Redbank Gorge Campground

Redbank Gorge sits at the base of Mount Sonder (Rutjupma) at the western end of Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, about 156 kilometres from Alice Springs. The gorge holds an almost permanent waterhole reached by a 1km walk up the creek bed from the car park, involving some rock-hopping through a narrow, sheer-walled chasm. The water is extremely cold year round, and a flotation device like a lilo or pool noodle is strongly recommended for swimming through the gorge safely.

Two campgrounds serve the area. The Woodland campground offers a bit more shade and has gas BBQs, fire pits, picnic tables and drop toilets, making it better for longer stays. The Ridgetop campground sits higher with 360-degree views across the ranges but limited shade, best suited to winter camping when daytime temperatures are more comfortable. Neither campground has drinking water, so you must bring your own. Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits only, using firewood collected before entering the park. No generators or pets permitted.

All sites must be booked and paid for online before arrival at $10 per adult, $5 per child. An NT Parks Pass is also required for interstate visitors. The final 5km access road is unsealed and a high-clearance 4WD is recommended, though the main drives (Larapinta and Namatjira) are sealed. This is also the starting point for the Mount Sonder summit walk, section 12 of the Larapinta Trail, one of Australia’s most spectacular sunrise hikes. Look out for rock wallabies, Black-chinned Honeyeaters and the rare Grey Honeyeater around the gorge. Best visited April to October when temperatures are manageable.