Cooinda Lodge Campground

Cooinda Lodge is the strategic bullseye for any family tackling Kakadu National Park. The logic for staying here is simple: the world-famous Yellow Water Billabong Cruise departs literally from your doorstep. If you stay in Jabiru, you are forcing the family into a predawn drive to catch the sunrise boat; stay here, and you can roll out of bed and walk to the shuttle. Beyond the logistics, this is a resort-style oasis in a harsh environment. The absolute “Dad savior” feature is the massive, shaded resort swimming pool. After a sweaty day climbing Ubirr or Nourlangie, having a safe, cool place to dump the kids is non-negotiable in the Top End heat. The campground offers powered and unpowered sites that are surprisingly shady given the location, suitable for everything from tents to large caravans. You also have the luxury of the on-site bistro and pub (great for a barra burger when you’re too tired to cook), plus a fuel station and general store. The Warning: You are camping next to a wetland. The mosquitoes here are prehistoric and savage. Do not mess around with “natural” repellents; bring the tropical strength DEET. Also, this is croc country—stay away from the water’s edge unless you are on the boat. Strictly no pets.