Gibb River Road

A journey along the Gibb River Road four wheel drive route is one of the last true outback adventures. Originally constructed in the 1960s to transport stock from surrounding cattle stations, it stretches some 660km from King Sound in Derby to Wyndham.

View a map from Main Roads showing which sections of the Gibb River Road are sealed. Before you head off, familiarise yourself with what to expect and plan for any potential issues, so that you can safely enjoy this incredible experience.

Highlights include Bandilngan Windjana Gorge, Dimalurru Tunnel Creek, Lennard Gorge, Dalmanyi Bell Gorge, Galvans Gorge, Manning Gorge, El Questro Wilderness Park and more.

Seasonal opening and closing dates across the Gibb can vary at short notice based on local conditions, weather and roads.

If travelling close to the start or end of dry season, always call a local visitor centre or contact the place you plan to visit directly to confirm they are open before you make plans to travel.

For your safety and out of respect for Traditional Owners, please do not attempt to access closed parks.

Travel on the Gibb River Road can be restricted during the wet season (usually around November through to April).
Flooding and road closures are common and access to gorges is often limited or not possible.
Side-tracks into gorges are often closed, even if the Gibb River Road is open.
Please stay informed, be safe on the roads, and obey the road closure notices.

Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge) National Park
Updates and park alerts here.

Birdwood Downs Station
Bookings are strongly advised June-August.

Bungle Bungle Caravan Park & Tour Co.
Not taking bookings at this time for 2024 season.

Charnley River Wilderness Camp
CLOSED to public visitation due to extensive damage caused by ex-tropical cyclone Ellie. Originally known as “Beverley Springs”, it was the first property to accommodate tourists along the Gibb River Rd. Now managed by the Australian Wildlife Conservancy as a sanctuary with some area still set aside to run cattle. Charnley is located 1.5 hours or 43km north of the Gibb River Road, 5 hours or 320km from Derby and 7 hours or 540km from Broome.

Danggu Geikie Gorge National Park
CLOSED Re-opening will be announced by Parks and Wildlife Services once the flood recovery work is completed and the park is safe. For your safety and out of respect for Traditional Owners, please do not attempt to access closed parks.

Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek) National Park
The park is expected to reopen 24th April 2024

Dulundi (Silent Grove)
The campground is expected to reopen 24th April 2024

Dalmanyi (Bell Gorge) in Wunaamin Conservation Park
The park is expected to reopen 24th April 2024

El Questro
Emma Gorge Resort, The Station and Emma Gorge Walk.
Expected Station is open for 2024, and Emma Gorge Resort is expected to open on the 1st May 2024.

Imintji Campground
Open from 1st May for 2024 dry season
Camp Ground Fees 2024
Adults $19.00, Pensioners $17.00, Children under 15 to 5 yrs $15.00, Under 5yrs Free
Family Rates also available. Please check in at the Imintji Store. There is no need to book ahead.

Lennard Gorge in Miluwindi Conservation Park.
This location is expected to reopen 24th April 2024

Miichell River National Park and Campground
Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation (WGAC) has introduced the Uunguu Visitor Pass for all visitors accessing exclusive possession native title lands by road, air and coast. Purchase your Uunguu Visitor Passes here.
The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions will no longer be charging visitor entry fees to Mitchell River National Park. High clearance 4WDs access only due to road conditions. Camping fees at the national park campground will still apply.
Mitchell River National Park will open EARLY MAY (date to be confirmed), pending safe access via the Gibb River Road and Port Warrender Road.

Mt Elizabeth Station Stays – Mt Elizabeth Station is about as close to the heart of the Kimberley region in Western Australia as you can get. Located roughly half way between Kununurra and Derby on the iconic Gibb River Road, Mt Elizabeth is a half-million acre, fully operational cattle station that also welcomes guests. Offering camping, dinner, bed and breakfast options within a genuine outback setting is what Mt Elizabeth is famous for. Please ensure accommodation bookings are made in advance as we book out quickly during the season. Opening on 1st May 2024.

