Gunbower Island

Gunbower Island, a sprawling 200-square-kilometre gem on the Murray River, offers an off-the-grid escape into Australia's largest inland island. This floodplain wilderness, part of the Gunbower National Park and a Ramsar-listed wetland, teems with birdlife, red gums, and serene waterways. It's a haven for kayakers, campers, and wildlife enthusiasts seeking an authentic bush experience far from the crowds.

Highlights & What to See

• Paddle the Murray River backwaters – Kayak or canoe through silent billabongs and narrow channels, where you're likely to spot kangaroos drinking at the water's edge and azure kingfishers darting overhead.
• Birdwatching bonanza – The island is a vital breeding ground for waterbirds; look for straw-necked ibis, royal spoonbills, and the endangered superb parrot. Bring binoculars for the bird hides at Reedy Lagoon.
• Walk the Gunbower Forest Nature Trail – A short, easy loop through towering river red gums and black box trees, with interpretive signs explaining the floodplain ecology and Aboriginal cultural history.
• Camp under the stars – Basic campsites like Gunbower Creek Campground offer true solitude. Pitch a tent, light a fire (where permitted), and listen to the night chorus of frogs and owls.
• Spot koalas in the wild – The island supports a healthy koala population; scan the treetops along the forest drives, especially during cooler mornings.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least a full day to explore the island's core, but a weekend stay allows you to truly unwind. Arrive early to paddle the waterways before the heat sets in, then tackle the walking trails in the late afternoon. For the full experience, camp overnight – the starry skies and dawn chorus are worth the extra night. If you're passing through, a half-day stop is enough for a short walk and a picnic by the river.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Echuca – Just 30 minutes north, this historic port town on the Murray is home to the largest fleet of paddle steamers in Australia. Combine a day on the river with a visit to the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre.
• Koondrook – A charming village on the Murray's southern bank, with a historic bridge, a pub, and access to the Gunbower Creek walking trail.
• Torrumbarry Weir – A short drive west, this weir creates a large lake popular for fishing (Murray cod and golden perch) and water sports. The adjacent picnic area offers great views.
• Cohuna – A gateway town with the Cohuna Waterfront and the nearby Gunbower Creek, ideal for a coffee stop or a meal at the local bakery.
• Murray River National Park – Further downstream in South Australia, this park offers similar floodplain landscapes but with different bird species and walking trails.

Please check official sources for current details.