4 Murray River National Parks Accessible from Adelaide

The Murray River has been carving its way through the Australian landscape for literally millions of years, creating a world of hidden wetlands and wildlife-filled waterways along the way. And beyond the familiar river towns that have settled over the years, you’ll find some absolutely incredible national parks with a true wild side. In this article, we uncover four totally unique Murray River national parks within reach of Adelaide that deserve a spot on your next wilderness road trip.

Discovering Australia’s Most Iconic River

Flowing for more than 2,500 kilometres from the Australian Alps to the Southern Ocean, the Murray River is Australia’s longest river and one of its most significant natural landmarks. Formed over millions of years, it has shaped vast floodplains and towering limestone cliffs, as well as winding wetlands and thriving red gum forests, creating an ecosystem unlike anywhere else in the country (and the world!).

For tens of thousands of years, the river has also been central to the lives, culture and traditions of First Nations peoples, who continue to care for Country along its banks today.

In 2026, the Murray remains one of Australia’s most treasured destinations. A trip to its banks can really involve everything from peaceful riverfront camping and wildlife encounters to kayaking, hiking and scenic lookouts. So whether you’re visiting in South Australia or into Victoria, you’re guaranteed remarkable landscapes and unforgettable experiences. The best part? Many of the Murray River’s national parks are located within six hours of Adelaide, so a roadtrip to follow it from SA all, the way to Victoria is absolutely do-able.

Next, we share four Murray River national parks that showcase the incredible diversity and beauty of Australia’s greatest river.

1. Murray River National Park — South Australia

Distance from Adelaide:  about 240 km (3 hours)

Top things to do:

• Canoe through Katarapko’s waterways
• Camp beside the Murray River
• Spot birdlife along the wetlands

Spread across three distinct areas, Lyrup Flats, Bulyong and Katarapko, Murray River National Park protects some of the most beautiful stretches of the Riverland in South Australia. This is a place of peaceful and unvisited backwaters, featuring towering river red gums and hidden lagoons where the pace slows down. It’s truly magical!

Katarapko is the standout for visitors, with a maze of creeks and channels perfect for paddling, while the park’s wetlands provide habitat for hundreds of bird species.

But for the best overall and most thorough experience, take a trip with Murray River Trails and see the Riverland up close. From Renmark to Headings Cliff, Chowilla Creek and further, you’ll witness everything this enchanting national park has to offer.

Nearby hotels

Need a place to stay nearby?

Try Par Five Shacks for a stylish and immersive stay in the heart of the Riverland, Berri Hotel for a modern stay with a pool and all the amenities, or Big River Golf & Country Club for great pizzas and a golf course just to top off the stay!

2. Coorong National Park — South Australia

Distance from Adelaide: about 150 km (2 hours)

Top things to do:

• Explore the lagoon and wetlands
• Watch thousands of migratory birds
• Visit the southern beaches and sand dunes

Where the Murray River finally meets the Southern Ocean lies one of Australia’s most extraordinary wetland landscapes. Coorong National Park protects a vast system of saltwater lagoons, incredible dunes and coastal wilderness stretching along the coast east of the river mouth.

The park is a place of dramatic contrasts. You’ll find windswept beaches facing the Southern Ocean but also calm lagoons filled with birdlife. Coorong National Park holds deep cultural significance for the Ngarrindjeri people, who have cared for this landscape for thousands of years and with a visit you’ll get a glimpse into the truly ancient and fragile ecosystem.

Trust Spirit of the Coorong with your visit and learn not only about the local Aboriginal history but visit renowned local spots and learn about the unique ecosystems of the region.

3. Murray-Sunset National Park — Victoria

Distance from Adelaide: about 520 km (6 hours)

Top things to do:

• Explore the Murray River islands
• Camp beneath the Mallee stars
• Discover remote desert landscapes

Just beyond the Victorian border from South Australia’s Riverland, Murray-Sunset National Park is where things take a truly wild turn. This is the vast and wild side of the Murray.

Covering a huge Mallee landscape, the park includes river environments around Walpolla, Mulcra and Lindsay Islands, where wetlands, forests and waterways create a unique ecosystem. Known for its colourful sunsets, rugged tracks as well as incredible night skies (ideal for star-gazing) this is a destination for travellers looking to escape the crowds.

The river channels are perfect for paddling and wildlife spotting, while the surrounding Mallee is home to emus, kangaroos and a remarkable variety of native plants. But if you’re hoping to really experience this place for what it is, then don’t pass up the chance to explore with Murray Offroad Adventures where you can cover distance in a 4WD but also on foot.

Nearby hotels

In the charming town of Mildura, spend the night at Kar-Rama for a modern hotel featuring a pool and a central location. Meanwhile, at Mildura Golf Resort, opt for everything you need from a stay as well as a round of golf and drinks overlooking the course.

4. Hattah-Kulkyne National Park — Victoria

Distance from Adelaide: about 560 km (6.5 hours)

Top things to do:

• Walk around the Hattah Lakes
• Spot wildlife in the wetlands
• Explore Mallee bushland trails

Home to the spectacular Hattah Lakes, this national park protects one of Victoria’s most important and incredible wetland systems. The interconnected lakes, fed by the nearby Murray River, form part of an internationally recognised Ramsar wetland, providing critical habitat for waterbirds and native wildlife.

Then, beyond the lakes, the park’s ancient Mallee landscape is filled with walking tracks and quiet camping areas. This is a great option for a real taste of wilderness, where desert scenery and thriving wetlands collide; a reminder of how much life the Murray River supports far beyond its banks!