Walarra Mindi (Mt Hart)
Mt Hart Wilderness Lodge – offering unique accommodation or camping 49km off the Gibb, Mt Hart historically was the first cattle station “over the range”. History as well as access to Mount Matthew and Annie Gorge is a great reason to detour off the Gibb. NEW!! Ventur Atlas are operating tours Ex-Broome. Mt Hart Homestead and campground and visitor sites in Wunaamin Conservation Park scheduled to open 29th April 2024,

Purnululu National Park
Opens Wed 1st May 2024,
High clearance 4WDs access only due to washouts and high-water levels in creek crossings. Dual-axle caravans and trailers are not permitted. VIEW ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT ACCESS HERE

Violet Valley Campground Secluded campsites sit in a natural bush setting on the banks of the Bow River, just 36km from the entrance to World Heritage listed Purnululu National Park. Bookings are Essential. Book here for dates from 1st May 2024 - 30th September 2024. Location - GPS S-17.269112 E-128.067687 Find on Google Maps

* Seasonal opening and closing dates across the Gibb and located remote parks and attractions in the Kimberley can vary and change at short notice based on local conditions, weather and roads.

KEEP CHECKING FOR UPDATES AS YOU TRAVEL!

You can check for the the latest information about park closures and related works before you travel, please visit: https://alerts.dbca.wa.gov.au/

BOOKINGS FOR NATIONAL PARKS AND PARK PASSES

Online bookings are recommended for all National Parks campgrounds at https://parkstay.dbca.wa.gov.au - Park passes can be purchased at https://exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au/park-passes *REMEMBER to print and display your booking number in your vehicle front window or write out a docket when you arrive at the park.

TOWING A CARAVAN?

Please have a read about towing a caravan if you need more information about towing in the Kimberley or caravan storage options for the Gibb River Road journey. Please drive to road conditions and allow more travel time to ensure your safety.

HELPFUL LINKS

DOWNLOAD THE GREATEST OF ALL TIME GIBB RIVER ROAD GUIDE

Pentecost River Crossing

The famous Pentecost River crossing is located on the Gibb River Road. The Pentecost River is a major river crossing. This crossing a great place to try for a big barramundi - always be croc wise! You may see people swimming here, but we advise you to be cautious and consider the risks.

The Pentecost River crossing is probably a highlight when it comes to four-wheel-drive enthusiasts who plan to drive the Gibb River Road. The photographs taken, the memories made and the stories told will always feature your own driving experience through the Pentecost River crossing.

Early in the season, after the wet, the water levels are likely to be higher and you must remember this is saltwater crocodile country. Be sure to appreciate the views of the Cockburn Ranges and take your time, be safe, and always check road conditions before you decide to cross. Happy driving Gibbers!

Manning Gorge

Manning Gorge has access from Mt Barnett Roadhouse and the campground is along the banks of the lovely Manning River. Great swimming here or walk one hour to the Upper Manning Falls. The Kupungari Aboriginal Community at Mt Barnett welcome visitors and maintains the camping area there.

UPDATE: Bookings are not required for camping at Manning Gorge. Passes for Camping and Day use are available for purchase at the Mount Barnett Roadhouse on arrival.

How to get to Manning Gorge
Manning Gorge is located in Mt Barnett Station on the Gibb River Road in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. Vehicle access is dependent on weather, with Manning Gorge most accessible during the months of May through to October.

Manning Gorge is 306km from Derby (to the west) and 398km from Kununurra (to the east).

Drive: From Mt Barnett Roadhouse, the access road to Manning Gorge is approximately 7km

Entrance Fees: Entrance fees are payable at the Mt Barnett Roadhouse.

Stay: The camping area at Manning Gorge offers basic facilities. No bookings are taken for the campsite. Travellers can pay their fees at the roadhouse during opening hours or to the campsite caretakers after hours.

