Discover the best things to do in the Riverland, South Australia, a region where the Murray River carves its way through golden cliffs, lush vineyards, and tranquil wetlands.
Beyond its postcard-perfect scenery, the Riverland is alive with experiences that invite exploration at every turn.
Drift along winding waterways teeming with birdlife, wander through fruit orchards and taste the region’s seasonal bounty, or step into cellar doors pouring some of South Australia’s finest wines.
From historic river towns and vibrant markets to hidden lagoons and star-filled night skies, the Riverland offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and discovery that keeps travellers coming back.
Best Things to Do in the Riverland, South Australia
The Riverland blends river adventures, charming towns, and fresh local flavours.
Cruise or paddle the Murray River to see red gum forests, sandstone cliffs, and abundant birdlife, or unwind on a houseboat for a slower pace.
Explore towns like Renmark, Berri, and Loxton, each offering unique shops, cafes, and cultural spots.
Taste award-winning wines, seasonal fruit, and regional produce at cellar doors, markets, and roadside stalls.
Wander Murray River National Park and Katarapko for wetlands, trails, and wildlife, then dive into local history at heritage villages and museums that share the Riverland’s river trade and settlement stories.
Outdoor Adventures on the Murray and Beyond
The Riverland is an outdoor playground where the Murray River takes centre stage.
Paddle through calm backwaters, cruise past golden cliffs, or enjoy a houseboat getaway with ever-changing views.
Beyond the water, conservation parks like Murray River National Park and Katarapko offer hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting among wetlands and red-sand landscapes.
From sunrise paddles to sunset walks, it’s the perfect place to slow down, explore, and immerse yourself in the natural world.
🚣 Kayak the Serene Backwaters
One of the best ways to experience the Murray River is by kayak or canoe, gliding through calm creeks and hidden lagoons that are off the main channel.
The water here is glassy and gentle, making it ideal for beginners and families.
Along the way, it’s common to see pelicans, spoonbills, and turtles in the reeds, or even a kangaroo pausing for a drink at the shore.
Guided tours, such as those offered by Canoe Adventures Riverland, lead you into the wetlands at sunrise or sunset, when pink skies and mirrored gum trees create a magical scene.
For a slower pace, hire a kayak and follow winding channels at your own rhythm, surrounded only by birdsong and the soft ripple of the river.
A waterproof camera is essential for capturing those serene moments by the river.
🛳️ Captain a Houseboat Cruise
For a quintessential Riverland adventure, hire a houseboat and take the wheel of your own floating home.
Load up with fresh local produce and wine, gather your favourite people, and set off along the Murray River at a leisurely pace.
As the scenery shifts from ochre cliffs to red gum forests, there’s a good chance you’ll pass through a lock system – a unique experience as your boat is lifted or lowered to the next stretch of river.
Moor at sandy banks to camp under star-filled skies, drop into friendly river towns for a meal, or spend your days fishing from the deck and spotting kangaroos at dusk.
If you’re short on time, consider joining a guided cruise, such as Rivergum Cruises from Waikerie or the historic PS Industry in Renmark, for local stories and stunning river views without having to steer the boat.
🚶♂️Bushwalking and Nature Trails
Lace up your boots and explore the Riverland’s diverse landscapes on foot.
Murray River National Park offers a range of experiences, from leisurely riverside strolls to longer hikes through mallee scrub, with Katarapko Creek a favourite for family-friendly walks among gum trees and wetlands.
Lyrup Flats is perfect for spotting whistling kites and kangaroos along the riverbank.
At the same time, Wilabalangaloo Reserve near Renmark rewards a short 1.5 km walk with sweeping views of the Murray and its striking ochre cliffs – best seen in the soft morning or late afternoon light.
For a more adventurous experience, head into the Chowilla Game Reserve or Danggali Conservation Park, which is part of a UNESCO-listed Riverland biosphere.
These remote areas are home to saltbush plains, open woodlands, and a diverse array of wildlife, including emus, wedge-tailed eagles, and the elusive mallee fowl.
Trails are often blissfully quiet, with only the sound of wind in the trees and perhaps an echidna shuffling by.
In summer, start early or later in the day, carry plenty of water, and stay sun-safe.
⛺️ Camping Under the Stars
Spending a night by the Murray River is one of the most memorable ways to experience the Riverland.
Riverside campsites range from national park campgrounds, such as Katarapko Creek, to relaxed caravan parks in town, where the soundtrack is the sounds of frogs at night and birdsong at dawn.
In remote spots such as Danggali or Gluepot Reserve, the night skies are pitch-black, revealing the Milky Way in dazzling clarity along with the occasional satellite or shooting star.
