Murrumbidgee River National Park

Flowing through the dry, open woodlands of the Riverina, Murrumbidgee River National Park is a serene ribbon of riverine life that offers a quintessential outback-meets-river escape. This narrow, linear park follows the Murrumbidgee River for over 50 kilometres, protecting ancient river red gums, sandy beaches, and a rich diversity of birdlife. It’s a place where the pace slows to the rhythm of the current – perfect for a quiet paddle, a riverside picnic, or a gentle bushwalk along the banks.

Highlights & What to See

• Paddling the Murrumbidgee: The river is the star here. Canoeing or kayaking along its meandering course is the best way to experience the park’s quiet beauty, with regular sightings of kangaroos, emus, and waterbirds.
• River Red Gum Forests: Towering, centuries-old river red gums line the banks, their gnarled branches creating a cathedral-like canopy. Look for hollows that shelter parrots, possums, and bats.
• Sandbars and Swimming Holes: During warmer months, the park’s sandy beaches and deep pools offer refreshing spots for a swim. Popular access points include Junction Park and Wagga Beach (just outside the park near Wagga Wagga).
• Birdwatching: Over 200 bird species have been recorded here, including yellow-billed spoonbills, white-bellied sea eagles, and the striking azure kingfisher. Bring binoculars and a field guide.
• Walking Tracks: The short Riverina Walk (1 km) and the longer Murrumbidgee River Trail (6 km one way) offer easy walking through riverine woodland, with interpretive signs about local ecology and Aboriginal heritage.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a half-day to a full day here, combining a paddle or swim with a leisurely walk and picnic. If you’re a keen kayaker or birdwatcher, consider an overnight stay at one of the basic campgrounds (no facilities, so come self-sufficient). The park is easily visited as a stopover on a drive between Sydney and Melbourne or as a day trip from Wagga Wagga (30 minutes away).

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wagga Wagga – The largest city in the Riverina, with a lively café scene, the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery, and the lovely Botanic Gardens.
• Narrandera – A historic riverside town with a charming main street, the Narrandera Fisheries Centre, and the nearby Fivebough Swamp for birdwatching.
• Coolamon – A heritage village with a restored railway station and the Coolamon Cheese Factory, perfect for a gourmet pitstop.
• The Rock – A small town at the base of a striking granite outcrop, popular for walking and panoramic views.
• Lake Talbot – A recreational lake in Narrandera with water sports, walking trails, and a water park for families.

Please check official sources for current details.