Charles Darwin National Park - Darwin CBD and Suburbs
Direct Phone Number : (08) 8999 4555
Return to Darwin CBD and Suburbs
Lying on Frances Bay, Darwin, Charles Darwin National Park protects part of the Port Darwin wetland, one of Australia's most significant wetlands, as well as important local woodlands. The wetland is large (48 square kilometres) and diverse, including 36 of the Northern Territory's 51 mangrove species. Although new, Charles Darwin National Park has lots of history. Shell middens in the area indicate that it has been used by Aboriginal people for thousands of years. The Larrakia people are the traditional Aboriginal owners of the land.
During World War II, this area was part of a network of military sites that formed Australia's front line of defence, and as a result there are many bunkers and storage facilities remaining. One of these bunkers holds a fascinating display of memorabilia from World War II, and the lookout platform at the picnic area provides excellent views of Darwin Harbour and its wetlands.