Family-friendly sites often have fire pits for toasting marshmallows and swapping stories under the glow of the embers.
For extra comfort without sacrificing the close-to-nature feel, rustic riverfront cottages and glamping tents are excellent alternatives.
Wherever you set up, tread lightly, keep an eye out for nocturnal visitors like owls and possums, and leave only footprints behind.
🏄 Water Sports & Adrenaline Rushes
The Riverland’s calm Murray waters and wide-open lakes make it a prime spot for action-packed fun.
Lake Bonney at Barmera is a favourite for water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, and jet skiing, with quiet stretches of river offering more space to carve up the water.
Many towns have boat ramps, and locals are happy to point you in the direction of the best spots.
For thrills on dry land, Loveday 4×4 Adventure Park, near Barmera, offers 40 km of off-road tracks, along with quad bike and dune buggy rides for an adrenaline rush.
The park also hosts drag racing and 4×4 event weekends, blending the roar of engines with laid-back campfire gatherings.
Even cyclists can get in on the action by hiring an e-bike here to cruise a 25 km dirt trail with ease. However you choose to get your heart racing, a refreshing swim in the Murray is the perfect way to wind down.
Food and Wine Delights of the Riverland
From vineyard restaurants to riverside breweries, the Riverland serves up flavours as vibrant as its landscapes.
Known as the fruit bowl of South Australia, this region produces around 95% of the state’s citrus – oranges, mandarins, lemons, and more – along with an impressive variety of grapes, nuts, and stone fruit.
The freshness shows in every bite and sip, whether it’s a crisp glass of wine at a cellar door, a tangy jar of homemade marmalade from a farmers’ market, or a hearty meal at a country pub.
With seasonal produce at its heart, the Riverland’s food and wine scene is all about simple, honest flavours enjoyed in stunning settings.
🍷 Winery Cellar Doors & Wetland Views
Wine lovers are spoilt for choice in the Riverland, where warm-climate vineyards produce everything from bold Shiraz to creative new varieties.
Banrock Station Wine & Wetland Centre is a standout, pairing eco-conscious wines with a stunning natural setting.
After sampling crisp whites or sweet fortifieds, wander the wetland boardwalks and watch ducks glide through the lagoons – knowing part of your visit supports conservation.
Other gems include 919 Wines, a boutique organic winery renowned for its fortifieds, and Mallee Estate in Renmark, where a Greek restaurant adds extra flavour to the experience.
🍺 Distilleries and Craft Spirits
The Riverland’s drinks scene isn’t just about wine – it’s fast becoming a hotspot for craft spirits.
Leading the way is 23rd Street Distillery in Renmark, a historic red-brick factory transformed into a stylish distillery and tasting bar.
Tours take you behind the scenes to see the impressive copper stills and learn the art of distilling, before sampling small-batch creations, such as their signature gin infused with local citrus and botanicals.
There’s also vodka, brandy, and whisky to try, plus gin paddles and inventive cocktails for a relaxed afternoon.
With new micro-distilleries emerging – and even plans to revive the iconic Big Orange as a distillery and brewery – the Riverland’s spirit scene is full of flavour and surprises.
🍺 Riverside Breweries & Local Beer
Beer lovers will find plenty to enjoy in the Riverland, where craft breweries pair quality brews with laid-back country charm.
The Woolshed Brewery at Wilkadene, north of Renmark, is a standout – set in a century-old shearing shed right on the Murray River.
Arrive by boat or kayak, tie up at the dock, and settle in on the deck with a tasting paddle while the river drifts past.
Their range spans crisp golden ales to rich porters, along with alcoholic ginger beer and hard lemonades made from local citrus.
Bring your picnic or grab a pizza, let the kids roam the lawn, and feel free to bring the dog along.
For something different, check if Barmera Brewery is open, or drop into one of the Riverland’s classic pubs where local beers and hearty meals are always on tap.
🍑 Fresh Produce & Farm-Gate Goodies
With so much fertile farmland, the Riverland is bursting with fresh flavours.
Roadside stalls sell seasonal fruits straight from the orchard – summer brings juicy peaches, apricots, and watermelons, while winter is all about sweet oranges and tangy grapefruits, often sold on the honour system, so keep some coins handy.
Saturday mornings in Berri come alive at the Riverland Farmers’ Market, where stalls brim with just-picked vegetables, orchard fruits, free-range eggs, almonds, walnuts, local honey, dried fruit, and gourmet treats like olives, capers, lavender products, and smallgoods.
Many cafes and restaurants incorporate these ingredients into their menus, so every bite reflects the region’s unique flavours.
