Thousands of kilometres of pristine waterways — paddle the mighty Murray, meander quiet red-gum creeks, and camp beneath ochre cliffs alive with more than 300 species of waterbirds.
There is so much to do and explore in the Riverland. Hire a canoe or kayak, or bring your own, and gain unique access to thousands of kilometres of pristine waterways. Set your own pace and paddle the mighty Murray River, venture into wetlands and floodplain forests and along the many kilometres of quiet red-gum lined creeks.
The Riverland meanders for approximately 400 km through red sandy mallee dune landscapes, home to more than 300 species of waterbirds. The region contains three internationally recognised wetland sites — the Riverland Ramsar site, the Banrock Station Ramsar site, and the Riverland Biosphere Reserve — one of the largest remaining continuous stands of ancient mallee in the world. The Chowilla floodplain holds the largest remaining natural river red gum forest in the Lower Murray and is home to rare species including Murray cod, regent parrot and southern bell frog.
The region has been continuously inhabited for at least 29,000 years by the Ngaiawang, Ngawait and Erawirung peoples (collectively the Meru people), whose profound connection to the Murray is reflected across the landscape. Several trails pass through Murray River National Park — campsites must be pre-booked online. Check for closures during environmental flow periods when water levels may change.
Several Riverland trails pass through Loch Luna Game Reserve and Chowilla Game Reserve, which are open to hunters between approximately March and June each year. Avoid these areas during hunting season. Check current dates with the Department of Environment and Water (DEW) before visiting. Duck hunting season also runs designated dates March–June — check the National Parks SA website for details.
