Perry Sandhills

Rising unexpectedly from the flat Riverina plains, the Perry Sandhills are a striking 4000-year-old dune system of shifting red sand. This surreal landscape, once part of a prehistoric inland sea, feels more like the Sahara than rural New South Wales. The 60 hectares of pristine white and rust-coloured dunes are a playground for photographers, bushwalkers, and anyone seeking a quiet escape into a truly unique environment. The sandhills also hold archaeological significance, with Indigenous artefacts and megafauna fossils discovered here.

Highlights & What to See

• Sandboarding down the dunes – the main drawcard; bring a board or hire one locally for a thrilling slide down the steep slopes.
• Photography at golden hour – the light transforms the dunes into a rippling tapestry of red, orange and gold, with long shadows carving out dramatic patterns.
• Fossil & artefact spotting – keep your eyes peeled for ancient animal bones and stone tools, but remember it’s illegal to remove them.
• Walking the dune crests – a network of unmarked trails leads you across the ridges; the panoramic views of the Murray River floodplain are breathtaking.
• Stargazing after dark – far from city lights, the sandhills offer an incredible night sky, perfect for astronomy enthusiasts.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 1–2 hours exploring the dunes, especially if you plan to sandboard or hike to the highest points. For photographers, arriving an hour before sunset and staying until dusk is ideal. If you’re combining a visit with nearby wineries or the Murray River, a half-day trip from Mildura is ample. The site is open 24/7, so you can also come for sunrise or a moonlit walk.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mildura – the regional hub just 30 minutes away, with its riverfront dining, paddle steamers and citrus orchards.
• Murray River National Park – explore the red gum forests, wetlands and waterways by canoe or hiking trail.
• Wentworth – at the junction of the Murray and Darling Rivers, this historic town has a fascinating lock system and heritage buildings.
• Buronga – just across the Murray in NSW, offering the Australian Inland Botanic Gardens and a golf course.
• Mungo National Park – a 2-hour drive west, home to the famous Walls of China lunette and a World Heritage-listed cultural landscape.

Please check official sources for current details.