Photo: Bidgee / CC BY 3.0
The Murrumbidgee River Corridor is a serpentine ribbon of life that cuts through the heart of the Australian Capital Territory and into New South Wales. This lush, riparian landscape offers a serene escape from Canberra's urban grid, where the river's gentle flow and towering eucalypts create a haven for wildlife and walkers alike. It's a place where you can dip your toes in cool water, spot a platypus at dawn, or simply let the rhythm of the river reset your clock.
Highlights & What to See
- Kambah Pool: The most popular swimming hole, with a sandy beach and picnic tables. It's a great spot for a summer cool-down, but note that it's clothing-optional in parts.
- Point Hut Crossing: A quieter alternative for swimming and kayaking, with a grassy bank and easy river access.
- Murrumbidgee Discovery Track: A 12.5 km walking and cycling trail that winds from Kambah Pool to Pine Island, passing through river flats and rocky outcrops. Keep an eye out for kangaroos and wedge-tailed eagles.
- Pine Island Reserve: A family-friendly picnic area with barbecues, a playground, and a gentle river bend perfect for paddling.
- Casuarina Sands: A scenic spot with a small weir and deep pools, popular for fishing and birdwatching.
Suggested Time to Spend
Allow at least half a day to explore the corridor properly. If you're short on time, pick one or two spots like Kambah Pool and a short section of the Discovery Track. For a full immersion, start at Kambah Pool in the morning, walk or cycle to Pine Island for lunch, and then drive to Casuarina Sands for an afternoon swim. The corridor is also a fantastic add-on to a day trip from Canberra.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Canberra: The capital's museums, galleries, and dining scene are just a 20-minute drive away.
- Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve: A wildlife sanctuary with koalas, platypuses, and walking trails, located 30 minutes southwest.
- Namadgi National Park: For more rugged bushwalking and alpine scenery, head 40 minutes south into the Brindabella Ranges.
- Cotter River: A tributary of the Murrumbidgee with its own swimming holes and picnic spots, just 15 minutes from the corridor.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
Explore more
Image credits
- Canberra — The 3B's / CC BY 2.0
- Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve — Paul J. Morris / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Namadgi National Park — Dfrg.msc at English Wikipedia / Public domain
- Cotter River — Bidgee / CC BY-SA 3.0 au
- Brindabella Ranges — Dfrg.msc at English Wikipedia / Public domain
- Queanbeyan — Shkuru Afshar / CC BY-SA 4.0