Djarradjin (Muirella Park)

Most people who visit Kakadu National Park know the big names – Jim Jim Falls, Ubirr, or Yellow Water Billabong. But in the quieter northwest corner of Kakadu is Djarradjin, also known as Muirella Park. It’s a place that flies under the radar, but if you want to experience the Top End’s wild serenity without the crowds, Djarradjin’s your ticket.
You’ll need to pack your patience, a decent 4WD and a head for mozzies. It’s remote, it’s rugged and the wet season will shut it down faster than you can say ‘road train’. But when the dry’s on, it’s a great spot for adventurous travellers who want to soak up nature, spot wildlife and experience Indigenous culture with real respect.
In this post I’ll run you through everything you need to know about Djarradjin – from getting there and what to expect to cultural insights and practical tips for your visit. So, boil the billy and let’s get stuck in.

History and Heart

Djarradjin is more than a name on a map — it’s sacred Country. The land is looked after by the Bininj/Mungguy people whose deep understanding of Indigenous land management is what keeps Kakadu alive. The old name Muirella Park still shows up on signs but more and more travellers are using the traditional name out of respect. You’ll see that respect in action — the patchwork of habitats, the seasonal burns, the birds. This isn’t just a stopover. It’s part of a living, breathing national park that’s been cared for for tens of thousands of years.

Wildlife and Billabong Wonders

Grab your camera and binoculars — Djarradjin is a birdlife haven with whistling kites and brolgas. The nearby Djarradjin Billabong is a quiet spot with water lilies, dragonflies and the odd croc so don’t get too tempted to dip your toes.

What you might see:

Egrets and jabirus skimming the shallows
Green tree frogs singing post-rain
Wallabies rustling through the dry grass
And of course, saltwater crocodiles are where you least expect them

Tip for wildlife spotters: Set your alarm early — the morning chorus is loud, proud and worth every bleary-eyed minute.

Bushwalks Birding and Beyond

You don’t need to clock 100km to find something to do. Djarradjin is a great base for day trips all over Kakadu — including 1 day Kakadu tours from Darwin.
Best of all, it wasn’t packed. Just a handful of other travellers were drifting quietly, all soaking up the calm. If you want that Kakadu feeling without the crowds, Red Lily Billabong will deliver.

Djarradjin Billabong Loop

This flat 6.5km loop is perfect for nature lovers who want a quieter track. You’ll walk around the billabong, see wallabies in the spinifex and if you’re lucky, a sea eagle overhead.

Rock Art and Escarpments at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie Rock)

Just 10 minutes up the road, this iconic site has ancient rock art, lookouts and stories tied to Dreaming Law. The late arvo light on the sandstone cliffs is magic.

Fishing Access

Djarradjin itself isn’t a swimming or fishing spot due to crocs but it’s a known billabong for boat fishers nearby. Chat to rangers about where and when it’s safe to launch — limited access applies and a boat ramp may not always be available during the wet.

Camping

If you want clean, shady spots with enough room to swing your swag or reverse your camper trailer — you’re in luck. Djarradjin Campground is a managed campsite with the basics.

Facilities:
Tent access, camper trailer access and motorbike access
Toilets (drop-style)* BBQs and fire pits (check restrictions)
Drinking water (tank fed — boil or treat)
Interpretive signage about local ecology and culture

No power, no phone signal and no fancy glamping tents — just bush, birds and mozzies (bring repellent). You’ll need a park pass and will be asked to pay camping fees onsite — cashless only.

If you’re comparing sites, nearby options like Burdulba camping or Sandy Billabong Camping offer similar bush experience with different access levels — check the park map and seasonal closures before you choose.

How to Get There

Djarradjin Sanctuary is just off the Kakadu Highway, 30km from Jabiru and Cooinda. It’s sealed all the way — 2WD in the dry, but wet season can change things quickly.

From Jabiru: 30 mins
From Cooinda: 35 mins
Closest fuel: Jabiru or Cooinda
Look for signs to Muirella Park or Djarradjin Campground

If you’re coming from Arnhem Corroboree Park Tavern or camping in from Sandy Billabong, double-check flood warnings and road conditions — it’s a long way back if you get turned around by a closed crossing.

Best Time to Visit

Planning your trip right means knowing the wet vs dry season game. Here’s the breakdown:

Dry Season (May to October) – Best bet

Cooler nights, manageable days
Good road conditions
Peak birdlife, easier access to day hikes

Wet Season (November to April) – Wild, wet and unpredictable

Road closures and campground shutdowns are possible
Boat ramp access varies — call ahead if fishing’s on the cards
The campground may flood — check the NT Parks alert system

Shoulder Months – Hot, sticky and croc-happy

Late October and early November can hit 38°C+
Mozzies, storms and extra wildlife activity
Still possible to visit, but bring patience (and cold beer)

Visitor Info: Know Before You Go

Here’s some trip planning advice to keep you bush-smart and stress-free:

No bookings — first-come, first-served
Camping gear must be self-contained (no shop onsite)
Bring extra drinking water, especially if travelling remote areas
Be croc-wise — no wading, no shoreline picnics, no worries
Awareness among visitors is critical — don’t feed wildlife, follow signage and respect cultural access rules

Djarradjin is a dialogue between visitors and Country — we’re not just observers; we’re participants. Travel light, tread carefully and leave no trace.