16 Unique Gibb River Road Accommodations

Rich pickings await those who brave the 660 kilometres of mainly unsealed road that is affectionately known as “The Gibb".

Originally built to transport cattle from surrounding stations to the ports of Derby and Wyndham, the 4WD trail is the best way to discover the Kimberley’s rugged landscapes, cascading waterfalls and rich Aboriginal heritage. But where to rest amidst all this natural splendour? Here is our list of Gibb River Road accommodation, from campsites to station stays and glamping.

1. Drysdale River Station

Drysdale River Station is the last refuelling stop on your way to the magnificent Mitchell Falls. Whether you’re an adventurer keen on exploring nearby gorges or a birdwatcher eager to spot endemic species, Drysdale River Station serves as a convenient base.

With oodles of rustic charm and warm hospitality, it offers 40 campsites and 10 rooms, from small and basic cabins to larger spaces with queen beds and private bathrooms. The station also offers scenic flights, making it easier for you to delve into the area’s treasures.

2. APT Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge

A further 170 kilometres on from Drysdale River Station, nestled beside a billabong at Camp Creek you will find APT Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge . Offering 24 tented cabins, the lodge features a lounge, bar, library and natural waterhole with a swimming platform.

Guests can enjoy a three-course dinner and a hearty breakfast, making it a culinary highlight along the Gibb River Road. The lodge is accessible via the remote Kalumburu Road, offering a journey past breathtaking scenery and extraordinary Aboriginal art.

3. Windjana Gorge Campsite

Please note: Windjana Gorge Campsite is currently closed due to flood damage.

Located 144 kilometres east of Derby, Windjana Gorge Campground offers 50 campsites, plus there are bathrooms with showers. While the campsite is basic, it compensates with its proximity to the awe-inspiring Windjana Gorge, which runs for 3.5 kilometres through the Napier Range.

Popular among hikers and photographers, the campsite is an ideal spot for capturing the gorge’s towering limestone cliffs, tranquil pools and wildlife, such as fruit bats and freshwater crocodiles.

4. Munurru (King Edward River) Campground

When visiting Mitchell Falls, a handy place to stay is Munurru Campground , which is the first campground when you cross over the King Edward River. Managed by Traditional Owners, the Wunambal Gaambera people and their Uunguu Rangers, the 30-site campground provides an authentic cultural experience, complete with guided tours to nearby Wandjina and Gwion rock art.

a tent under the trees at Munurru Campground — Pitch your tent by the river at Munurru Campground. (Image: Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation)

Well-equipped with basic amenities like toilets and fire pits, Munurru will suit adventurers who are keen on fishing, swimming and relaxing by the river.

a river near Munurru Campground — Go fishing or relax and take in these scenic views. (Image: Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation)

5. Imintji Campground

Located near the stunning King Leopold Ranges, Imintji Campground offers 25 campsites and is well situated to explore nearby attractions like Bell Gorge, Tunnel Creek and Windjana Gorge.

People gather at the store at Imintji Campground — Find the necessities at Imintji Community Store.

Managed by the Ngarinyin Aboriginal people, the campground boasts a large camp kitchen, toilets and fire pits. Imintji Community Store sells fuel, basic staples, wi-fi and decent coffee.

the entrance to Imintji Campground, Kimberley — Embrace the rustic charm of wilderness camping at Imintji Campground. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

6. Balanggarra Home Valley

Located near the stunning Pentecost River, Balanggarra Home Valley boasts two campgrounds. If you want to be close to the action, the Homestead Camp offers powered and unpowered sites with easy access to Dusty’s Bar & Grill, the Station Store, laundry, bathrooms with hot showers, playground and lagoon pool. The Pentecost River Bush Camp is four kilometres away on the banks of the river with spectacular views of the Cockburn Range.

a couple dining by the side of the river at Home Valley Station — Leave the stresses of the modern world at Balanggarra Home Valley. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Take it up a notch and book into a Riverside Suite featuring a king-size bed, verandah with a daybed and floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors with a direct view over the water. Whether you’re interested in fishing, swimming, or simply relaxing by the river, Balanggarra Home Valley offers a peaceful retreat.

the in-house restaurant at Balanggarra Home Valley — Dine at the rustic, in-house restaurant. (Image: Balanggarra Aboriginal Corporation)

7. Ellenbrae Station

Situated five kilometres off the Gibb River Road and 230 kilometres from Kununurra, Ellenbrae Station offers bush campsites, homestead rooms and safari tents. Wash away the Gibb dust and soak in one of the open-air claw baths with a grazing platter at hand’s reach.

