Owen Springs ReserveAttractions Redbank Waterhole Fauna Flora

The Redbank Waterhole at Owen Springs Reserve is one of the popular spots for those wanting to do a spot of camping. Camping is allowed between the signposts within Lawrence Gorge and near Redbank Waterhole (this is a temporary waterhole which will dry up if the river has not flowed for some time).

In addition it is one of the few parks and reserves to permit dogs, although this is only in the area south of the Waterhouse Range. Pets are required to be kept under control for the safety of other people and the local fauna.

Height of the flood water through the Hugh River, Redbank Waterhole
Height of the flood water through the Hugh River at Redbank Waterhole

After significant rain in the area, the Hugh River can be found flowing through the reserve, with some of the water ending up in waterholes along the river length, including Redbank Waterhole.

These waterholes do eventually dry up, unless there is more rainfall to replenish them.

Rain in the Central Australia region (early in the year 2022), saw a significant amount of water fill the normally dry rivers, with the water flowing southward.

So much water fell in the region that water overflowed river banks, sweeping everything before it, from sand, rocks, trees, shrubs and other debris.

In the image shown with the young river red gum, you can visualise how high the the river flowed. The tree itself was no more then 3 metres high, growing high on the river bank. The water hole was about 5 metres lower then where the tree was growing. You can see the debris of grass and other dried plants swept up against the main trunk of the tree. The highest grass debris reaching two metres up the tree.

This attractive stretches of river, with its broad sandy banks, are lined with shady River Red Gums (Eucalyptus camaldulensis).

These River Red Gums vary in size and ages, that provide a haven for many fauna, both birds, insects and reptiles.

Don’t forget to keep your eyes out for some of the wonderful flora to be found in the area including the Fork-leaved Corkwood, Long-leaved Corkwood, Poached Egg Daisy, White Paper Daisy and many more.

Height of the flood water through the Hugh River, Redbank Waterhole, Owen Springs, NT
Height of the flood water through the Hugh River, Redbank Waterhole

For further information check the NT Government Owen Springs Reserve fact sheet and map (see link below).

Redbank Waterhole, Owen Springs Reserve, NT
Redbank Waterhole, Owen Springs Reserve, NT © CK Leel
Redbank Waterhole, Owen Springs Reserve, NT
Redbank Waterhole, Owen Springs Reserve, NT © CK Leel

Owen Springs ReserveAttractions Redbank Waterhole Fauna Flora