Murray River National Park

Stretching along the mighty Murray River, this national park is a serene escape into riverine wilderness, where red gums tower over the water and birdlife fills the air. It's a haven for kayakers, anglers, and wildlife enthusiasts, offering a quintessential outback river experience just a few hours from Sydney.

Highlights & What to See

• Paddle through the river red gum forests – Hire a canoe or kayak and glide through silent backwaters, past ancient trees and abundant birdlife.
• Spot kangaroos and emus – The park's open woodlands and riverbanks are prime habitat for eastern grey kangaroos and curious emus.
• Fish for Murray cod – Cast a line in the river's deep holes; this is one of the best spots in NSW to land the iconic native cod.
• Walk the Kookaburra Trail – A short, family-friendly loop through mallee scrub, perfect for birdwatching and wildflower spotting in spring.
• Camp under the stars – Basic campgrounds near the river offer a true back-to-nature experience, with the sound of the river as your lullaby.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least a full day to explore the park's core – paddle a section of the river, take a short walk, and enjoy a picnic. For a deeper experience, stay overnight at one of the campgrounds to catch the dawn chorus and evening wildlife activity. Two days allows you to explore both the river and the drier mallee habitats.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mungo National Park – Drive north to see the dramatic Walls of China and ancient Aboriginal history.
• Mildura – Head across the border for wineries, paddle steamers, and riverfront dining.
• Wentworth – Explore the confluence of the Murray and Darling rivers, with a historic lock and weir.
• Kinchega National Park – Discover historic sheep station ruins and abundant birdlife on the Darling River.
• Renmark – A charming river town with houseboat hire and citrus orchards.

Please check official sources for current details.