Gibb River Road: 4WD Gorges, Camps and Permits

The Gibb River Road is the outback adventure that fuels campfire stories for years. Stretching across the heart of Western Australia’s Kimberley, this legendary track links Derby in the west with Kununurra and Wyndham in the east. Think red-dirt horizons, crystal-clear rock pools, boab-dotted savannah, and rugged ranges that glow at sunset. For adventurous travelers with a reliable 4WD, the Gibb delivers waterfall swims, epic gorge hikes, welcoming station stays, and star-filled camp nights.

This guide shares everything you need to plan and book your Gibb River Road journey. You will find the best gorges, the most-loved campgrounds, what permits and passes you need, and how to travel safely and responsibly. Whether you have five days or two weeks, you will discover how to build a trip that fits your pace.

Quick Facts and Trip Snapshot

• Distance: About 660 kilometers between Derby and the Great Northern Highway near Kununurra. Extra mileage for detours, gorges, and side trips.
• Vehicle: High clearance 4WD is strongly recommended. Off-road campers and caravans are suitable when built for corrugations and creek crossings.
• Best time: Dry season, typically May to September. Early season flows are at their best, late season tends to be warmer and dustier.
• Road conditions: Primarily unsealed. Expect corrugations, bulldust, rocks, and multiple water crossings depending on the month.
• Fuel and supplies: Limited along the route. Common stops include Derby, Imintji, Mount Barnett Roadhouse, Drysdale River Station on the Kalumburu Road side trip, El Questro, and Kununurra.
• Connectivity: Patchy mobile coverage. Telstra works in a few spots only. Carry a UHF radio and consider a satellite phone or PLB.
• Permits: No permit for driving the Gibb itself. You will need a WA Parks Pass for national parks, specific permits for certain Aboriginal lands and the Mitchell Plateau, and entry or day-use fees at stations and private gorges.
• Wildlife and water: Freshwater crocs are common, saltwater crocs may be present in lower systems. Swim only where it is clearly signed as safe.

When to Go: Seasons and Weather

The Gibb River Road opens and closes with the Kimberley seasons. Heavy Wet season rainfall from about late October to April can flood crossings and cut access. Road authorities assess conditions and open the track when it is safe, often around May.

• Early Dry (May to early June): Rivers are flowing strongly, waterfalls are thundering, and the landscape is fresh and green. Some side tracks may still be soft or closed. Water crossings can be deeper.
• Mid Dry (June to August): Cooler nights, warmer days, and stable conditions. Most attractions are open, campground bookings are in high demand.
• Late Dry (September to early October): Hotter afternoons, lower water levels, more dust, and heavier corrugations. Good for quieter camps, but plan for heat and carry extra water.

Always check current conditions close to departure. Openings for Mornington Wildlife Sanctuary, Home Valley Station, and other private attractions can vary by season.

4WD Essentials and Road Conditions

The Gibb rewards knowledge and preparation. Drive to the conditions, protect your tyres, and respect river crossings.

• Tyre pressures: Lower pressures improve traction and reduce corrugation shock. Adjust to your vehicle and load, then drive gently, and reinflate when back on sealed roads.
• Spares and repairs: Carry two spares, a plug kit, compressor, basic tool kit, and a jack suited to gravel shoulders. A puncture kit often saves the day.
• Water crossings: Walk crossings only if safe to do so. Check depth and entry and exit lines. Cross in low gear at a steady pace to create a bow wave. Do not follow closely behind another vehicle.
• Corrugations and bulldust: Reduce speed. Corrugations fatigue vehicles. Inspect mounts, wiring, and shocks at camp. Bulldust holes can be deeper than they look.
• Towing: Use a true off-road caravan or camper trailer only. Secure loads, fit quality suspension, and check couplings and brakes daily.
• Wildlife and cattle: Animals feed near roads at dawn and dusk. Reduce speed and use additional lights where legal and appropriate.
• Recovery and comms: A snatch strap, rated shackles, shovel, traction boards, UHF radio, and ideally a satellite communicator provide peace of mind.

