking a quieter experience can find tranquillity in separate zones. And with communal fire pits scattered throughout the grounds, you can enjoy toasting marshmallows under the stars.

Activities Galore

Tumbling Waters is packed with activities that make it easy to settle in and stay entertained:

• Two Swimming Pools: With two pools on-site, you can choose your vibe—join the fun at the resort-style pool or find a serene spot at the quieter pool on the other end of the park. Either way, a dip in the cool refreshing waters is perfect for those warm, 32-degree winter days.
• Open-Air Cinema: The open-air cinema runs every night at 7:30pm, with kids’ movies airing on Friday and Saturday nights. With tiered decking, a massive projector screen and plenty of speakers for great sound, this is an experience every member of the family will love. Bring up your picnic blanket or camp chairs for added comfort and enjoy!
• Communal Fire Pits: For those who love to toast marshmallows and enjoy a campfire, the communal fire pits are a fantastic feature. Just check in at reception for details on where these are located around the park.
• Freshwater Crocodile Sanctuary: One of the park’s unique attractions is its freshwater crocodile sanctuary. You can watch a croc (and turtle) feeding session every Saturday afternoon, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
• Fishing and Birdwatching: For those who love fishing or birdwatching, this place is heaven. With tidal rock pools and a billabong close by, fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at catching a variety of species year-round. And with over 100 recorded bird species on the property, including a number of rare species, twitchers will be in paradise. Just ask at reception for a checklist to start your bird-watching adventure.

Dining at Eat Troppo

No tropical getaway is complete without great food. Eat Troppo, the on-site café and restaurant, delivers delicious meals six days a week. From breakfast to dinner, the quality of food and service is outstanding. Don’t miss the pan-fried barramundi on salad—it’s a hit! They even have a dedicated cocktail bar shaking up the perfect tropical blends! 

And on Sunday mornings, enjoy breakfast with a side of wildlife as the Territory Wildlife Park keepers bring in different animals for a special talk and photo opportunity.

Nearby Attractions

When you’re ready to venture out, Tumbling Waters creates the perfect base to explore the Top End. Here are some must-visit spots:

• Northern Territory Airboats: a locally owned and operated business, Northern Territory Airboats specialise in unforgettable airboat tours through the stunning wetlands and flood plains. The tours offer a unique way to experience one of the world’s most breathtaking natural landscapes, while getting up close and personal with some of the Territory’s most incredible wildlife including huge saltwater crocodiles.
  
  

• Crab Claw Island Resort: Located about an hour away on the beautiful Bynoe Harbour, Crab Claw Island makes a great day trip for lunch in the open air restaurant. The Resort offers fabulous views across the harbour, a first-class fishing experience and an abundance of wildlife. The resort boasts two swimming pools, a boat ramp, waterfront and family cabins and a small selection of powered campsites.
  

• Berry Springs Nature Reserve: A local favourite, this beautiful reserve features crystal-clear swimming spots in the natural springs, and lovely green grassy picnic and BBQ areas. It’s a fantastic place to relax and connect with nature.

• Territory Wildlife Park: Located just five minutes away in Berry Springs, this park showcases the diverse wildlife of the Northern Territory, making it a must-visit for families. Set on 400 hectares of natural bushland the park features a range of habitats including monsoon forest, woodland and wetlands, and all the animals that are unique to the Top End. Our hot tip is to book in for the wildlife encounters as soon as you arrive as spaces are limited and sell out every day! 

Tumbling Waters Holiday Park isn’t just a place to set up camp—it’s a destination that offers relaxation, adventure, and a sense of community. Whether you’re looking to relax by the pool, explore the surrounding natural beauty, or immerse yourself in a variety of onsite   activities, Tumbling Waters Holiday Park has something for everyone.

You might find, like we did, that a few days just aren’t enough!

For more inspiration of things to do in the Northern Territory check out our page that has some of our top picks!