Hot Springs in Northern Territory

The Northern Territory's hot springs are centred on the Top End, where natural thermal pools have long been important sites for local Aboriginal communities and are now popular swimming spots for travellers. Mataranka Thermal Pool and Bitter Springs, both within Elsey National Park, are crystal-clear, palm-fringed thermal pools that stay warm year-round and are among the most photographed natural hot springs in Australia. Tjuwaliyn (Douglas) Hot Springs, in its own dedicated park south of Darwin, offers a similar naturally heated bathing experience in a more remote bushland setting. Katherine Hot Springs, close to the town of Katherine, provides an easily accessible thermal pool for travellers passing through on the Stuart Highway. Nudie Hot Springs at Lorella Springs adds a remote station-based option for those exploring the Gulf Country further east. Most Northern Territory hot springs are natural, free to access, and best visited in the dry season when roads and tracks are reliably open.