Murray Valley National Park

Stretching along the mighty Murray River on the border of New South Wales and Victoria, Murray Valley National Park is a serene waterworld of red-gum forests, lagoons, and wetlands. This is a place where the river is the main character, offering peaceful paddling, birdwatching, and fishing amid towering eucalypts. It's a haven for wildlife – kangaroos, emus, and over 200 bird species call it home. For self-drive travellers, this park is a perfect detour into Australia's river country, with accessible camping and walking trails that put you right at the heart of the floodplain ecosystem.

Highlights & What to See

• Paddle the Murray River – Canoe or kayak along still, tea-coloured water flanked by ancient red gums. Launch at several points; the stretch near Tocumwal is especially scenic.
• Birds on the billabongs – The park is a birdwatching hotspot. Look for white-bellied sea-eagles, spoonbills, and the threatened superb parrot around the wetlands and lagoons.
• Walking trails through river red gums – The Gully Walking Track (2.5 km loop) and Pig Gully Walking Track (5 km) wind through magnificent old-growth forest, with chances to spot kangaroos and wallabies.
• Camping under the stars – Basic campgrounds like Bunnaloo and Oolambeyan offer riverside sites with fire pits – perfect for soaking up the quiet bush atmosphere.
• Fishing on the Murray – Cast a line for Murray cod and golden perch. The riverbanks are dotted with good fishing spots; just check local regulations.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give yourself at least a full day to explore the park properly. A morning paddle followed by a picnic lunch and an afternoon walk is a perfect rhythm. If you're camping, two days allow you to truly unwind – watch the sunset over the river, stargaze, and wake to bird calls. The park isn't vast, but the slow pace of river life encourages lingering. From nearby towns like Deniliquin or Tocumwal, it's an easy half-day trip if you're passing through.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Deniliquin – A historic river town with a strong agricultural heritage, known for its Deniliquin Ute Muster and the Edward River.
• Tocumwal – A charming border town with a great café scene, heritage buildings, and a famous swimming beach on the Murray.
• Moulamein – Australia's oldest inland river port, where the Edward and Billabong creeks meet – rich in paddle-steamer history.
• Barmah National Park – Across the river in Victoria, this park protects the world's largest river red gum forest and offers more walking and paddling.
• Jerilderie – A small town with Ned Kelly lore and a lovely heritage walk.

Please check official sources for current details.