About Mataranka Thermal Pool
Mataranka Thermal Pool is a natural thermal spring located in Elsey National Park near the town of Mataranka, about 107 km south of Katherine in the Northern Territory. Fed by Rainbow Spring at a constant 34°C, the clear, sandy-bottomed pool is fringed by palm forest and paperbarks. It is a popular swimming spot within the park, known for its warm, crystal-clear water and tranquil bush setting.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a clear, warm thermal pool with a sandy bottom set within dense Livistona palm forest and paperbark trees in Elsey National Park. A short paved walk leads from the car park to the pool area with timber decking and steps into the water. The pool is shallow to chest-deep, suitable for swimming and floating. Surrounds include picnic areas, lawns and walking tracks along the Roper River. The site is developed for day use with changing facilities and is often calm in the early morning.
Key highlights
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Natural thermal pool fed by Rainbow Spring at a constant 34°C
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Crystal-clear, sandy-bottomed water fringed by palm forest
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Located within Elsey National Park near Mataranka township
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Paved walking path and timber deck with steps into the pool
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Surrounding paperbark and palm forest with birdlife