 There
is more to the park than the ancient palms, with over
333 plant species having been
recorded in the park, including the Wild Orange (Capparis mitchellii)
and the Native Fig (Ficus brachypoda).
Wildlife that have been seen in the park include dingoes, rock wallabies,
goanna, long-nosed dragon, kangaroos, snakes, and a number of desert frogs
species.
Although the park gorge usually appears dry, there are some small pockets of
semi-permanent spring-fed pools. If you are lucky to be there during one of
those wet periods, not only does it offer a wonderful sight to see the expanses
of
water
flowing through the valley gorge, you also increase the chances of seeing
some of the myriad aquatic life such as
desert
fish including the Spangled Grunter, shield shrimps (Triops australiensis),
tadpoles and frogs.
The park also includes part of the Finke River, carving a path southwards
through the surrounding desert ranges. The Finke lays claim to being one of the
oldest rivers in the world, with areas dating back 350 million years.
Many areas within the park region are culturally significant to the the
Western Arrernte Aboriginal people. The park also include evidence of early
European settlement of Central Australia.
The first white discoverer, J McDouall Stuart was so grateful to his generous
supporter, William Finke, that he named the river and surrounding area after
him. Although you can visit all year round, one of the best and most
popular time to visit is April to September, when it is cooler and there are
less files. During this period the campground on the river bank gets pretty
busy. There is room for tents and campervans and facilities include solar
(hot) showers, toilets and wood BBQs.
Source: NT Parks and Wildlife Service -
Finke Gorge National Park Check out the Northern Territory Parks and
Wildlife Services For additional information or contact the local visitor
centre: |