Think citrus tarts from a country bakery, Riverland steak with red wine reduction, or a cheese platter starring local produce.
For something indulgent, stop at Havenhand Chocolates in Waikerie, where handmade creations often feature regional flavours – the orange liqueur truffle is a local favourite.
🍽️ Unique Dining Experiences
The Riverland has a knack for turning a meal into a story.
The Mallee Fowl Restaurant near Berri is a true standout – a bush-themed, award-winning spot set on 24 acres of mallee scrub.
Outside, vintage farm gear, quirky Australiana, and a giant mallee fowl sculpture set the scene.
Inside, it’s a treasure trove of antiques, farm tools, and taxidermy, creating an atmosphere that’s uniquely Aussie.
The menu is hearty and local, with dishes like kangaroo fillet, big steaks, and seasonal yabbies, served up by owners who are just as colourful as the decor.
For a dose of history, the Overland Corner Hotel offers cold beer and pub classics in an 1859-built sandstone building once visited by riverboat captains and bushrangers – with a friendly ghost rumoured to drop by still.
In Renmark, the Murray River Queen floating restaurant offers sunset dinners accompanied by live music, local wine, and breathtaking river views.
And sometimes, the most memorable dining experience is a simple picnic on the riverbank, accompanied by fresh cheese, olives, and a bottle of Riverland wine as the Murray drifts past.
Wildlife and Nature Encounters
Nature is an integral part of everyday life in the Riverland, with its diverse blend of rivers, wetlands, and mallee plains creating habitats for an incredible range of wildlife.
Colourful parrots dart through gum trees in town parks, pelicans patrol the river shallows, and kangaroos graze at dusk on the edges of almost every community.
Wetlands like Katarapko and Banrock Station are perfect for spotting waterbirds.
At the same time, more remote areas such as Chowilla Game Reserve and Danggali Conservation Park offer encounters with emus, wedge-tailed eagles, and the elusive mallee fowl.
Whether it’s a casual stroll along a riverbank or a dedicated day of birdwatching, the Riverland’s wild side is never far away.
🔭 Wetland Walks & Birdwatching
The Riverland is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, with its wetlands and waterways teeming with a diverse array of life.
Banrock Station’s Wetland Trails are a standout, leading you along boardwalks and dirt paths through a restored ecosystem.
Bird hides offer the chance to spot black swans gliding across lagoons, kingfishers flashing through the reeds, and even the rare regent parrot.
Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times for bird activity and beautiful light, with Banrock providing handy guides to help identify species along the way.
For a wilder birding adventure, Gluepot Reserve, located north of Waikerie, is a world-class conservation area managed by BirdLife Australia.
It’s remote and requires preparation, but rewards patient visitors with rare mallee species, such as the malleefowl, black-eared miner, and red-lored whistler.
Closer to town, Hart Lagoon in Waikerie offers an easy loop where spoonbills and stilts forage in the shallows, while Lake Bonney’s foreshore in Barmera is often dotted with pelicans at dawn.
Binoculars will enhance the experience, but even without them, the Riverland’s birdlife is hard to miss.
🦘 National Parks Safari
Exploring the Riverland’s national and conservation parks feels like a mini safari, with native wildlife around every corner.
In Murray River National Park, near Berri, Loxton, and Renmark, euros rest in the shade, emus wander through the scrub, and goannas bask by the tracks.
The Katarapko section offers a scenic drive and walking trails with insights into Aboriginal culture and early settlement.
Chowilla Game Reserve, part of the Riverland Ramsar Wetland, is perfect for a kayak or canoe trip through creeks and billabongs.
Paddle quietly to spot whistling kites overhead, kingfishers perched low, and turtles slipping into the water.
For true wilderness, Danggali Conservation Park in the north offers vast red landscapes, star-filled skies, and the opportunity to spot kangaroos, emus, and nocturnal marsupials.
Always carry water, plan, and give wildlife space to roam.
🌅 Sunsets and Stargazing by the Water
Some of the Riverland’s most unforgettable moments happen as the day winds down.
At Lake Bonney in Barmera, the eastern shore is the perfect vantage point to watch the sun melt into the horizon, painting the sky in deep oranges, pinks, and purples.
The still water mirrors the colours and the silhouettes of half-submerged red gums, creating a scene that photographers and romantics alike can’t resist.
Riverfront lookouts, such as Headings Cliff near Renmark or the Waikerie cliffs, offer equally stunning views, often with flocks of corellas or galahs flying home in the fading light.
When the colours fade, the night sky takes over. With little light pollution, the Riverland offers some of the best stargazing in South Australia.
