Davenport Range National Park

Stretching across the red desert heart of the Northern Territory, Davenport Range National Park is a rugged, remote wilderness that rewards the self-sufficient traveller with ancient landscapes, rich Indigenous culture, and a profound sense of isolation. This is outback Australia at its most raw — think jagged quartzite ranges, spinifex-clad plains, and dry riverbeds that explode with wildflowers after rain. Few visitors make it here, which means you'll likely have the ochre cliffs and ghost gums all to yourself.

Highlights & What to See

• The Davenport Range itself – a striking series of quartzite ridges that glow fiery red at sunrise and sunset; the 4WD-only tracks offer unforgettable views across the desert.
• Muckaty Station – a working cattle station that borders the park; you can arrange a tour to learn about Indigenous land management and station life.
• Old Police Station Waterhole – a reliable waterhole perfect for a swim and a picnic, surrounded by towering red cliffs and paperbarks.
• Aboriginal rock art sites – several galleries along the park's creeks feature ancient paintings and carvings; treat them with respect and do not touch.
• Birdwatching and wildlife – look for red kangaroos, perentie lizards, and a dazzling array of birds including crimson chats and zebra finches around waterholes.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give yourself at least two full days to explore Davenport Range National Park. The park is accessible only by high-clearance 4WD, and many tracks are slow going. Spend the first day driving the main loop and visiting the key waterholes and rock art sites. On the second day, tackle a more challenging track like the one to the summit of Mount Davenport for panoramic views. If you're towing a camper trailer or caravan, allow extra time for negotiating the rough terrain. Most visitors camp overnight at one of the basic bush campsites — the starry skies here are phenomenal.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Tennant Creek – the nearest town (about 150 km north), with supplies, fuel, and the fascinating Battery Hill Mining Centre.
• Karlu Karlu / Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve – a surreal landscape of giant granite boulders, perfect for a sunset stop en route from Tennant Creek.
• Barkly Tablelands – vast, treeless grasslands that stretch to the horizon; a stark contrast to the rocky ranges.
• Lake Woods – a huge ephemeral lake south of Elliott that attracts thousands of waterbirds when full.
• Newcastle Waters – a historic droving town with well-preserved heritage buildings and a fascinating pioneer cemetery.

Please check official sources for current details.