Gorges and Highlights from West to East

The Gibb is lined with red-rock canyons, natural pools, and towering ranges. Here are the showcase stops, traveling west to east. Always verify current access, opening dates, and fee arrangements before you go.

Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek

• Windjana Gorge: A majestic slice through the Napier Range with fossil-studded walls and freshwater crocodiles basking on sandbanks. Best for sunrise or late afternoon walks when light softens and wildlife emerges.
• Tunnel Creek: A torchlit walk through a limestone tunnel with knee-deep water in sections. Wear reef shoes, carry a headlamp, and pack a dry bag for cameras.

Note: These two sit off the Gibb on the Fairfield–Leopold Road. They are commonly included on a Gibb itinerary that starts from Derby. National park entry and camping fees apply at Windjana. Tunnel Creek is day use only.

Lennard Gorge

A short but rocky 4WD track leads to a rewarding walk and a cliff-top view of a long plunge pool. Tracks here can be rough early in the season. Swimming access may be challenging and is not always advised.

Bell Gorge and Silent Grove

Bell Gorge is a traveler favorite, with cascading falls pouring into a deep amphitheater of water. Access from Silent Grove campground via a scenic hike. Plan to spend a half day to swim, sun, and explore. Silent Grove offers shady campsites and is a great base in this section of the Gibb.

Adcock Gorge

A short 4WD track reveals a lovely, smaller gorge with ferns, a rock pool, and a waterfall early in the season. Road in can be rough, which keeps crowds down. Pack a picnic and take your time.

Galvans Gorge

One of the easiest and most photogenic stops on the Gibb, with a short walk to a perfectly framed pool beneath a bell-shaped fall. Boab trees and Aboriginal rock art add to the sense of place. Safe, shallow edges suit families, with care.

Manning Gorge and Mount Barnett

Manning Gorge is a top-tier swimming and hiking spot with a big, cool pool and a cascade after the walk in. You access it from the Manning Gorge campground near Mount Barnett Roadhouse. The classic crossing by small boat or float is part of the fun. Expect a hot walk in the middle of the day. Early starts are best.

Mount Barnett Roadhouse is a key fuel and supplies stop. Day-use fees and camping fees apply for Manning Gorge.

Barnett River Gorge

A quieter, more remote feeling gorge near a rough track turn-off. The scenery is superb, with layered rock and long pools. It requires cautious driving and navigation. Check local advice before attempting.

Charnley River Station

Privately managed wilderness with self-drive tracks to lesser-known gorges and pools. Birdlife and quiet camps are the reward. Bookings are recommended. Tracks open and close with conditions.

Mornington Wildlife Sanctuary

Managed by Australian Wildlife Conservancy, Mornington is a prize of the central Kimberley. Dimond Gorge and Sir John Gorge feature towering sandstone, canoeing, and serene swimming spots. The access track is long and corrugated, which helps preserve the peaceful atmosphere. Book in advance and allow two nights if possible.

Ellenbrae Station

A beloved stop for Kimberley scones, shady lawns, and rustic charm. Short walks to pretty waterholes, basic camping, and a welcome break from the corrugations. Facilities are simple, hospitality is warm.

Durack River and Lookouts

Multiple river crossings and viewpoints offer photography stops. The Durack and Pentecost crossings are iconic moments on the drive. Always assess water levels and choose your line carefully.

Home Valley Station and the Cockburn Range

If open for the season, Home Valley offers campsites near the Pentecost River with unforgettable Cockburn Range sunsets. Horse riding, fishing, and 4WD tracks can be available. Seasonal operations vary, so check ahead.