Outdoor bath tubs at Ellenbrae Station — Soak the red dust away in an outdoor bathtub.

The station also features a popular bakery, known for its delicious homemade scones, adding a touch of comfort to your wilderness adventure.

the entryway at Ellenbrae Station — Find bush campsites, homestead rooms and safari tents at Ellenbrae Station.

8. Silent Grove Campground

Located near Dalmanyi (Bell Gorge) in the Wunaamin Conservation Park, Silent Grove Campground offers 50 campsites. Managed by the Ngarinyin people, the campground features a generator area and a quiet (no generator) area, flush toilets, showers, picnic tables, benches and communal firepits.

The campground serves as a great base to explore the nearby Bell Gorge, offering a range of activities from hiking to swimming. With its natural beauty and serene atmosphere, Silent Grove Campground is an ideal spot for those looking to disconnect.

9. Mt Elizabeth Station Stay

First established in 1945 and located halfway between Kununurra and Derby, Mt Elizabeth Station offers 30 campsites and 10 homestead rooms with dinner and breakfast options available.

the exterior of Mt Elizabeth Station Stay — Stay for the night at Mt Elizabeth Station.

Visitors can explore the station by 4WD, hike, swim, fish, and visit exceptional rock art sites with an Aboriginal guided tour. Enjoy floating away at Warla Gorge with its white sandy ‘beaches’ along the riverbank or head out on a challenging 4WD track to Wunnamurra Gorge.

a couple sitting on the white-sand beach at Warla Gorge — Sit on the shore along the riverbank at Warla Gorge.

10. Mt Hart Lodge

Mt Hart Lodge is a wilderness oasis situated on the bank of the Barker River. Managed by the Ngarinyin Aboriginal people, the lodge offers safari tents with ensuites, deluxe tents and elegant homestead rooms, with rates including a hot breakfast and dinner.

It also features shady riverside camping facilities, and the area is particularly popular among birdwatchers and bushwalkers. Don’t miss a swim at Annie Creek Gorge or the Barker Pool, a short walk from the campground.

11. Birdwood Downs Station

Just 20 kilometres from Derby, Birdwood is a great place to relax before or after a Gibb River Road adventure. The station boasts shady bush camping for tents and caravans, plus several Savannah Huts with double beds and shared bathrooms.

the bedroom at Birdwood Downs Station — Birdwood Downs Station has all the necessary comforts.

Fill your Kimberley days with self-guided boab walks on the station or take a day trip to Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek.

Stay in a Savannah Hut at Birdwood Downs Station.

12. El Questro Homestead

If you’ve ever wanted to live like a celebrity, El Questro Homestead, located within the expansive El Questro Wilderness Park, is the place to do it. This 10-suite hideaway provides an array of high-end amenities, including deluxe double baths overlooking the Chamberlain Gorge, private thermal springs and gourmet dining.

But luxury doesn’t mean isolation from nature. The Homestead offers a range of activities, from helicopter tours to guided bushwalks, ensuring guests can fully engage with the surrounding landscapes. It’s a perfect blend of comfort and adventure, making it a must-visit for those looking to splurge.

an outdoor tub at El Questro Homestead during sunrise, Gibb River Road accommodation — Step outside for a soak in the tub. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

13. El Questro Station

A more budget-friendly option within the El Questro Wilderness Park, El Questro Station offers riverside bungalows and bush campsites.

an aerial view of the El Questro Wilderness Park, Gibb River Road accommodation — El Questro Wilderness Park is hidden within rainforests and by deep gorges. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

The Station is particularly popular among families and groups, offering a range of activities that cater to different interests and fitness levels. Whether you’re interested in fishing, hiking, or simply soaking in the thermal springs, El Questro Station provides a versatile and engaging experience.

a couple sitting outside their tent at El Questro Wilderness Park, Gibb River Road accommodation — Sip your morning coffee in the wilderness. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

14. El Questro Emma Gorge

A sister property to El Questro Homestead, Emma Gorge offers 60 tented cabins. Nestled in the heart of the wilderness park, the resort features a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort.

a tented cabin at Emma Gorge Resort, Gibb River Road accommodation — Emma Gorge Resort provides modern comfort and rustic charm.

