Ruby Gap Nature Park is a remote park located on the far eastern edge of the East MacDonnell Ranges.
Located 150 kilometres from Alice Springs, it was the site of Central Australia’s first mining rush in 1886 after ‘rubies’ were found in the riverbed.
Today, Ruby Gap is a popular place for camping and bushwalking. Much of the terrain is extremely rugged and is only suitable for the experienced and well prepared walker. Follow the riverbed and tracks upstream to Glen Annie Gorge.
In 1886 explorer David Lindsay found what he thought were rubies in the sandy bed of the Hale River. A rush ensued with buyers from Europe snapping them up. As the market was flooded, the quality of the rubies found was questioned and, 18 months into the rush, it was found that the gems were merely high-grade garnets. Central Australia’s ruby boom quickly collapsed.
Access to this little-visited and remote park is via the Arltunga Historical Reserve. A high clearance four-wheel drive vehicle is essential, but is well worth the effort to get here. There are several campgrounds in the park. Camping fees apply and campsites must be booked online before you arrive.
Pass information
If you're a visitor to the NT, you need an NT Parks Visitor Pass to visit most national parks and reserves. The pass allows you to visit all parks and reserves managed by the NT Government within your valid dates.
|
Price per:
|
1-day pass | 3-day pass | 2-week pass | 1-month pass | Annual pass |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult 18 years and over | $10 | $20 | $30 | $45 | $60 |
| Child 5 to 17 years | $5 | $10 | $15 | $22 | $30 |
| Family 2 adults and 4 children | $25 | $50 | $75 | $110 | $150 |
| Concession Holders of Australian Government issued Seniors Card, Pensioner Concession Card or DVA Card. | $8 | $16 | $24 | $36 | $48 |
NT residents don't need a visitor pass but may be asked to show proof of residency, such as a valid NT driver licence.
Buy your pass online or find out more about passes & permits in the NT.
Opening times
Open daily, 24 hours.
Entry cost
- Indicative Prices tickets from $10 to $60
Park entry fees - NT Parks Visitor Pass applies (NT residents exempt). Camping fees apply to all visitors. - Child tickets from $5 to $30
Park entry fees - Parks Pass applies (NT residents exempt). Camping fees apply to all visitors.
Facilities
- Carpark
Activities
- Four-wheel driving
- Camping
- Walks
- Hiking
/f/286255898790625/eb73ce1477/keep-in-touch.jpg)