El Questro Wilderness Park

A crown jewel on the east end, El Questro blends rugged gorges with resort comforts. Highlights include:

• Emma Gorge: A cool amphitheater with a high, fine waterfall and a deep pool.
• Zebedee Springs: Thermal springs in a palm-filled oasis. Often open mornings only.
• El Questro Gorge: A boulder-hop adventure to a shaded pool with a small cascade.
• Champagne Springs: A longer walk rewarded by sweeping views and refreshing pools.

El Questro charges an entry or visitor pass for day use, with separate camping or accommodation fees.

Optional Side Trip: Mitchell Plateau and Mitchell Falls

From the Gibb, a side trip up the Kalumburu Road and Port Warrender Road leads to the Mitchell Plateau. The reward is Punamii-Uunpuu (Mitchell Falls), a multi-tiered powerhouse of water. The track is remote and rough, especially early in the season. Camp at the Mitchell Falls campground and hike to the falls, or book a scenic helicopter flight. You need the Uunguu Visitor Pass from the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners, and camping fees apply. Many travelers allow three extra days for this side trip.

Camping on the Gibb: Where to Stay

Accommodation on the Gibb ranges from national park campgrounds to station stays and wilderness bush camps. Bookings are essential in peak periods.

National Park Campgrounds

• Windjana Gorge Campground: Shady sites, basic facilities, easy access to the gorge walk. Book through Parkstay WA when required by the season.
• Silent Grove Campground (Bell Gorge access): Good facilities as a base for Bell Gorge. Often busy, but the location is excellent.
• Manning Gorge Campground: Operated near Mount Barnett. A spacious campground on the river, perfect for a cooling swim at day’s end.

National park campgrounds usually offer basic toilets, some with showers, and often require online booking. Bring cash or a card for fee stations if online is not available, although many parks now operate on pre-bookings.

Station Stays and Private Campgrounds

• Charnley River Station: Quiet sites and access to private gorges. Book ahead.
• Mornington Wildlife Sanctuary: Well-spaced sites, a homestead area with meals at times, and excellent gorge access. Bookings are essential.
• Ellenbrae Station: Rustic sites with lawns and a homely vibe. Famous scones.
• Home Valley Station: If operating, offers riverside camps and sometimes rooms, plus activities.
• El Questro: Multiple camping zones and accommodation levels, from riverside unpowered sites to tented cabins and resort rooms.

Station stays often have communal fire pits, hot showers, and sometimes a bar or bistro. Day-use fees may apply for access to station gorges even if you are not camping.

Bush Camping Etiquette

Free camping is restricted and often not allowed within certain distances of station infrastructure, Aboriginal communities, or private property. Use designated campsites, pack out all rubbish, minimize fire use, and leave no trace. Respect cultural sites and avoid camping near water sources used by cattle and wildlife.

Permits and Passes You Might Need

Understanding permits and fees keeps your trip smooth and respectful.

• WA Parks Pass: Required for entry to national parks such as Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek. Buy a holiday pass if you plan multiple parks. Camping fees are separate and often require online booking.
• Station and private access fees: Many stations and roadhouses charge day-use or access fees for their gorges. Pay at the homestead, roadhouse, or online as directed.
• El Questro Visitor Pass: Required for day access to gorges within the park, separate from camping or accommodation costs.
• Uunguu Visitor Pass (Mitchell Plateau): Mandatory for Punamii-Uunpuu (Mitchell Falls) and other Wunambal Gaambera country, purchased before travel. Camping fees at the Mitchell Falls campground are additional.
• Aboriginal land transit permits: Some side roads and community access tracks require specific permits. If you plan to visit communities or travel off the main Gibb and Kalumburu corridors, check with the relevant land councils before you go.
• Fishing and boating: If you plan to fish tidal waters, be aware of bag limits, closed seasons, and any local restrictions. Freshwater and tidal systems differ in rules.

Always carry proof of permits and passes. Keep digital copies and paper backups.

Safety, Wildlife, and Swimming

The Kimberley is beautiful but demands respect. A few clear habits make a big difference.

