On Day eleven we woke to another peaceful morning at the Florence Falls Old 4WD Campground, enjoying breakfast together before packing up for another day of exploring Litchfield National Park.
Our destination was Wangi Falls, one of the park's most iconic swimming spots. The impressive twin waterfalls plunge into a huge 100-metre-wide pool, making it an incredible place to spend a day in the water. We wasted no time swimming out to the falls, climbing across the surrounding rocks and leaping into the cool water below.
Donnie once again grabbed the snorkel to see what was hiding beneath the surface while the rest of us enjoyed exploring above the waterline.
One of our favourite discoveries was a small natural rock pool tucked between the two waterfalls. It offered a beautiful view looking back across the falls and quickly became our favourite place to relax between swims. Arriving early definitely paid off, allowing us to secure a great spot for our picnic blanket where we spent time reading, relaxing and soaking in the scenery before the crowds arrived.
More tourists buses were rolling in and we decided it was the perfect time to move on. Before leaving, we couldn't resist stopping by the fantastic cafe on site, treating ourselves to great coffee and some delicious locally made ice cream.
Back at camp, we settled in just in time to watch the Dolphins claim a great win over the Warriors, followed by the Cowboys pulling off an impressive upset against Penrith. One of the unexpected highlights of staying at the Old 4WD Campground has been the small flowing waterhole just 20 metres from our campsite.
It became our halftime retreat, providing the perfect place to cool off before returning to the football. It's little hidden gems like these that make Litchfield such a special place – it really feels as though no amount of time here is ever enough.
Chicken wings around the campfire rounded out another unforgettable day.
Day twelve, our final full day in Litchfield National Park began with an early breakfast before setting off to Buley Rockhole, just a short drive from camp. Buley Rockhole is a series of crystal-clear, spring-fed pools cascading down the hillside. Some are perfect for simply sitting back and enjoying the cool water, while others offer plenty of opportunities to jump in from the above rocks.
Knowing just how popular Buley's becomes later in the day, we arrived early and were lucky enough to secure a great spot for all six of us.
It’s easy to understand why Buley’s such a favourite with visitors. The clear water, natural rock formations and peaceful setting made it one of the highlights of our time in Litchfield. By around 10:30am, however, the crowds were beginning to arrive and with pool noodles in tow, so we happily made our way after enjoying the best of the morning.
On the way back towards Florence Falls, we stopped at the famous Magnetic Termite Mounds. Standing metres high and stretching across the open plains, these remarkable structures are more than just giant termite nests. They provide shelter for countless native animals during the harsh wet season and are an incredible example of nature's ingenuity and adaptation. While wandering through the area, we were also lucky enough to spot a beautiful Blue-winged Kookaburra perched atop one of the towering mounds.
In the afternoon we ventured back to Florence Falls, where we were entertained by Donnie, Harry, George and a collection of other Falls-goers jumping from the rocks. One jump from Hazza received quite a few OOOHs and AAAHs from the crowd – he undershot a front flip and backflopped.
After a wounded walk back to camp for Hazz he lit us a fire, where we all sat quite tired and enjoyed one last meal together before the young crew leave tomorrow. Not much rocking was required when going to bed.
Day thirteen was goodbye day.
An early start saw camp packed up quickly, with one final swim at Florence Falls planned before the kids began the journey home.
Eloise, Donnie and Leigh were first to make the 750-metre walk from the campground and were rewarded with the falls completely to themselves. Able to float beneath the cascading water, listen to nothing but the sounds of the falls and native wildlife, and soak in the peacefulness of one last swim in this remarkable place.
The serenity didn't last too long though. George soon arrived, followed by Hazza, both determined to have one final crack at jumping from the rocks after Harry's efforts the previous day. Donnie nailed his jump, but George wasn't quite as fortunate, overshooting his flip and producing a spectacular front flop. Thankfully, his only audience was us!
Together we sat on our favourite rocks, reflecting on what had been an incredible seven days spent together in one of Australia's most beautiful national parks. Florence Falls is a place we'll never forget.
Before long it was time for Harry, George, Eloise and Donnie to pack up and begin their journey home. Saying goodbye was somewhat sad, and the campground certainly felt a little quieter as they drove away.
There wasn't much time to dwell, though. With many more kilometres still ahead of us, it was time to hit the road once again and continue the next chapter of our adventure. We can't wait to share where the journey takes us next.