Tjuwaliyn (Douglas) Hot Springs: Douglas Daly
Tjuwaliyn (Douglas) Hot Springs
This is a great spot for a weekend away or you could even make it a day trip from Darwin. The thermal pools provide a relaxing soak in the crystal clear Douglas River. The camping site just adjacent to the springs provides toilets and picnic facilities for day use.
The thermal vents are found at various points along the riverbed over a 200–300m stretch of river, and they vary in temperature from tepid to scalding hot. The hot water from the springs mixes with the cooler water of the Douglas River so you can choose the perfect spot to get the temperature that best suits you. Also, the large trees on the riverbank provide ample shade, so you can find the best spot for yourself, and just soak away the hours.
The hot springs are certainly one of the main attractions of the area. The large camping areas on the banks above the springs provide convenient access to the springs, although the camping area is part of Parks and Wildlife NT, and fees are applicable. Toilets, showers, water, picnic tables, and barbecue pits are all available. The campgrounds do not have any powered sites but do provide a designated generator area. This is a popular camping site and can become crowded, although very few shade trees are available, and no grassy areas are to be found.
“You should always be aware of the risk of a saltwater crocodile attack in all Top End waterways.”
Getting There
The Park is located midpoint between Katherine and Darwin and is about 200 km from both Darwin and Katherine. From Stuart Highway take Dorat road (route 23) and then turn onto Oolloo Road. Note the park is only open in the dry season as such make sure the park is open before you travel. Travel south about 26km after turning onto Oolloo Road from Dorat Road. Then turn left (7km) onto a graded dirt road and transverse one shallow river crossing before arriving at the campsite. This is a dirt road and does have a water crossing but should be accessible by most vehicles with moderate clearance. Trailers and caravans are permitted.
Note
Wagiman women have sacred sites near the campgrounds; please refer to NT Parks Fact sheet to avoid these areas.