Guide to Katherine Hot Springs
Just a couple of minutes from the centre of town, Katherine's natural hot springs sit right on the banks of the Katherine River, offering a string of crystal-clear pools surrounded by shady trees and tropical greenery. With free entry, easy access via a short sealed path, and clear signage on swimming safety, it’s one of the most accessible and family-friendly water spots in the region. Whether you’re here for a quick dip or a couple of hours of unwinding, the Katherine thermal pools are an easy, crowd-pleasing addition to your Katherine road trip stopover.
Why do people go to Katherine Hot Springs?
Travellers come to Katherine Hot Springs for a quick break from the road and a safe, natural place to swim. In a region that demands caution (thanks to the NT saltwater crocodile population), this is a much-welcomed activity after a long day of driving or exploring dusty Outback trails.
The Katherine thermal pools themselves are spring-fed, so the water is clean, clear, and refreshingly warm without being stifling. The pools are tiered, linked by short runs of gently flowing water, and surrounded by lush greenery that keeps the area shaded for much of the day.
It’s also a solid base for a low-effort picnic or morning coffee. There’s usually a small seasonal café set up near the entrance in the dry season, and shaded lawns and picnic tables make it easy to linger. The pathways are well-maintained and offer Katherine Hot Springs accessibility for wheelchairs and prams, which is rare for natural swimming spots in the NT.
If you’re exploring the top things to do near Katherine Hot Springs, you can pair a soak here with a visit to Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park, or check out the local galleries and markets in town.
How long should I spend at Katherine Hot Springs?
Most visitors stick around for 1.5 to 3 hours, which is enough time to wander down, soak in a few of the pools, and enjoy the shaded picnic areas without rushing. If you’re mid-road trip, it’s a great half-day reset before pushing on.
If you’ve got a bit more time in your schedule, consider combining a swim with one of the Katherine River scenic trails nearby. A slow wander along the riverbank can turn this into a relaxed morning or afternoon outing.
Is it safe to swim at Katherine Hot Springs?
Yes, Katherine Hot Springs is safe to swim in, which is part of its appeal. Unlike many natural waterholes in the NT, these are spring-fed and regularly checked for crocodiles. The springs are also within a managed recreation area, so you won’t have to worry about surprise encounters.
That said, the wet season (November–April) can bring heavy monsoonal rains, and the springs will often be closed due to flooding. Always check signage or local council updates before you go, as closures are clearly posted when they happen.
Should you shower after hot springs?
It’s a good idea to have a rinse after any hot springs swim (even natural ones like these). Minerals such as calcium, magnesium, or sulphur can stick to your skin and hair, and over time they can dry you out or damage swimwear. There are public toilets with basic facilities nearby, so you can give yourself a quick wash before heading off.
How to get to Katherine Hot Springs
From Katherine’s town centre, it’s an easy 2 km drive south along Victoria Highway. Turn right onto Riverbank Drive and follow it to the end, and the public car park is right there. From the car park, a sealed path takes you to the springs in about five minutes on foot.
If you’re coming from Darwin, it’s roughly 320 km (3–3.5 hours) south along the Stuart Highway. Once you hit Katherine, follow the same Riverbank Drive route. It’s an easy detour on your way to or from Nitmiluk National Park or as part of a longer Top End trip.
Best time to visit Katherine Hot Springs
The dry season (May–September) is the sweet spot for any NT road trip with lower humidity, clear skies, and the springs are open. Daytime temperatures average 20–32°C, which makes sitting in the warm water a lot more pleasant than during the sweaty build-up to the wet season.
For timing during the day, we recommend early morning (7–9 am) or late afternoon (4–6 pm). The morning time brings cooler air, softer light for photos, and more wildlife activity. Great for a peaceful soak before the day heats up. Alternatively, the afternoon can be another great option as the pools are shaded, the air’s cooling down, and the crowds start to thin out.
Weather at Katherine Hot Springs
Katherine Hot Springs sits in the heart of the Northern Territory’s tropical climate zone, meaning you’ll get two very distinct seasons depending on when you visit. From November to March, the wet season rolls in with high humidity, heavy afternoon downpours, and temperatures that can push well past 35 °C. While the lush greenery is at its peak, flooding can close the springs during this time.
For this reason, we always recommend travelling in the dry season (May to September). This time of year brings warm, sunny days and cooler nights, with daytime temperatures averaging between 20 °C and 35 °C. This is perfect for a long soak in the springs, exploring shaded walking tracks, or enjoying a riverside picnic without battling sticky humidity.
Best place to park your campervan at Katherine Hot Springs
There’s a free public car park right at the main entrance, and it’s big enough for campervans. It’s open-air, so aim for an early arrival if you want shade. From the carpark, the springs are a short, easy walk on a paved path, so no need to lug your gear far.
Please note that you can’t camp here overnight, but there are plenty of camping options at the nearby caravan parks in Katherine.
Road trips that pass through