Part of a series of waterfalls, Middle Springs, also known as Mayiba Springs, is located in the Ngamoowalem Conservation Reserve in Western Australia. As one of eight waterfalls, visitors can scramble up the rocks to reach the next pool and view all of the cascades.
The Middle Springs sits at the end of all the waterfalls and it is the most visited pool in the conservation reserve. Typically accessible by 4WD vehicles only, the springs are a remote destination. However, even though they may be difficult to get to, they can get crowded because the spring is a favorite swimming spot for locals.
With plenty of pools in the area, visitors can enjoy exploring the stunning gorges and waterfalls of the East Kimberley Wilderness in Western Australia.
Natural Spring-Fed Pools at Mayiba
Part of what makes Middle Springs so spectacular is the dramatic rock backdrop that towers above the pool. With a small cascade trickling down from the rocks, visitors can bathe and swim in the pool that sits at the base of the waterfall. Surrounding the pool the vibrant green foliage only adds to the beauty of the area.
Although the backside of the pool features a steep rocky cliff, the pool is very easy to access from the front where there is a large sandy bank. Gently sloping into the pool, the sandy bank ensures that everyone can easily wade in and out of the pool or simply lounge in the sun by the water.
Typically, the pool isn’t too deep. The deepest part of the pool is at the base of the waterfall where depths can reach up to your chest and neck. Water temperatures tend to fluctuate from ambient temperature to warm. The water depth and flow will also fluctuate throughout the year.
Usually, there is always a pool at the base of the waterfall, year-round. However, the main pool can sometimes dry up to create a few smaller pools. From May to October (dry season), the waterfalls are often nothing more than a trickle.
To see the waterfalls, the best time to visit the springs is during the wet season, which begins in November and lasts until April. This is also the time when there will be deep pools of water both above and below the waterfall at Middle Springs.
Even if the pools and waterfalls are dry, Middle Springs is a popular hiking destination. People can take trails along the pools and waterfalls up to the top of the rocks to get an amazing view of the valley below. Visitors are also welcome to picnic at the springs, though there are no facilities in the area.
There is a parking area right next to the springs, but there are no toilets, changing rooms, picnic tables, or barbeque pits. Visitors may sit on the grass along the banks of the pool or along the rocks. Any trash that is brought into the area will need to be transported out.
Nearby Lodging
This section contains referral links. If you click through and take action, we may receive a commission, at no additional cost to you.
The Ngamoowalem Conservation Reserve, where Middle Springs is located, is very remote. There are currently no accommodation options for visitors to stay overnight by the springs or in the conservation park. Camping overnight is not permitted.
The best place for visitors to stay in the area is in the town of Kununurra, which is about 35 minutes away from the springs. It’s a fairly large town, so tourists will have the option of staying in hotels, motels, and holiday parks.
A few of the best accommodation options in Kununurra are the Kimberleyland Waterfront Holiday Park, Discovery Parks – Lake Kununurra, The Kimberley Grande Hotel, and the Kimberley Croc Motel.
Both the Kimberleyland Waterfront Holiday Park and Discovery Parks – Lake Kununurra are situated right on the water. They are kid and family-friendly with villas and cabins that can fit up to 6 people. With plenty of on-site activities and excellent locations, guests can easily enjoy the lake or head into town for more entertainment.
One of the most luxurious properties in Kununurra is The Kimberley Grande Hotel. Stylish and modern, this abode has multiple on-site dining options, an outdoor pool, and spa facilities. The hotel is less than one mile from the center of Kununurra and its various attractions.
More affordable is the Kimberley Croc Motel. With multiple individual units, guests can rent a room for singles, couples, or entire families. Facilities at the property include a sun terrace, a shared kitchen, free private parking, and an outdoor pool.
Getting There
Middle Springs (Mayiba) is located 20.6 miles (33.2km) outside of Kununurra, Western Australia. Situated within the greater Kimberley Wilderness, the springs are a remote destination that will require 4WD to access. Visitors should note that the road to get to the springs is very sandy. It’s not safe for 2WD vehicles to make the journey.
Another swimming hole in the Kununurra region is Molly Springs, also known as Galjiba. It’s located 40 kilometers to the southwest, which is about a 40+ minute drive.
Details
Address: Ngamoowalem Conservation Reserve, Kununurra WA 6743, Australia
Coordinates: -15.6337603, 128.6674661
Season: Year-round (spring best visited November-April)
Age Restrictions: None
Clothing: Required
Pets: Not permitted
Entry: Free
Rocky Pool – Kalamunda NP, Piesse Brook, WA, Australia