Ellery Creek Big Hole Campground
Ellery Creek Big Hole is one of the marquee stops along the Larapinta Drive corridor in the West MacDonnell National Park, Northern Territory. You’re sleeping beside a deep, permanent waterhole carved into ancient quartzite — genuinely stunning country. The campground is managed by NT Parks, with pit toilets, shaded sites, and fire rings. No drinking water on site — bring your own or treat from the waterhole. It fills fast during the dry season (May–September) with grey nomads and overland rigs; arrive early or pre-book online.
Access from Alice Springs is roughly 90km west on Larapinta Drive — sealed all the way, easy for any vehicle. Mobile service is dead out here. Fires are banned in the park during the dry season; bring a gas stove. NT Parks fees apply. A short walking track leads into the gorge — worth every step at sunrise.
Ancient gorge, permanent waterhole, zero frills.
Place Details
| Type | Established Campground |
|---|---|
| Elevation (ft) | 2280 ft |
| Nearest town | Alice Springs, NT |
| Miles from pavement | 0.5 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Paved |
| Cell service | None |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | $10.00 / night |
| Reservation required | Yes — Reservation site |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | May-September |
| Land manager | State Park |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Fire ring, Picnic table, Shade, Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |