Katherine Hot Springs

Just a short walk from the centre of Katherine, the Katherine Hot Springs offer a blissful natural soak in crystal-clear, thermally heated water. Flowing from the underground Tindall limestone aquifer at a constant 60°C before cooling to a comfortable 30–32°C in the rock pools, this is the kind of place where locals come to unwind and travellers discover a true outback oasis. Surrounded by paperbark trees and lush vegetation, the springs feel a world away from the dusty heat of the Stuart Highway — yet they’re right on the edge of town.

Highlights & What to See

• Soak in the main pool — a deep, clear pool fed by a gentle cascade, perfect for a relaxing dip any time of day.
• Explore the smaller rock pools upstream — follow the short walking track along the creek to find quieter spots with varying temperatures.
• Visit at sunrise or sunset — the light filtering through the pandanus palms creates a magical atmosphere, and the water is often less crowded.
• Combine with a walk along the Katherine River — the springs are part of the Katherine River system, and a riverside stroll adds to the experience.
• Picnic by the water — there are shaded grassy areas and picnic tables, making it easy to linger.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 1–2 hours here, which is ample time for a leisurely soak and a short walk along the creek. If you're after a longer, more meditative experience, consider arriving early in the morning and staying until late morning when the heat builds. The springs are free and open 24/7, so you can easily fit them into a morning or afternoon before continuing your journey.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) — just 30 km away, this spectacular series of sandstone gorges offers canoeing, cruises, and walks.
• Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park — 27 km south, these limestone caves feature guided tours through ancient formations and resident bats.
• Katherine Town — explore the local art gallery, the Katherine Museum, and the famous Katherine School of the Air.
• Mataranka Thermal Pool — about 100 km south, another iconic thermal spring with a slightly more developed swimming area.
• Elsey National Park — 100 km south, home to the Mataranka pools and the historic Bitter Springs, plus walks and birdwatching.
• Leliyn (Edith Falls) — 60 km north on the way to Darwin, a stunning plunge pool at the base of a waterfall in Nitmiluk National Park.

Please check official sources for current details.