• Crocodile safety: Saltwater crocodiles can occur in tidal rivers and some lower gorges. Freshwater crocodiles are common and usually shy, but give them space. Only swim where local signage or operators indicate it is safe. Never swim after rain or when water is murky. Keep at least 5 meters from the water’s edge if unsure.
• Heat and hydration: Carry and drink more water than you think you need. Start hikes early, rest at midday, and wear sun protection.
• Walking and rock hopping: Wear grippy shoes. Rocks can be slick with algae. A compact first-aid kit and a pressure immobilization bandage are smart additions.
• Fires and fuel: Observe fire bans. Use established fire pits. Never leave fires unattended.
• Driving fatigue: Distances are deceptive on corrugations. Swap drivers, rest often, and avoid dusk and night driving where possible.
• Communications: UHF for convoy driving and road etiquette, plus a PLB or satellite communicator for emergencies. Share your itinerary with someone at home.

Fuel, Food, Water, and Supplies

The Gibb rewards those who plan resupply points. Prices are higher and availability fluctuates, so be flexible.

• Fuel: Common fuel stops include Derby, Imintji, Mount Barnett Roadhouse, Drysdale River Station on the Kalumburu Road, El Questro, and Kununurra. Home Valley may have fuel when open. Always confirm current availability and opening hours as these can change throughout the season.
• Water: Carry at least 5 liters per person per day for drinking, plus allowance for cooking and washing. Many campgrounds have water, but potability varies. Treat or boil if in doubt.
• Food: Stock up in the larger towns at either end. Roadhouses sell basics, snacks, ice, and sometimes fresh bread, but choices are limited. Mornington, El Questro, and some stations have dining options for guests.
• Rubbish: Services are limited. Pack it in, pack it out. Use designated disposal points when available.

Tip: Keep a flexible meal plan and a sealed storage system. Corrugations are tough on packaging. Double-bag flour and sugar to avoid a dusty pantry.

Suggested Gibb River Road Itineraries

Choose a pace that matches your style. These sample itineraries help you shape days and distances.

5-Day Express Adventure

For travelers with limited time who still want the top hits and classic swims.

1. Day 1: Derby to Windjana Gorge, explore Windjana in the afternoon, sunset walk. Camp at Windjana.
2. Day 2: Tunnel Creek in the morning, then drive to Silent Grove. Bell Gorge swim and relax. Camp at Silent Grove.
3. Day 3: Galvans Gorge and Adcock Gorge as short stops, then push on to Manning Gorge. Camp at Manning Gorge campground.
4. Day 4: Morning hike and swim at Manning Gorge, continue to Ellenbrae for a mid-afternoon break. Overnight at Home Valley if open, or continue to El Questro.
5. Day 5: El Questro highlights. Choose Emma Gorge in the morning and Zebedee Springs late morning. Finish in Kununurra.

7 to 10-Day Classic Gibb

More time for morning swims, late afternoon light, and station hospitality.

1. Day 1: Derby to Windjana Gorge. Camp at Windjana.
2. Day 2: Tunnel Creek, then Lennard or Bell Gorge. Camp at Silent Grove.
3. Day 3: Morning at Bell Gorge. Afternoon visit to Galvans Gorge. Camp at Mount Barnett or Manning Gorge.
4. Day 4: Full morning at Manning Gorge. Option to detour to Barnett River Gorge. Camp at Mount Barnett or continue to Charnley River Station.
5. Day 5: Charnley River Station gorges. Camp at Charnley or push to Mornington.
6. Day 6: Mornington Wildlife Sanctuary. Dimond Gorge or Sir John Gorge. Camp at Mornington.
7. Day 7: Travel to Ellenbrae, then on to Home Valley if operating. Sunset at the Pentecost River. Camp at Home Valley or nearby.
8. Day 8: El Questro. Emma Gorge, Zebedee Springs, and an afternoon at El Questro Gorge. Camp at El Questro.
9. Day 9: Extra El Questro day for Champagne Springs or a boat cruise on the Chamberlain Gorge when offered.
10. Day 10: Drive to Kununurra for a well-earned cafe breakfast and supplies.

