Pentecost River: Iconic Free Camping on the Gibb
Some places leave such an impression that you can’t help but return. For The Hanger Tribe, Pentecost River free camp on the Gibb River Road is one of those rare spots. They first camped here last year and loved it so much they made their way back this dry season — drawn again to the wild beauty of the Kimberley, the simplicity of free camping, and that unbeatable feeling of being completely off-grid.
Why This Spot?
There’s a reason the Pentecost River has become a rite of passage for travellers tackling the Gibb. Camping right on the riverbank with the ranges in view feels like stepping into a postcard — wide skies, starry nights, and the rawness of nature all around you. For The Hanger Tribe, it’s the freedom of pulling up at a free camp, switching off, and knowing this is exactly what adventure is all about.
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (May to October) is the sweet spot. The Hanger Tribe visited in August, but if they came again, they’d arrive earlier in the season when the rivers run higher and the crowds are fewer. The Kimberley shifts with the seasons — from cooler, crisp mornings at the start of the dry season to hotter days and busier tracks as the months roll on. Come at the right time and you’ll catch the rivers full and the landscape at its most inviting. But beware as once the wet season arrives later in the year, many tracks become inaccessible.
Trip Highlights
Steph’s highlight was one for the memory books — catching her first-ever barramundi on the river. It’s the kind of moment that makes a trip unforgettable. Just down the road, the family also explored Emma Gorge, a walk they rate as one of their all-time favourites. Framed by soaring red cliffs and lush green ferns, the track leads to a dramatic gorge pool that feels like stepping into another world. Between fishing, walking, and slow camp days by the river, this trip was as rich as the Kimberley landscape itself.
Tips for Future Travellers
Pentecost River camping is as wild as it gets, which is part of its charm. But that means coming prepared. Bring everything you need — food, water, fuel — and always leave no trace. The family recommend being “croc wise”: do your research before you arrive, talk to the kids about safety, and set clear boundaries at camp. Stay well back from the water’s edge, supervise pets and children, and remember swimming isn’t an option here. A little preparation means everyone can enjoy the adventure safely.
What to Pack
This is true self-sufficient camping. A good setup makes all the difference, and the Hanger Tribe never travel without their muk mat to keep the Kimberley dust and grit out of their camper. Add in reliable shade, camp cooking gear, and a sense of adventure, and you’ll be ready for life on the Gibb.
Kid & Pet Friendly?
Yes — with caution. Families and four-legged travellers often stop here, but crocodile awareness is key. By setting expectations early, you can relax and still enjoy the magic of riverside camping.
Final Thoughts
For The Hanger Tribe, Pentecost River isn’t just another stop on the Gibb, it’s a place they’ll always carry with them. The kind of camp that makes you feel small in the best way possible, surrounded by rugged landscapes that remind you how lucky we are to explore them. It’s wild, beautiful, and worth every dusty kilometre.
Get the Same Mats as The Hanger Tribe