Emma Gorge is popular among hikers, serving as the starting point for the trek to the stunning Emma Gorge waterfall. After a day of exploration, guests can unwind at the resort’s pool and restaurant, which offers a range of local and international cuisines.

15. Mornington Wilderness Camp

One to watch, Mornington Wilderness Camp is currently closed due to damage from ex-tropical cyclone Ellie. It’s owned and managed by the Australian Wildlife Conservancy and offers 40 campsites, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Annie Creek.

16. Ngauwudu Safari Camp

The most lavish tented camp facility in the Kimberley, Ngauwudu Safari Camp offers unparalleled luxury in the Top End. Stay in one of 14 chic ‘Safari Suites’ outfitted with stylish furnishings, ensuite bathrooms, and linen bedding. The tents blur the line between indoors and out with a wide veranda equipped with outdoor furniture for relaxing in nature with a tipple in hand.

From thundering waterfalls to ancient Indigenous art, Kimberley’s raw beauty will take your breath away.

Wild, pristine, and shaped by nature, the Kimberley Coast is one of Australia’s most spectacular landscapes. A remote and rugged frontier that remains a bucket list destination for many travellers. Its most breathtaking attractions – including Montgomery Reef, King George Falls and Horizontal Falls – are accessible only by sea or air, making a guided expedition cruise aboard Silversea’s luxury expedition ship, Silver Cloud, the ideal way to explore it.

From its intricate intertidal zones to ancient rock art, extreme tides and rare wildlife found nowhere else in Australia – or the world – this journey offers an unparalleled exploration of one of Earth’s last true wildernesses.

Why Silversea?

Silversea offers a 10-day expedition departing Broome, or an extended 16-day expedition voyage from Indonesia, including landings on the hidden gems of Palopo Sulawesi and Komodo. Accompanied by expert guides and specialists in marine biology, history and geology, guests gain a deeper understanding of the Kimberley’s dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage and extraordinary biodiversity.

Silversea offers one of the experiential travel industry’s leading crew-to-guest ratios. Along with all-suite accommodation (80 per cent with private verandah), 24-hour butler service, a swimming pool and four dining options. Silver Cloud also has an experienced crew of multilingual expedition guides and specialists in marine biology, history and geology to enhance your Kimberley Experience.

silversea cruise ship pool deck — Take a dip in the pool deck.

1. Koolama Bay

Before visitors see King George Falls, they hear them – a growing rumble in the distance, steady and foreboding as the Zodiac glides through the gorge, the sound echoing off sheer rock formations. At 80 meters tall, the twin cascades carve through the red cliffs, churning the waters below in a spectacular finale – but Koolama Bay holds secrets beyond its striking scenery.

Named after a ship that beached here following an aerial attack by Japanese bombers in World War II, the bay may seem desolate, yet it teems with life. With Silversea’s expert guides on their 10-day Kimberley itinerary, guests gain a sharper eye for its hidden wonders – rock wallabies darting across the cliffs, crocodiles lurking among dense green mangroves, and high above, the silhouette of a bird of prey circling the sky.

King George Falls at koolama bay excursion on Silversea Kimberley Cruise — Take a shore excursion to see King George Falls.

2. Freshwater Cove / Wijingarra Butt Butt

Connect with Country on a wet landing at Freshwater Cove, also known as Wijingarra Butt Butt. Considered one of the most special experiences on both the 16-day and 10-day Kimberley cruises, Silversea guests are welcomed by the traditional Indigenous custodians of the land, painted with traditional ochre, and invited to take part in a smoking ceremony.

Located on the mainland near Montgomery Reef, Wijingarra Butt Butt holds deep cultural significance to the local Indigenous community. Here, rock formations along the shore represent spiritual ancestors, and guests are guided to a nearby rock overhang filled with ancient art, where traditional owners share the stories and meaning behind these sacred paintings.

welcome to country on freshwater cove during silversea kimberley cruise — Take part in a smoking ceremony. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

3. Vansittart Bay (Jar Island)

Modern history, ancient culture and mystery converge in Vansittart Bay, which is also known as Jar Island. Here, the first thing to catch the eye is the dented, silver fuselage of a World War II-era C-53 plane – a striking relic of the past. Yet, the true cultural treasures lie just a short hike away where two distinct styles of Indigenous rock art – Gwion Gwion and Wandjina – can be found.

