Last Updated on 1 August 2026 by Rob
If you are looking for an authentic “slice of the Territory” that trades the resort feel for genuine outback hospitality, Little Roper Stock Camp in Mataranka is an unmissable stop. Located just 1.4 km from the famous Mataranka Thermal Pools, this quirky farm stay is run by local legends Des and Telka, who have created a sanctuary where the spirit of the stockman is very much alive.
There is no need to be self-contained as toilet and shower facilities are provided.
Pets are permitted at this campground.
Tents are permitted.
Fires are permitted.
Little Roper Stock Camp Quick Facts
| Campground Name | Little Roper Stock Camp |
|---|---|
| Nearest Town | Mataranka |
| GPS | 14°55'30.42"S 133° 7'9.43"E |
| Access Road | Sealed |
| Number of sites | Unsure |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Water | Non-potable |
| Dump point | No |
| Power | Yes |
| Pets | Yes |
| Tents | Yes |
| Fires permitted | Yes |
| Telstra coverage | Weak |
| Optus coverage | No |
| Cost | $40 per night powered, $30 unpowered |
| Booking | N/A |
Campground Layout and Features
Little Roper Stock Camp has a selection of powered and unpowered sites. The powered sites also have a water connection available and has a good amount of shade.
The unpowered section provides a bit more space and a lot more shade.
The area is fairly flat and a bit dusty.
There is a very rustic toilet and shower block. Also provided is a laundry if you need it.
There is a communal area with a fire and a nearby play area for the kids.
As expected in such a facility, rubbish bins are provided.
There are farm animals at this location. There are feeding times that you may attend. This is great entertainment for the kids.
The hosts also make meals available. Don’t miss the Johny Cakes.
The cost for two adults on an unpowered site is $30 a night, and a powered site is $40 a night. Extra adults are $19 each. Sites are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. You must arrive before 5pm. No bookings are taken.
Little Roper Stock Camp Location
Little Roper Stock Camp is a 7.5km drive from Mataranka and 1.4 km from the Mataranka Thermal Pool. The map below shows the campground’s location. You can zoom out for a more general location.
What to Watch Out For at Little Roper Stock Camp
The campground is a bit run-down. The amenities are old and could do with an upgrade. There were, however, clean and well-stocked with toilet paper.
The site is let down by the amount of discarded machinery around the camp. If you have young children, you will need to keep an eye on them.
As mentioned, much of the unpowered section is among the trees. If you need solar, you may struggle to stay for long. We moved to a powered site for this reason.
As is normal in this area, be mindful of crocodiles. Do not swim here.
Final Words
Despite our concerns about this site, we enjoyed our stay.
If you wish to go to the thermal pools, do it early in the morning when there are fewer people. Under the right conditions, evaporation from warm water generating a magical mist.
If you go to Bitter Springs a noodle or other flotation device is recommended as it is deeper and you float with the current before walking back to the starting position.
In 2025, Bitter Springs were closed twice due to the presence of a crocodile.
We use this campground in our NT Savannah Way Itinerary.
Closeby Campgrounds
If you are heading toward Darwin, you should visit Katherine Farm Stay.
For those seeking adventure and heading off along the Savannah Way, Towns River Campground is a great option.
