Ellery Creek Big Hole
Spectacular waterhole with walking, swimming, picnics and camping
Heat warning
Temperatures across the Northern Territory can be very hot between October and April.
It can exceed 40 degrees Celsius in some locations. High humidity in the Top End can also make you tire easily.
Check forecast temperatures before you visit. Find out how to prepare and stay safe in the heat.
Ellery Creek Big Hole is a spectacular waterhole in the mighty Ellery Creek which cuts through a gorge in the West MacDonnell Ranges.
Thousands of years of massive floods have carved out this waterhole and unlocked some amazing geology.
It is located 80km west of Alice Springs.
Access is by Larapinta and Namatjira Drives. The last 2km is unsealed.
Roads can become impassable for a short period after heavy rain.
This park requires visitors to the NT to have a parks pass.
Get the Ellery Creek Big Hole fact sheet and map PDF (1.2 MB).
Check if the park is open
Swimming
The permanent waters of Ellery Creek is a 5 minute walk from the carpark.
The waterhole is ideal for swimming, especially in the warmer months.
Swimmers should be aware that most waterholes are extremely cold.
Prolonged exposure, even during summer, can result in hypothermia.
Beware of submerged logs and rocks.
Do not jump, dive or swing into the water.
Camping
Camping facilities are available for tents, trailers and caravans.
Gas barbecues and toilets are provided.
Bring your own drinking water if you are planning to camp.
Ellery Creek Big Hole is a category B campsite.
Book and pay online
You must book and pay online for designated campsites and some multi-day walking trails. Do this before you go.
You can't pay at the park.
Find out more about how to use parks booking system.
If you are ready, book now.
Walks
There are 2 main walks from Ellery Creek:
- Ellery Creek
- Dolomite.
There is also the more challenging 32km Ellery Creek loop walk that joins partly with the Larapinta Trail.
Address
80km west of Alice Springs. Access is via Larapinta and Namatjira DrivesContact
08 8951 8250Park pass required
YesFacilities
- BBQ - Gas
- Caravan
- Disabled access
- Firepit
- Information signs
- Public toilets
- Water - Boil before drinking
Activities
- Camping
- Picnic
- Swimming
- Walking