The Wandjina figures, deeply connected to Indigenous traditions, stand in stark contrast to the enigmatic Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) paintings, which date back more than 12,000 years. Significantly different in form and style, the two different styles create a striking juxtaposition, offering a rare glimpse into the region’s rich and complex past.

aerial view of Vansittart Bay, See it in you Silversea Kimberley Cruise. — Explore ancient Gwion Gwion rock art at Vansittart Bay. (Image: Janelle Lugge)

4. Horizontal Falls

Part illusion, part natural phenomenon, the Kimberley’s much-lauded Horizontal Falls aren’t a waterfall, but a tidal and geographic spectacle that visitors have to see to comprehend. Known as Garaanngaddim, the phenomenon occurs when seawater rushes through two narrow gaps- one just twenty metres wide, and the other seven metres in width, between the escarpments of Talbot Bay.

With each tidal shift, the force of the water creates whirlpools, furious currents and the illusion of a horizontal cascade as thousands of gallons of water are pushed and pulled in through the gap every six hours with relentless movement, making this one of the Kimberley ’s most mesmerising natural wonders.

Horizontal Falls are described as "One of the greatest wonders of the natural world". They are formed from a break in-between the McLarty Ranges reaching up to 25m in width. The natural phenomenon is created as seawater builds up faster on one side of the gaps than the other, creating a waterfall up to 5m high on a King tide. — Watch whirlpools and furious currents collide. (Image: Janelle Lugge)

5. Montgomery Reef

As the tide turns in Montgomery Reef, magic happens. With the Kimberley’s legendary tides varying up to ten metres, at low tide the submerged reef almost appears to rise from the depths: exposing up to four metres of the sandstone reef.

The impact is otherworldly: as the water drains, waterfalls cascade on either side of the channel, turtles left exposed scramble and dive, and fish leap in search of sanctuary in shallow pools. Meanwhile, the dinner bell rings for the migratory seabirds dugongs, reef sharks and dolphins that scavenge and feast in the area.

Using zodiacs, guests cruise through one of the world’s most significant inshore reef systems navigated by experienced guides, exploring the most intricate and fascinating parts of a 300-square-kilometre-wide biodiversity hotspot.

aerial view of boat going along Montgomery Reef — Witness seabirds, dolphins and reef sharks on the hunt.

6. Mitchell Falls by Helicopter

Experiencing the Kimberley by sea allows you to feel the power of the tides, but travelling by helicopter reveals the sandstone tapestry of the Kimberley, a landscape geologists believe is over 1.8 billion years old.

One of Silversea’s most popular optional excursions , guests who opt to fly into the interior from the onboard helipad soar up above the rust-coloured landscape of the Mitchell plateau, taking in one of Australia’s most scenic waterfalls: Mitchell Falls, a series of four emerald-coloured pools gently cascades into each other, before plunging down to the river below.

Seeing the landscape from above reveals a landscape weaved and shaped by the power of the freshwater wet season, juxtaposed to the constant lapping of the relentless and powerful tide on the coast.

aerial view of mitchell falls on silversea helicopter excursion — See emerald pools cascade into the river below. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

7. Indigenous Art Caves, Wandjina Art

The Kimberley Region of Western Australia is home to some of the most striking and significant

Indigenous rock art in Australia. Dotted throughout the landscape are caves, cliffs and rock overhangs depicting the striking, ethereal image of Wandjina, the rainmaker spirit and creation being central to many of the Dreamtime stories in this region.

Some of the paintings are regularly repainted by traditional custodians, while others are believed to be over 4,000 years old. Each artwork serves as both a cultural record and a living connection to the past, offering a rare opportunity to engage with the enduring traditions of the Kimberley’s Indigenous communities.

Freshwater Cover Rock Art the kimberleys — Walk among cultural records preserved in stone. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

See the best of this incredible part of the world on a Silversea Kimberley cruise. Book your 10- or extended 16-day expedition voyage at silversea.com

16 unique places to stay along the Gibb River Road