Chowilla Regional Reserve

On the South Australian side of the Murray River, just upstream from the Victorian border, Chowilla Regional Reserve is a vast, semi-arid floodplain wilderness that feels a world away from the river’s more developed stretches. This is a landscape of ancient red gums, winding anabranches and shimmering saltbush plains, where the Murray’s flow is slowed by a series of weirs and the only sounds are the calls of corellas and the splash of a pelican landing. It’s a place for self-sufficient travellers seeking solitude, birdlife and a raw, unpolished slice of outback river country.

Highlights & What to See

• Punkah Creek Circuit – A 12 km self-drive loop that takes you through riverine forest, past quiet lagoons and across open saltbush flats; excellent for spotting kangaroos, emus and wedge-tailed eagles.
• Chowilla Game Reserve – Adjacent to the regional reserve, this protected area is a haven for waterbirds, including black swans, ibis and the rare freckled duck.
• Murray River Red Gums – Some of the finest stands of ancient river red gums in the Murray-Darling basin, their gnarled trunks and sprawling canopies a photographer’s dream.
• Kayaking & Canoeing – The network of backwaters and creeks is perfect for quiet paddling; put in at Chowilla Landing and explore the calm side channels.
• Stargazing – With virtually no light pollution, the night sky here is spectacular – the Milky Way arcs overhead like a celestial highway.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors base themselves for two to three nights, which gives you time to explore the Punkah Creek loop, paddle a section of the backwaters, and simply sit by the river at sunset. Day-trippers from Renmark or Berri can manage a highlights visit, but the reserve rewards a slower pace. If you’re towing a boat or camper, allow extra time to fish for Murray cod or golden perch.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Renmark – The nearest service town (45 minutes west), with riverfront pubs, paddle-steamer cruises and the Renmark Irrigation Trust’s historic pumping station.
• Berri – A lively river town with a renowned farmers’ market, the Big Orange lookout and excellent houseboat hire.
• Murray River National Park – Just downstream, this park offers similar floodplain landscapes with well-marked walking trails and camping at Katarapko.
• Loxton – Known for its historic village and the Loxton Riverfront precinct, a pleasant stop for coffee and river views.
• Wentworth – Across the border in NSW, where the Darling meets the Murray, with the historic Wentworth Gaol and paddle-steamer displays.

Please check official sources for current details.