Point Hut Crossing

Point Hut Crossing offers a serene escape just south of Canberra, where the Murrumbidgee River meanders through bushland and open paddocks. This is a beloved local spot for swimming, kayaking, and riverside picnics, with a laid-back vibe that feels a world away from the capital. The crossing itself is a low-level causeway, and the surrounding reserve is dotted with shady gums, making it an ideal place to cool off on a hot summer day.

Highlights & What to See

• Swimming and cooling off: The river at Point Hut is wide and slow-moving, with a sandy bottom in places – perfect for a gentle dip. The causeway creates a natural pool that is popular with families.
• Kayaking and canoeing: Launch a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from the grassy bank and explore the Murrumbidgee upstream, where you'll find quiet bends and birdlife.
• Picnicking by the river: Several picnic tables and barbecues are scattered under the trees. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch with the sound of the river flowing over the crossing.
• Walking and birdwatching: Short walking trails follow the river and through the adjacent woodland. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, water dragons, and a variety of waterbirds.
• Fishing: Cast a line for Murray cod and golden perch (check local regulations and licences). The deep pools near the crossing are a favourite spot.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a half-day at Point Hut Crossing – enough time for a swim, a picnic, and a short walk. If you're after a longer outing, bring a kayak or plan to stay for the afternoon. It's also a great spot to break up a drive south from Canberra into the countryside. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to avoid the heat and crowds on weekends.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Canberra – Australia's capital is just 20 minutes north, offering world-class museums, galleries, and dining in a planned garden-city setting.
• Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve – A short drive west, this reserve is home to kangaroos, koalas, and platypuses, with excellent walking trails through bushland and wetlands.
• Namadgi National Park – For more serious hiking and alpine scenery, head south into the mountains of this vast park, which protects the northern end of the Australian Alps.
• Murrumbidgee River Corridor – Explore other swimming and picnic spots along the river, such as Kambah Pool or Pine Island, each with its own character.
• Tharwa Village – A historic riverside village with a general store and the old Tharwa Bridge, a good place for a coffee or to learn about local history.

Please check official sources for current details.