Mary River National Park Park

Address: Mary River National Park, Northern Territory, Australia

Website: https://nt.gov.au/leisure/parks-reserves/find-a-park-to-visit/find-a-park-by-map/mary-river-national-park

Mary River National Park is a protected area in the Top End of Australia’s Northern Territory that conserves floodplains, rivers and wetlands associated with the Mary River system. The park is notable for abundant birdlife and one of the highest reported densities of saltwater crocodiles in northern Australia.

Recreational activities include wildlife cruises, fishing and boat-based viewing of the floodplain habitats; much of the park is accessible from the Arnhem Highway. The landscape alternates between billabongs, floodplain grasslands and patches of woodland, creating important habitat for waterbirds.

The park lies in the coastal plains of the Northern Territory, roughly east-southeast of Darwin and within the greater Arnhem Land bioregion; access is commonly via the Arnhem Highway and regional arterial roads.

• Wildlife viewing: High densities of saltwater crocodiles and waterbirds make the park a prime location for wildlife viewing; guided boat cruises on the Mary River are a common way to see wildlife.

About 100-150 km east of Darwin depending on the park sector. Reachable by sealed and unsealed roads; 4x4 recommended for many internal routes. Organized tours from Darwin are available.

• Hire a guide or use park maps - floodplains and river systems can be confusing and access to remote zones requires local knowledge.
• Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the park supports significant waterbird populations.
• Avoid the wet season when roads can become impassable; arrange transport with a 4x4 vehicle.