Where water cuts through rock
Danggu has been eons in the making. Over thousands of years, Bandaralngarri, the Fitzroy River, has carved its way through the Devonian Reef – an ancient limestone reef system. Stretching 15m high out of the riverbanks, the kaleidoscope of colours captured in the balili (limestone) are testament to the evolution of the reef and the seasonal transformation of the river. From the ancient reef-forming pink algae to the creamy flood line of the wet season flow, the shifting shades and hues brings the gorge to life before your eyes.
Danggu refers to a specific point along the river where the water pools deep below the gorge walls. This is the spiritual centre for the Danggu people, one of the muwayi (clan estates) of Bunuba. The name Danggu can be translated as ‘the living water at the white rock’ or ‘where water cuts through rock.’
During Maurri and Barrangga, seasons of little rain, the deep springs of Danggu provide a vital water source for muwayi (country). Birds and animals are drawn to the gorge in search of water and food. Durramin (white bellied sea-eagles), birrin birrin (rainbow bee-eaters), dirrarri (red tailed black cockatoos) are all regular visitors to Danggu. Wanyjirri (agile wallabies) are commonly spotted moving along the banks, much to the interest of our ever-vigilant gayi (freshwater crocodiles)!
The National Park was first established here in the late 1960s and became a co-managed estate in 2017. However, the 2023 flood had a devastating impact on Danggu. Most of the land where the Park and its infrastructure once sat was completely demolished. In the violent flood waters we lost the walking trails, the Ranger camp, the gazebo that was our visitors hub, our boat ramp, river access and even roads and carparks were all swept away. It was only in late 2024 that the Park was reopened for public access. We are still in the process of reimaging how we will work within this space to recreate a visitor experience at Danggu. It will take years for the area and our interactions with it to resettle and find its new rhythm. But we still welcome you to come and visit. There is still an incredible view of the gorge, and there is a sense of peace that embraces all visitors.
All we ask is that you take care when visiting the Park, as it is still in its early stages of rehabilitation. Please follow all signs and instructions and keep up to date with any Park alerts or other information provided by DBCA.
Temperatures in Danggu can easily exceed 40C and it is recommended that you visit during the cooler times of the day. Carry adequate water - at least 1L of water per person for each hour that you visit. Hats, long sleeves and sunscreen are strongly recommended.
There is no water available in the Park or seating facilities at this time. There are public toilets for use. The Park is for day use only, there is no camping in the National or Conservation Park. The nearest camping and accommodation is within Fitzroy Crossing
