Northern Territory parks and reserves attract over two million visitors

From May to September this year, the Northern Territory’s world-renowned parks and reserves attracted more than 2.2 million visitors. This compares to the same period in 2020 which saw 1.4 million visitors through the Territory’s parks and reserves, and around 2.2 million in 2019 and 2018 respectively.

Casuarina Coastal Reserve attracted the highest number of people, with around 687,700 visitors exploring the area. The George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens came in second, with around 248,800 visits.

Nitmiluk National Park saw around 201,000 people enjoy the likes of Leliyn (Edith Falls) and Nitmiluk Gorge, while the month of August saw the opening of 10 new Central Valley campsites, contributing to Litchfield National Park’s 168,000 visitors for the period.

In Central Australia, Karlu Karlu/Devil’s Marbles Conservation Reserve attracted the highest numbers of visits, with around 106,800 people.

The Territory Government recognises the importance and economic benefits of the Territory’s parks and reserves, and is developing a 30 year Masterplan.

Once finalised the Masterplan will provide a clear vision for the future of the Territory’s parks and reserves from 2022-2052. It will map out ways to enhance visitor enjoyment and community engagement, as well as exploring new business and economic activities.

Parks and Wildlife recently closed public submissions for the Masterplan which will help develop the draft Masterplan. The final Masterplan is on track to be published in November 2022.

Northern Territory Minister for Parks and Rangers Selena Uibo notes “whether it’s cruising out to Berry Springs for a day trip or kayaking up the Nitmiluk Gorge for a few nights of secluded camping, the adventures are endless when it comes to getting out and exploring the Territory.

“We know one of the biggest draw cards for travelling to the Territory is our pristine parks and reserves, and we want to ensure this remains the case for generations to come.

“This Masterplan builds upon a recommendation of the Territory Economic Reconstruction’s final report, and it will help activate our backyard and maximise new economic opportunities, whilst providing a clear pathway for the future management of Territory parks and reserves.”

Image: Casuarina Coastal Reserve courtesy nt.gov.au/leisure/parks-reserves/find-a-park/find-a-park-to-visit/casuarina-coastal-reserve