Dalmanyi Bell Gorge

Dalmanyi Bell Gorge is one of the Gibbs most spectacular gorges and a must see. It has a deep swimming hole at the base of the 100m high falls. Water cascades from the Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges increase after the rain of the wet season. During the dry season, this popular location allows visitors to swim and enjoy this beautiful location. Dalmanyi Bell Gorge is about 11km to the north-west of this campsite.

Location: Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges Conservation Park
Accessible: usually between May through to October
Car Park: 30km along Silent Grove Road (need 4WD)
Camping: Camping at Dulundi (Silent Grove) can be booked online (no powered sites) or Imintji (check in at the Imintji Store, no need to book ahead).
UPDATE: For Dulundi (Silent Grove) campground updates, please check the Parks Alerts page here.

Take extra caution and drive slowly to road conditions, Bell Gorge road is single lane in some sections. High clearance 4WDs access only. Campground bookings are essential.

The information below is from the Department of Parks and Wildlife:
At the head of the Dulundi (Silent Grove) Valley, Bell Creek drops 150 metres into a gorge to form a waterfall that cascades over the layered sandstone rocks and continues north-west to join the Isdell River. The base of the falls form a deep pool surrounded by ledges and sheltered by rocky walls that is a superb spot for swimming. If this popular site is too busy for your liking, you can also explore upstream.

Dalmanyi (Bell Gorge) Walk Trail
2 km walk from the car park at Bell Gorge to a section of the creek just above the falls with spectacular views of the gorge and waterfall. Steep and rocky in sections.

Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges (previously King Leopold Ranges) has been divided into two parks: Miluwindi Conservation Park (Bunuba country at the southern section of the Gibb River Road) and Wunaamin Conservation Park (Wilinggin country, land of the Ngarinyin people, at the northern section of the Gibb River Road).

Lennard River Gorge - 3km (return) walk from the parking area to the lookout where the falls can be viewed. Details here

The Mount Hart Wilderness Lodge/ Walarra Mindi (Mount Hart) Homestead is located in the heart of the Wunaamin Conservation Park. Aquatic plants fill pools in creeks and rivers, providing cool relief from the starkness of the harsh escarpment. Head out on remote tracks and you’ll discover the region is sprinkled with waterholes, idyllic fishing spots and secluded gorges. They offer plenty of unpowered campsites, limited accommodation (safari tents & homestead rooms), delicious bar meals, alcoholic beverages to catch stunning Kimberley sunsets, ice to keep your esky food cold and plenty of diesel.

Galvans Gorge – a beautiful little gorge with easy access just 1 kilometre off the road. A delightful spot for a refreshing swim. Galvans Gorge is a good stop off on the journey between Dalmanyi Bell Gorge and Mt Barnett Roadhouse/Manning Gorge.

Photo credits: Tourism Western Australia and Mount Hart Wilderness Lodge

Dimalurru Tunnel Creek

Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek) National Park is Western Australia's oldest cave system. Part of the same ancient Devonian reef system as Bandilngan Windjana Gorge, the cave has been carved by the waters of Dimalurru Tunnel Creek flowing beneath the Napier Range. You can walk 750 metres into the tunnel, wading waist-deep through freshwater pools or join a tour with a local Bunuba guide.

Campgrounds are located at Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge) National Park (The park is expected to reopen in April/May 2024 pending weather and road conditions).
There is no camping at Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek).

Download the Bandilngan Windjana Gorge and Dimalurru Tunnel Creek national parks visitor guide produced by DPAW.

Freshwater crocodile risk
When you are entering the Kimberley, you are entering crocodile country. Johnston’s (freshwater) crocodiles live in the waterways at Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge) and Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek). They can become aggressive and cause injury if disturbed. For your safety please do not approach or interfere with these animals.

Please check for park alerts relating to access for this location.