12 to 14-Day Ultimate Gibb with Mitchell Falls

Includes the Mitchell Plateau side trip for Punamii-Uunpuu.

1. Day 1 to 3: Follow Days 1 to 3 above.
2. Day 4: Manning Gorge morning. Drive to the Kalumburu Road junction and stay at Drysdale River Station.
3. Day 5: Drive to the Mitchell Falls campground. Set up and take a short walk or book a late day scenic flight if available.
4. Day 6: Hike to the Mitchell Falls, swim where allowed, and return by foot or scenic helicopter transfer. Camp again at the falls.
5. Day 7: Return to Drysdale River Station or head back to the Gibb.
6. Day 8 to 12: Continue with Mornington, Ellenbrae, Home Valley, and El Questro as above, adding rest days if you enjoy longer walks and swims.
7. Day 13 to 14: Extra day at El Questro or around Kununurra for lake cruises and local markets.

Distances and drive times vary with conditions. Always factor in more time than your mapping app suggests.

Packing Checklist and Vehicle Prep

A compact but thoughtful kit creates a safer, more comfortable trip.

• Documents: Driver’s license, vehicle insurance, WA Parks Pass, Uunguu Visitor Pass if applicable, station bookings, and printed confirmations.
• Navigation: Paper maps, offline maps on your phone, and a compass. A GPS unit is helpful but not essential if you prepare well.
• Safety and comms: UHF radio, satellite communicator or PLB, first aid kit, snake bandage, headlamps, spare batteries, fire extinguisher.
• Recovery gear: Rated snatch strap, shackles, shovel, tyre deflator, compressor, jack plate, traction boards.
• Spares: Two spare tyres, puncture repair kit, belts and hoses specific to your vehicle, fuses, fluids, cable ties, and duct tape.
• Camping: Four-season rated swag or tent, sleeping bags, insulated mats, shade awning, lightweight chairs, table.
• Kitchen: Two-burner stove, gas or fuel, cookware, utensils, sharp knife, cutting board, washing-up kit, biodegradable soap.
• Water and food: Drinking water storage, water purification method, pantry staples, high-energy snacks, fruit and veg that keep well.
• Clothing: Quick-dry layers, sun shirt, hat, swimwear, warm layer for nights, sturdy hiking shoes, reef shoes for creek crossings.
• Extras: Dry bags, camera protection, insect repellent, sunscreen, small repair kit for glasses or sunglasses, microfibre towels, rubbish bags.

Before you depart, service your 4WD, check wheel bearings and suspension, secure drawers and fridges, and make sure your towing setup is well within your vehicle’s rated limits.

Responsible Travel and Cultural Respect

The Kimberley is home to Traditional Owners whose Country you are privileged to visit. Show respect and help protect fragile environments.

• Stay on formed tracks. Off-track driving damages country and can be illegal.
• Do not enter communities without permission and correct permits.
• Observe alcohol restrictions in declared communities and dry areas.
• Take photos of rock art only where permitted. Never touch or wet rock art.
• Leave gates as you find them. Give stock and wildlife space.
• Keep noise down in camp and generators to limited hours if allowed.
• Pack it in, pack it out. Micro rubbish like bottle tops and cable ties matter.

How to Book and Check Current Conditions

Conditions and operating dates change through each season. Use these checkpoints before and during your trip:

• Main Roads road conditions for the Gibb, Kalumburu Road, and access tracks.
• Shire of Derby/West Kimberley and Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley for local road updates.
• Parks and Wildlife service alerts for national park closures and fire conditions.
• Station Facebook pages or official websites for opening dates, fuel availability, and fees at places like Mornington, Charnley River, Home Valley, and Ellenbrae.
• El Questro for visitor pass details, campground bookings, and gorge access times.
• Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation for Uunguu Visitor Pass requirements and seasonal notes for the Mitchell Plateau.

