⚠️ Portages — approx. 5 total. One difficult portage near Moorundie Creek entrance (two trees across the creek). Four further portages where tracks and roads cross Portee Creek after Portee Homestead.
⚠️ Castles Landing — phone ahead required. Phone (08) 8540 5015 before visiting — no advance bookings. Pay at the farmhouse opposite the entrance gate to collect a key (~$12/night per car).
Barossa Hills Fleurieu Hospital
Gawler, SA — ~95 km south-west
📍 Directions →Castles Landing — Primary Launch
GPS: 34.3964 S; 139.6189 E. ~5 km along Blanchetown/Swan Reach Rd from highway (east side of bridge).
📍 Directions to launch →📌 GPS Waypoints
Launch
Castles Landing
34.3964 S 139.6189 E
Point A
Moorundie Creek
34.3970 S 139.6159 E
Point B
Pumphouse Reserve
34.5061 S 139.5694 E
Return
Murray River upstream
back to Castles Landing
🛥 Route Summary
- Launch → Point A — Moorundie Creek: From Castles Landing onto the Murray. Moorundie Creek entrance almost directly opposite the campground — identified by remains of a concrete weir. Difficult portage near entrance to skirt two trees across the creek.
- Moorundie Creek → Portee Creek — Past Portee Homestead: Creek flows through to Portee Creek past the historic Portee Homestead (1873). Four portages where tracks and roads cross the creek after the homestead.
- Portee Creek → Point B — Pumphouse Reserve: Portee Creek exits into the Murray River on the western bank. Reserve and basic camping downstream at Point B. Ideal overnight stop.
- Return — Murray River upstream to Castles Landing: Return leg follows the Murray River north, approximately 13 km upstream back to the launch site.
⚠️ Key Cautions
- Point A portage — most difficult: Two trees lying across Moorundie Creek near the entrance. Scout on foot before committing if needed.
- Four portages after Portee Homestead: Where tracks and roads cross the creek. Expect to exit the water multiple times through this section.
- Castles Landing access: Gated property. Must phone (08) 8540 5015 before visiting — no advance bookings. Collect key and pay at the farmhouse.
- Return upstream: The Murray River return is approximately 13 km paddling against a gentle current. Factor in additional effort and time, especially in high flow periods.
- Firewood at Point B: No facilities at Pumphouse Reserve. Bring your own firewood and observe seasonal fire restrictions.