Gibb River Road — Bell Gorge to Mornington Wilderness Camp via Beverley Springs Station
Corrugated Kimberley between two wild camps.
Pull out of Bell Gorge camp with wet boots from the morning swim and point the nose east. This central Kimberley segment connects the King Leopold Ranges to the Fitzroy River watershed via Beverley Springs Station — a working cattle property that doubles as a fuel and water stop and saves more than a few rigs that pushed their range too far. The dirt between Bell Gorge and Mornington is classic Kimberley corrugation: relentless, suspension-punishing, and completely absorbing. Watch for the Beverley Springs airstrip crossing — give way to mustering aircraft. The final run into Mornington Wilderness Camp drops through a narrow creek crossing before the camp’s thatched research station appears in the paperbarks.
Expect genuine corrugation and two creek crossings that require a scout after rain. A long-range tank (180L+), dual spares, and a snatch kit are non-negotiables out here — the nearest tyre shop is in Derby, over 200km west. Best run May through September when crossings are low and the gorge pools are clear. Mornington is operated by the Australian Wildlife Conservancy and charges camp fees. No cell service; satellite comms mandatory. This stretch rewards patience — hit it right and you’ll have Dimond Gorge almost to yourself.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance, Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel, Mixed |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 137 mi / 220 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1050 ft |
| Best season | May-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD with long-range tank |
| Nearest town | Derby, Western Australia |
| Land manager | Shire of Derby/West Kimberley; Australian Wildlife Conservancy (Mornington) |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Official sources | Mornington Wilderness Camp – AWC WA Tourism – Gibb River Road |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock LandCruiser 200 Series handle this stretch of the Gibb without a lift?
Yes, a stock 200 Series is fine. The issue isn't clearance — it's fuel range and tyre durability. Run at least 265s with good sidewalls and carry a minimum 30 litres extra fuel. The corrugations will shake loose anything not properly secured.
Can you drive this section of the Gibb in October or April?
Don't count on it. The Wet season (October through April) regularly makes the Gibb impassable due to flooding, closed crossings, and washed-out sections. Stick to May through September — that's the dry season window when the road is reliably open.
Do you need a permit to camp at Mornington Wilderness Camp?
Yes. Mornington is managed by the Australian Wildlife Conservancy and requires a booking and fee for camping. Walk-ins are not guaranteed a spot — book directly through AWC before you leave Derby. Beverley Springs Station may also charge a fee for transit or camping if you stop there.
What's the hardest part of this 220km stretch and what should I expect?
There's no single technical obstacle — the difficulty is cumulative. Expect relentless corrugations, multiple creek and river crossings with rocky approaches, and soft sandy sections. The crossings after wet-season rains can run deeper than expected even in June; always walk them before you drive them.
How far is the nearest fuel stop, and is there any cell service along the route?
There is zero cell service on this entire stretch — plan accordingly and carry a satellite communicator. Fuel is available in Derby before you start and at some stations further east, but availability at remote roadhouses changes seasonally. Carry enough fuel for at least 400km to be safe on this leg.
Trail track
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