If your plans are flexible, you can adjust on the road based on current water levels, track conditions, and what your fellow travelers are loving. A friendly chat at a roadhouse often yields the best up-to-date tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need a 4WD for the Gibb River Road? Yes, a high clearance 4WD is strongly recommended. Conditions include corrugations, rocks, and water crossings. A soft-roader may be possible in rare late-season windows if conditions are excellent, but it will limit your access and increase risk.

• Can I tow a caravan? Many travelers tow off-road caravans and camper trailers built for rough tracks. Reduce speed, drop tyre pressures, and check your rig constantly for vibration damage. On some side tracks, trailers are prohibited or not advised.

• Are dogs allowed? Pets are not allowed in national parks. Some station stays accept dogs on leads. Plan your nights and walks accordingly.

• Can I light campfires? Often, yes, in designated fire pits and when there is no fire ban. Bring your own firewood and never collect from the ground in parks. Check local restrictions daily.

• Is the water safe to drink? Use known potable sources, boil or treat creek and tank water, and carry ample reserves. Heat and activity levels increase your daily water needs.

• Where can I swim safely? Swim only where signs or local advice confirm it is safe, such as some pools at Bell Gorge, Manning Gorge, and Emma Gorge. Conditions change, so ask at roadhouses and ranger stations.

• How long should I allow for the Gibb River Road? A classic crossing with the main gorges takes 7 to 10 days. Add at least four more days for Mornington and the Mitchell Plateau. Fast crossings are possible in 4 to 5 days, but you will spend more time driving than exploring.

• What tyre type is best? Light truck construction all-terrain tyres with strong sidewalls are preferred. Fresh rubber reduces puncture risk. Carry two spares.

• Is fuel available everywhere? No. Fuel stops are limited and may be cashless or have variable hours. Plan to refuel whenever you can and carry a safe reserve if your range is marginal.

A Sample West-to-East Day Plan

To help with mental maps and pacing, here is a typical flow many travelers enjoy. Always adapt to current conditions and your team’s energy.

• Start at Derby with full tanks, fresh produce, and permits sorted.
• Windjana Gorge first, then Tunnel Creek, and onward to Bell Gorge via Silent Grove.
• Enjoy the trio of Adcock, Galvans, and Manning Gorge around Mount Barnett.
• Add a quieter day at Charnley River Station or commit to the Mornington side trip for canoeing and serene rivers.
• Roll on to Ellenbrae for scones, then set up around Home Valley if open.
• Time your Pentecost River crossing for lower light and a memorable photo with the Cockburn Range as your backdrop.
• Conclude with a playday or two at El Questro before the comforts of Kununurra.

The Sales Pitch You Can Believe In

The Gibb River Road is not just a drive. It is a string of swims you will daydream about all summer, a series of silent sunsets that reset your pulse, and the kind of wild beauty that changes how you look at maps. With a capable 4WD, smart permits in your pocket, and a flexible plan, you will spend your days exploring sandstone cathedrals and your nights under a Milky Way that seems close enough to touch.

Book your key camps and passes early, service your vehicle, and give yourself enough time to stop for the unexpected. The Kimberley rewards those who travel prepared and linger in the right places.

Conclusion: Make Your Gibb River Road Dream Real

From Windjana’s freshwater crocs to the Pentecost River at sunset, the Gibb River Road is the Kimberley at its purest. Plan for the Dry season window, secure your national park passes and any Aboriginal land permits, and book sought-after stations like Mornington and El Questro ahead of time. Build a route that balances driving with time on foot in the gorges. Respect Country, drive to conditions, and swim only where it is safe.

Do this, and you will return home with dust on your boots, sun on your skin, and a camera full of red-rock horizons and clear, cool pools. The Gibb is waiting. Your campsite under the boabs is closer than you think.