Berry Springs Nature Park
Berry Springs Waterfall
Overview
Berry Springs Nature Park provides an attractive area close to Darwin for recreational activities, and also provides a refreshing swimming spot after a day at the Territory Wildlife Park.
The Park protects a large part of the Berry Creek catchment. The creek begins as a series of springs, forms a small creek, then reaches Darwin Harbour through a mangrove lined estuary.
Whilst enjoying the pools, if you swim with goggles you can see many small native fish and other aquatic life that live in the clear pools. Wildlife is abundant.
How to Get There
Turn west off the Stuart Highway about 47 km south of Darwin. The Park is 10 km along the Cox Peninsula Road.
When to Visit
The Park is open from 8.00 am to 6.30 pm daily.
If you are interested in plants, visit the Park during March and April
when many of the native plants are in flower and the grasses are still
green.
What to See and Do
The interpretive display provides a brief description of the area, including historical references, photographs and information on wildlife.
The Territory Wildlife Park is only 1 km further west along the Cox Peninsula Road.
Visitor Facilties
The Park has a Ranger Station, drinking water, barbecues, kiosk and toilets including a wheelchair accessible toilet.
Please Remember
Safety and comfort
- Observe park safety signs.
- Swim only where recommended, observe warning signs.
- Wear a shady hat, sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Please don't take glass near the pools, as breakages are a safety hazard.
- Beware of theft, lock vehicles and secure valuables.
Please remember
- Put your rubbish in the bin or take it away with you.
- Keep to designated roads, tracks and parking areas.
- All cultural items and wildlife are protected.
- Pets are not permitted in this Park.
- Nets, traps and firearms are not permitted.
- Fishing is not permitted in this Park.
- Take care with fire, and light fires only in fireplaces provided.
- Use firewood provided sparingly.
- Camping is not permitted.
- Check that your vehicle is not transporting pests like weeds and Cane Toads.
Fact Sheet
- Download fact sheet (pdf 637Kb)
Recreational Activities
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Berry Springs Nature Park is a terrific location close to Darwin where visitors can swim, go bushwalking, or enjoy a picnic.
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Picnic Tables
Lots of shady picnic areas are available with tables and barbeques. -
Swimming
There are several shady pools along Berry Creek which have steps allowing easy access. -
No Swimming
The pools may be temporarily closed in the wet season (October - April) when conditions are considered unsafe. -
Walking Tracks
A lovely loop walking track takes you through two of the Top End's Natural wildlife habitats. It starts from the picnic area - so take along your binoculars if you are keen on bird watching. -
Kiosk
The kiosk is open during periods of high visitation, but generally from late morning to mid afternoon.
Scenic and Cultural Features
European history
During WWII, Berry Springs was part of a Rest and Recreation Camp set up by the armed forces for the 100 000 personnel based in the area. A number of huts and a weir were built at Berry Springs during this time. You can still see their remains around the main pool. Berry Springs continues to be popular with locals and tourists as a place for rest and recreation.
Plants and Animals
If you swim with goggles you can see many small native fish and other aquatic life that live in the clear pools. SOme of the more obvious fish can be seen from above the water. Many bird species can be seen as there is a zone where two major habitats meet. The forest species and the species that inhabit the creekline can all be seen on the walking track.
Ranger Guided Activities
Parks Alive Program
Free Ranger guided activities are provided in this Park in June and July each year.
Check out the Top End Territory Parks Alive brochure for activities offered in 2012.