Shoalhaven River National Park

Flowing through a dramatic sandstone gorge, Shoalhaven River National Park feels like a secret carved into the New South Wales hinterland. This is a place of deep, coffee-coloured water, towering eucalypt forests and the kind of quiet that makes you hear your own heartbeat. It’s a favourite with canoeists, birdwatchers and anyone seeking a genuine escape from the coastal crowds.

Highlights & What to See

• Canoe the Shoalhaven River: Paddle along the calm, winding river between sheer cliffs and riverbanks thick with paperbarks and casuarinas. The water is perfect for beginners, and you’ll likely spot azure kingfishers and wedge-tailed eagles overhead.
• Bendeela Camping Area & Wombats: This grassy riverside spot is famous for its friendly, grazing wombats at dusk. Bring a torch and watch these chubby marsupials waddle right past your tent.
• Tallowa Dam & Kangaroo Valley Lookout: The dam marks the park’s southern boundary, and the lookout offers a sweeping panorama of the river valley. It’s a prime spot for sunrise photography.
• Walking Trails: The short Bendeela rainforest walk leads to a small waterfall, while longer options like the Yalwal fire trails wind through dry eucalypt forest and past Aboriginal scar trees.
• Fishing & Swimming: Drop a line for bass or perch, or cool off in the river’s deep, clear pools. The water is crisp and refreshing on a summer afternoon.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give yourself a full day to truly soak up the park’s serenity. A half-day is enough for a paddle and a short walk, but staying overnight at Bendeela adds a magical dusk wombat encounter. If you’re combining with Kangaroo Valley, plan two days: one for the park and one for the valley’s historic hamlet and Fitzroy Falls.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kangaroo Valley – Just 20 minutes south, this charming village has historic buildings, craft shops and the spectacular Fitzroy Falls.
• Berry – A foodie town with excellent bakeries, cheese shops and a bustling farmers’ market on weekends.
• Jervis Bay – About an hour east, home to Hyams Beach (famous for its white sand) and dolphin-watching cruises.
• Morton National Park – Adjacent to the north, offering the iconic Pigeon House Mountain walk and deep gorges.
• Shoalhaven Coast – Coastal villages like Huskisson and Vincentia provide swimming, kayaking and seafood dining.

Please check official sources for current details.