About this park
The 3.5km gorge cuts through Napier Range. It's hard to believe that this mountain range was once an ancient coral reef. In wet weather the Lennard River runs through the gorge, while in the dry season it forms pools surrounded by trees and shrubs. It may sound like a good place for a dip.... wrong! Don’t go reaching for your bathers, freshwater crocodiles bask in the pools.
There are a few walking trails to explore the area. You may see fruit bats and corellas roosting in the trees along the water's edge. Take a while to check out the marine life forms fossilised in the limestone of the gorge walls. They're fascinating!
The traditional owners of this area are Bunuba Aboriginal people. Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge) is a highly spiritual place for Bunuba people. The powerful Wandjina creation spirits reside in the area.
The park is open in the dry season only usually May to September. During the wet season the park is closed as roads are inaccessible.
Review – Fantastic!
What an interesting spot! We stayed at the campsite and the gorge is a short walk away. Easy access and beautiful rock formations. Hundreds of crocodiles lying in the sun...definitely NO swimming here. Adventure049 - Trip Advisor
Safety information
Plan when to visit. Read this safety information about bushwalking. Consider traveling with a personal location beacon (PLB). In the event you need to be rescued it could save your life!
When you are entering the Kimberley or Pilbara regions, you are entering crocodile country.
Two species of crocodile occur in Western Australia: the estuarine (or saltwater) crocodile and the freshwater crocodile. The estuarine crocodile is the largest living reptile and is considered to be a dangerous predator. Freshwater crocodiles are smaller and not as aggressive. Freshwater crocodiles inhabit Bandiln͟gan Windjana Gorge. Saltwater crocodiles have not been known to occur in the area but this may change.
Crocs are common, crocs move around and crocs are deadly so Be Crocwise. Download the Crocodile safety and myth busting fact sheet.
Pay attention to all warning signs, however just because a sign isn’t there doesn’t mean crocodiles aren’t present. If you are unsure don't swim, canoe or use small boats in estuaries, tidal rivers or pools and contact the nearest Parks and Wildlife office.
Mobile phone and internet - coverage is intermittent. Check with your service provider before you go.
Gallery
Activities
Bushwalking
Plants, wildlife and fungi
Visit the Atlas of Living Australia for a list of species recorded in Bandiln͟gan (Windjana Gorge) National Park.
Traditional Owners
Learn more about the Bunuba traditional owners and their culture.