Danguu Geikie Gorge, Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges

Danggu Geikie Gorge was carved by the Fitzroy River through part of an ancient limestone barrier reef which snakes across the west Kimberley. It was laid down in an ancient sea that covered a large part of the Kimberley in Devonian times, some 350 million years ago. Read more information from Parks and Wildlife here.

Danggu Geikie Gorge Boat Tour
Daily: May to October
Danggu Geike Gorge boat tours take place from May to October and give an insight into the wildlife and geology of the gorge. Birdlife abounds and you may see white-bellied sea eagle or even a rare purple-crowned fairy-wren. Freshwater crocodiles sun themselves in full view on river banks and exposed rocks.
BOOK ONLINE (via Parks and Wildlife Service WA)

Cultural boat tours are guided by Bunuba Aboriginal people whose connection to this land goes back to the Dreamtime. Tours depart at various times. Tickets must be booked with the Fitzroy Crossing Visitor Centre on (08) 9191 5355.

Download the Danggu Geikie Gorge visitor guide (1.7MB)

Photos: Geikie Gorge, Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges, Tourism Western Australia

Update from Parks and Wildlife: Danggu Geikie Gorge National Park is closed. Re-opening will be announced once the flood recovery work is completed and the park is safe. Boat tours are not viable in 2024. For your safety and out of respect for Traditional Owners, please do not attempt to access closed parks. Keep up to date with the Danggu Geikie Gorge Recovery Project at www.dbca.wa.gov.au/danggu

Bandilngan Windjana Gorge

The first gorge turnoff you will come to along the Gibb River Road will take you to the 375 million-year-old Devonian Reef Gorge of Bandilngan Windjana Gorge some 145kms from Derby. Carved by the Lennard River, Bandilngan Windjana Gorge is over three kilometres long with 300 metre-high walls. Freshwater crocodiles can be seen sunning themselves on the banks.

The area is of great cultural importance to the local Bunuba people who once lived there, and was the base for Jandamurra, the Indigenous outlaw who led an armed rebellion against European settlers in the 1890s. Lovely camping spot and great place to watch the sunset as the colours reflect on the cliffs of the gorge.

A four-wheel-drive is recommended to access the park. The park is closed during the wet season as the roads are inaccessible.

Download the visitor guide for Bandilngan Windjana Gorge National Park produced by DPAW.

For updates about Tunnel Creek and Windjana National Park check the Parks Alerts page here.

Photos: Bandilngan Windjana Gorge National Park, off the Gibb River Road

El Questro Wilderness Park

El Questro Wilderness Park is a million acres of pure, rugged beauty it began its life as a pastoral lease in 1903. The landscape offers outstanding diversity - from rugged sandstone ranges and broad tidal flats, to rainforest pockets, gorges and permanent waterfalls. El Questro Wilderness Park is a unique place, where you'll feel a sense of adventure at every turn. The Station is the base of most tours and offers camping and accommodation. Emma Gorge Resort gives access to the beautiful Emma Gorge and accommodation. Accommodation and campsite bookings for El Questro can be made here.

Selected tours from Kununurra to El Questro are bookable here.

Photos: Emma Gorge, Zebedee Springs, and Emma Gorge Resort

Honeymoon Bay / Kalumburu

NO NEED TO BOOK FOR CAMPING: if you can get there (once open), you can stay there. As of 2023, you won’t need to pre-book charters either: to avoid the uncertainty of the road ruining your best-laid plans, charter bookings will now only be done upon arrival. Persons wishing to obtain access to travel into or through Kalumburu and Honeymoon Bay, are to apply for this access directly through the community.
Website

Cockburn Ranges

The Cockburn Ranges, in the East Kimberley, rise 600m above the surrounding plains. They form an iconic view (especially on sunset!) that has become synonymous with travelling the Gibb River Road. Located between El Questro and Balanggarra Home Valley, the range is a sandstone escarpment.