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Irene R

Amazing oasis but at a cost

4.0 of 5 bubblesReviewed 1 Aug 2019
Two couples staying in the self contained cabins in July. The road in was not nearly as bad as we expected and took only 5 hours from Roper Bar.

For those who moan remember It is a magic part of the world and people need to take into consideration this remoteness and that it is ever changing depending on when the grader last went through which determines the state of the road and when it last rained which determines the state of water holes. We went to Nannies retreat which was just magic and otherwise just enjoyed 4 days to take a break from driving, to pat the animals, swim in the warm spring near the campground and otherwise soak up the atmosphere. For those who complain about the cost, yes it is expensive but remember they only have 7 months to make 12 months living and everything needs to be trucked in. If you can’t afford it be as self contained as possible. Bring your own food and alcohol.
The only reason I didn’t give 5 stars is I felt some charges were unfair. $10 for a load of washing, then find out it doesn’t include the washing powder and over hearing a couple who had just spent $900 on a helicopter flight be refused a cup of instant powdered coffee while waiting because it wasn’t for campers. Also once we had confirmed our booking our emails didn’t get replied to dispite twice chasing them up.
Date of stay: July 2019
Room Tip: Come self contained to keep down the costs
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
4.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
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28 - 33 of 127 reviews
Reviewed 30 July 2019 via mobile

We needed to stay on site . The rooms are small but in a nice spot. The area is beautiful lots of fresh water to swim in and some great walks and sunset vistas. They were mustering while we were there so some cattle mustering action. The staff spent a lot of time helping campers and directing then to numerous sites. This is a family affair with many long term volunteers on staff. The biggest disappointment was the food we ate all our meals there which were basic in ingredients and preparation. It was the toughest meat I have eaten for a long time and expensive

Date of stay: July 2019
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
2  Thank Mark W
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed 28 July 2019

A great place to stay and camp (2 days is minimum stay demanded). Toilet and shower facilities in campground are a bit spartan and rustic but should/could be "tarted up" a little.
A great place to go day trip 4 wheel driving arriving at some great little waterholes and viewing areas. Longer trips are possible using the road system--free camping at it's best.
Bar happy hour was unfortunately not very well patronised during our stay and could be made more appealing with cheaper prices and maybe some nibbles.

Date of stay: June 2019
  • Trip type: Travelled as a couple
    • Rooms
    • Cleanliness
    • Service
Thank 569wg
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed 22 July 2019 via mobile

We camped with our 6 & 16 yr old children and it cost us $66/night to camp!!! Sadly with the poor wet season, many of the “magical” rock holes and waterfalls were dried up so whilst the 4WD adventures were fun, we were still disappointed.... especially when we got the bill on checkout. 4 ice creams cost us $25! I understand it’s remote and one expects to pay more BUT many other remote places weren’t this inflated.

Date of stay: July 2019
Trip type: Travelled with family
Thank Lisa S
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Peter L, Dad at Lorella Springs Wilderness Park, responded to this reviewResponded 28 July 2019

Dear Ambassador303131.
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Thank you so much for your honest review of 1 Million Acre Lorella Springs Wilderness Park.
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It is through reviews such as yours that only people that are looking for the unique opportunity that Lorella offers, find what they are looking for, and others find preferred alternatives.
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There are many areas along the Savannah Way that may be used for free overnight stops, if that is all that people are looking for.
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We emphasise to all who contact or research us that Lorella's ONE MILLION ACRES is a DESTINATION, not an overnight stopping off spot. There is so much to see and do.
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We highly suggest that people come here for a minimum of 1 week, or 1 month. (***smiles*** with excellent discounts, if they do.)
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Lorella is larger than many Countries in the World ... and probably the most remote and inaccessible area in Australia. ... But that is what those who come should be looking for.
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As most know, the whole off the Northern Territory had a below average Wet Season. ... However Lorella faired extremely well.
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Not only does Lorella have hundreds of Kilometres of full rivers, creeks and billabongs ... but also numerous perpetual crystal clear thermal and cold water springs that never stop running or dry out. These springs offer wonderful safe swimming, all year around. At the office, everyone is shown where is good and where is unsuitable for their adventures.
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As I said previously, Lorella is probably the most remote and inaccessible place in Australia ... and our prices have to reflect the massive cost of bringing supplies in and keeping the whole place open. Many people who have travelled extensively tell us that we are far below what they expected to pay for where we are and what we provide.
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Even the cost of keeping the 1,000 km of tracks open on 1 million acres is mind boggling.
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In no way can Lorella price-wise compete with a "Big 4" caravan park on a couple acres of ground, on the edge of a town. Or with a super market. But people who come here should expect that and most do welcome the effort that we go to in order to give them convenience.
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We often joke that Lorella is the cheapest camping per square foot in Australia.
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Anyway, once again, I thank you for your honest review of Lorella and hope that this helps others know if Lorella is for them.
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Best Regards and Safe Travels.
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Pete.



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Reviewed 19 July 2019

Lorella is a stunning place to stay. Amazing billabongs and hot and cold waterholes. You can drive alll the way to the gulf 'waterfront' - yea it's 4WD but that is whom it is there for. Stunning scenery and fishing down the Rosie River. Great campsites - Lorella has a million acres with dozens of places to camp. Owners Marie and Rhett and very helpful as were Leslie, Tristan and everyone else. We have been there twice, each time spending over a week and I'd go back tomorrow. Plan to stay a few days and pack appropriate supplies and fuel. Like most remote outback places Lorella has reasonable 'emergency supplies' and does cooked evening meals - but there ain't a Woolies down the road. I almost want to avoid telling people about Lorella it is so, so good! See you at Lorella next year :)

Date of stay: June 2019
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Thank Rob A
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed 17 July 2019 via mobile

My wife and I were fortunate to be able to stay with Rhett and Marie and all the team at Lorella Springs.
After two weeks on the road we opted for a delightful air conditioned cabin for 4 nights.
We were able to set off each morning and check out the water holes and significant natural features that Lorella has to option.
On our last day we took a magnificent helicopter adventure with
Nick from Northern Helicopter Charter.
Nick is not just a skilful Helicopter Pilot, but a fabulous intelligent and highly educated man.
Nick flew us to one of his secret isolated water holes, landing the chopper on a narrow rock escarpment measuring no more than 3x 3 metres.
We enjoyed a peaceful swim while nick boiled the billy.
Absolutely outstanding.

Date of stay: July 2019
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Thank sargeparker
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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