About this place
What to expect
Birthday Waterhole is a semi-permanent pool on the Hugh River in the Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park. It’s also an access point for Sections 4 and 5 of the 231 kilometre Larapinta Trail that extends from Alice Springs to Mt Sonder. Large River Red Gums fringe Birthday Waterhole, which is an important ecological site. Waterbirds are attracted to the waterhole because of its large populations of desert rainbowfish, frogs and aquatic invertebrates. Camping is permitted and access is by high-clearance four-wheel drive only. Birthday Waterhole is 14.4 kilometres from the turn-off on Namatjira Drive. Allow 1 hour driving time. There are no facilities at Birthday Waterhole so ensure you have all of your water and camping requirements with you. Camping fees apply and campsites must be booked online before you arrive.