Gibb River Road

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 book online for Imintji Campground.
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.

Lennard River Gorge - Darrambal

Lennard River Gorge - Darrambal is located in the Miluwindi Conservation Park. A 3km (return) walk from the parking area to the lookout where the falls can be viewed. Details here

Galvans Gorge

Galvans Gorge is located in the Wunaamin Conservation Park. 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.

Mount Hart

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 pro­vid­ing ensuit­ed eco-tent and home­stead accom­mo­da­tion, as well as shady river­side camping, delicious bar meals, alcoholic beverages, ice to keep your esky food cold and plenty of diesel.

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. 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.
Boat tours are currently not available. Download the Danggu National Park FAQ's

Danggu National Park will open for DAY VISITS AND VIEWING ONLY in 2025 with basic facilities, a carpark and toilets available. Please be aware that no swimming is permitted due to submerged hazards. Please stay in the designated visitor use area. Danggu (Geikie Gorge) National Park is expected to reopen May 2025, pending weather conditions. For your safety, do not attempt to access closed areas. Check Park Alerts for latest updates on park closures and openings at https://alerts.dbca.wa.gov.au

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

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 courtesy of Tourism WA

Mornington Wilderness Sanctuary

Mornington Wilderness Sanctuary – 88km or a two hour drive south off the Gibb. It covers more than 3,000 km2 of spectacular gorges and tropical savannah dominated by the Fitzroy River and Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges. It is a naturalist’s paradise, providing refuge for over 200 species of birds and a diverse range of other wildlife. Popular activities include canoeing down Dimond Gorge and swimming and exploring Siry John Gorge. Closed for the 2025 season.

Kalumburu

Two permits are required to travel to Kalumburu. All visitors who enter Kalumburu must obtain a valid community Permit. Permits can be obtained at a cost of $50 (inc gst) per vehicle. You can purchase your permit on arrival into the community via the Community Resource Centre or the Uraro Store. An Entry Permit (free) is also required for transit through Aboriginal Reserves, including Kalumburu, and can be obtained online from the Department of Aboriginal Affairs, or call 1300 651 077. You should apply for this before you leave. Please note that Kalumburu is a dry community. Alcohol may not be possessed or consumed on the reserve.

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.

Driving in Western Australia

Prepare for your next road trip downloading a copy of Main Roads Driving in Western Australia Guide
- Safe stopping places
- EV charging locations
- Parking bays and rest areas
- What to expect on the road in WA

Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge) National Park Updates and park alerts here.
The park is expected to reopen mid-May 2025 pending weather and road conditions.

Birdwood Downs Station Bookings are strongly advised June-August. The Station is usually open for camping and accommodation from 1 April until 30 September.

Bungle Bungle Caravan Park & Tour Co. Opening 1st May 2025. Please check directly for confirmation.
Bookings are open NOW and we're so excited to be welcoming guests this year. We have 4x4 bus tours into the world heritage Purnululu National Park, visiting Cathedral Gorge & Echidna Chasm daily ( numbers dep ) inclusive of morning tea, lunch and Dinner on your return. The Bar a van opens at 4.30pm, just as the fire pit takes hold for the evening. Booking Dinner is a sinch! Communal at the Mabel Downs Bull Ring as our Chefs prepare a feast from the land, sea & earth, all locally sourced and finished with desserts to die for; will bound to combine travel tales, experiences and new friends.

Charnley River Wilderness Camp CLOSED to public visitation due to extensive damage caused by ex-tropical cyclone Ellie.

Danggu Geikie Gorge National Park
Danggu (Geikie Gorge) National Park is expected to open May 2025, pending weather conditions. For your safety, do not attempt to access closed areas.

Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek) National Park
The park is expected to reopen mid-May 2025 pending weather and road conditions.

Drysdale River Roadhouse
Closed. Gate is locked. Sorry NO access. Road permitting all services will open again on 1st May 2025.

Dulundi (Silent Grove) Online bookings are essential for Dulundi (Silent Grove) campground during the tourism season. The park is expected to reopen mid-May 2025 pending weather and road conditions.

Dalmanyi (Bell Gorge) in Wunaamin Conservation Park. Online bookings are essential for Dulundi (Silent Grove) campground during the tourism season. The park is expected to reopen mid-May 2025 pending weather and road conditions.

El Questro (Emma Gorge Resort. Homestead and The Station). Book your El Questro accommodation for 2025 season. El Questro Homestead and The Station are OPEN. Emma Gorge to open 1st May 2025. These dates are subject to change. El Questro Tours (ex Kununurra) can be booked online here.

Imintji Campground Bookings from 1st May 2025 onwards can be made here.

Lennard Gorge in Miluwindi Conservation Park. CLOSED

Manning Gorge Campground and walk. Manning Gorge and Campground is open for the 2025 tourist season

Mitchell River National Park and Campground Purchase your Uunguu Visitor Passes here. DBCA will no longer be charging visitor entry fees to Mitchell River National Park. Camping fees at the national park campground will still apply. High clearance 4WDs access only due to road conditions. Mitchell River National Park will open early May, pending safe access via the Gibb River Road and Port Warrender Road, date TBC. Stay tuned to Park Alerts for updates.

Munurru Campground - Wunam­bal Gaam­bera (King Edward River) Expected opening 1st May 2025 subject to conditions.

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. We are now fully licensed! You can buy a bottle of wine to enjoy with your dinner or a few beers to take back to your campsite. Another good reason to stop in at MtE on your Gibb adventure! Expected opening May 2025 subject to conditions.

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. The park is expected to reopen mid-May 2025 pending weather and road conditions.

Purnululu National Park
High clearance 4WDs access only due to washouts and high-water levels in creek crossings. Dual-axle caravans and trailers are not permitted. Learn more about access here.
23/4/2025 2.19PM update - Purnululu National Park is open.
Please note, not all areas of the park are open, check Park Alerts before you go.
- Entry fees can be paid at the ticket machine in front of the Visitor Centre
- High clearance 4WDs access only.
- Dual axle caravans and trailers are not permitted.
- Please drive to road conditions and allow more travel time to ensure your safety.
Walardi Campground is open – book camping and park entry online.
All southern walks from Piccaninny car park are open – The Domes, Cathedral, Creek Lookout, The Window and Whipsnake.
Purnululu Visitor Centre and Piccaninny Gorge Trek are expected to open early May.
Some walks in the north (including Escarpment, Mini Palms, Homestead Valley, Stonehenge) are currently closed and expected to open in the coming weeks.
Kurrajong Campground will open 1 May.

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. Location - GPS S-17.269112 E-128.067687 Find on Google Maps Expected opening 1st May 2025 subject to conditions.

* 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.

As the wet season commences, road access to Kimberley parks may quickly change if roads become impassable. Keep up to date with local weather reports and road closures and be prepared for your plans to change.

Check Park Alerts at https://alerts.dbca.wa.gov.au on the latest park information.

Please check Emergency WA at www.emergency.wa.gov.au, Main Roads WA, and local shire websites for road condition reports.
For further information, please contact the Parks and Wildlife Service - East Kimberley District Office in Kununurra on (08) 9168 4200.