Shady Camp

Shady Camp is a popular spot for anglers setting off onto the lower reaches of the Mary River. Located in Mary River National Park, the famous Shady Camp is located approximately 200km from Darwin and takes around 2 hours travelling by road when towing a boat or approximately 1 hour 40 minutes by car (4WD only during the wet). This picturesque area is surrounded by fresh water billabongs, paperbark and monsoon forests.

Most NT rivers average five crocodiles per kilometre, but in the Mary River that number climbs to nearly 15 saltwater crocodiles per kilometre. Climb the viewing platform at Shady Camp to look across the Mary River floodplain and you are bound to spot a croc, as well as some of the areas other abundant wildlife.

Take a fishing expedition during the ‘run-off’ between March and April each year, when the Mary River is teeming with the legendary barramundi. Birdwatchers can observe species from different habitats due to a barrage, which helps prevent tidal salt water entering the freshwater wetlands upstream.

Camping is permitted and fees apply. Shady Camp is well equipped with boat ramps, picnic areas and toilets.