Keep River National Park

Keep River National Park is a rugged and remote gem in the far north of Western Australia, just a stone's throw from the Northern Territory border. This park offers a raw, untamed landscape of ancient sandstone escarpments, sprawling savannah woodlands, and dramatic gorges. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the vastness of the Australian outback, with a sense of solitude that's increasingly rare. The park is part of the traditional lands of the Mirriwong and Gadjerong people, and their deep connection to the land is palpable. For self-drive travellers, it's a perfect off-the-beaten-path detour between Kununurra and the Northern Territory's national parks, offering a quieter alternative to the more famous Bungle Bungles.

Highlights & What to See

• Goorrandalng (Cockburn Range) lookout: A stunning viewpoint offering panoramic vistas over the park's sandstone ridges and the Keep River floodplain, especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
• Jarnem (Miri Miri) walk: A moderate 2.5 km return hike that leads to a tranquil waterhole at the base of a cliff, perfect for a refreshing dip after the walk.
• Goorrandalng (Cockburn Range) gorge: Explore the narrow gorge with its towering rock walls and pockets of lush vegetation; keep an eye out for rock wallabies and birdlife.
• Brolga lookout and wetlands: A boardwalk and viewing platform overlooking seasonal wetlands, which attract a variety of waterbirds, including brolgas and magpie geese.
• Ancient rock art sites: The park contains several significant Aboriginal rock art sites, with paintings and engravings that offer a glimpse into the region's rich Indigenous heritage.

Suggested Time to Spend

A minimum of half a day is needed to appreciate the park's key sights, but a full day allows for a more leisurely pace, including a longer hike and time to soak in the atmosphere. If you're self-driving, it's best to visit as a day trip from Kununurra (about 1.5 hours east) or incorporate it into a multi-day itinerary that includes nearby national parks. The dry season (April to October) is the most comfortable time to visit, as the wet season can make roads impassable.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kununurra – The nearest town, offering supplies, accommodation, and access to Lake Argyle and the Ord River.
• Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungles) – Famous for its beehive-shaped sandstone domes, about 2.5 hours south-west.
• Gregory National Park – Across the border in the NT, with dramatic escarpments and Victoria River gorge scenery.
• Timber Creek – A small NT town with a fascinating history and access to the Victoria River.
• Lake Argyle – Australia's largest artificial lake, offering cruises and stunning landscapes.

Please check official sources for current details.