From a houseboat deck, a campsite, or a quiet riverbank, the Milky Way stretches overhead, the Southern Cross shines bright, and on crisp winter nights, the clarity is breathtaking.
Warm summer evenings invite you to lie back in comfort, while cooler months are perfect for a hot drink in hand.
For an expert touch, join a guided night in the nearby River Murray International Dark Sky Reserve – or enjoy the awe of the vast sky on your own.
🦆 Animal Encounters for Families
The Riverland is full of gentle wildlife experiences that delight kids.
Many caravan parks in towns like Renmark and Berri have resident kangaroos or ducks wandering the grounds; however, it’s best to admire them without offering food unless it’s specifically approved.
Evening walks along the Renmark riverfront often reveal brushtail possums in the trees, happily nibbling leaves or fruit within easy view.
In Monash, the Monash Adventure Park combines an impressive playground with a duck pond and bird aviary, where cockatoos and other waterbirds can be seen up close.
Late winter and spring bring splashes of colour to the conservation parks, with wild orchids and native blooms turning walks into scavenger hunts for nature-loving families.
Fishing is another easy win – the Murray and local lakes are full of carp that are simple for kids to catch, and spotting a pelican waiting for leftovers adds extra excitement.
History and Culture Riches
The Riverland’s heritage encompasses ancient Aboriginal culture, the paddle-steamer era, and its pivotal role in Australia’s agricultural history.
Visit the 1859-built Overland Corner Hotel, wander along heritage trails in towns like Loxton and Waikerie, or explore the Loxton Historical Village, featuring recreated pioneer buildings.
Aboriginal sites, canoe trees, and interpretive trails in Murray River National Park reveal a deep connection to Country, while irrigation displays and historic packing sheds highlight the region’s farming legacy.
These cultural threads add depth to the Riverland’s natural beauty.
🏛️ Loxton Historical Village (“The Village”)
Loxton Historical Village is an open-air museum that recreates a 20th-century Riverland town with over 45 fully furnished buildings.
Step inside the old general store, one-room schoolhouse, blacksmith’s forge, print shop, and bakery, each filled with thousands of authentic artefacts.
Sound recordings and stories in some exhibits add to the atmosphere, making it feel as if the townsfolk have just stepped out.
Kids enjoy the vintage train station and dressing up for “old-time” photos, while volunteers in period costume often roam the village on weekends and special event days, ready to share tales of the past.
Allow a couple of hours to wander and finish with a coffee or scone at the onsite café – a visit that’s as educational as it is entertaining.
🎨 Silo Art Trail and Public Art
The Riverland’s landscapes aren’t its only masterpieces – towering silo murals have become striking landmarks for art lovers and photographers.
In Paringa, grain silos now feature a vibrant mural of pelicans and river scenes, celebrating the Murray’s rich birdlife and ecosystem.
In Waikerie, two massive silos painted by artists Jimmy Dvate and Garry Duncan feature a giant orange-toned yabby, endangered regent parrots, a night scene with a rain moth, and native flowers, telling a rich story of the land and its creatures.
The scale is awe-inspiring, with viewing areas, information boards, and even an audio tour in Waikerie to deepen the experience.
Both sites are free to visit and make perfect stops along a road trip – and photo backdrops.
While in Waikerie, drop by the Rainmoth Gallery to see local art and pick up a handmade memento.
🚂 Paddle-Steamer and Irrigation History
The Murray River was once the main transport route through the region, and the Riverland still carries strong echoes of its paddle-steamer past.
In Renmark, the PS Industry, built in 1911, sits proudly on the riverfront as a floating museum.
Once used to carry supplies and help develop locks, it’s now lovingly maintained by volunteers.
Step aboard to explore the engine room and massive boiler, or, if you time it right, join a monthly steaming day to see it chug along the river, belching steam and tooting its whistle just as it did over a century ago.
Further along in Cobdogla, the Cobdogla Irrigation & Steam Museum tells the story of how the Murray’s water transformed the Riverland into fertile farmland.
Its star attraction is the world’s only working Humphrey Pump – a 1920s engineering marvel with no moving parts – fired up on special event days alongside a mini steam train ride for families.
Even when not operating, the museum’s vintage tractors, engines, and irrigation equipment paint a vivid picture of the region’s pioneering spirit and agricultural ingenuity.
🏛️ Indigenous Cultural Connections
The Riverland’s landscapes hold thousands of years of Aboriginal heritage, with the Erawirung, Ngarrindjeri, and other First Peoples living along the Murray long before European settlement.
The river was, and remains, a vital life source – its network of creeks, lakes, and billabongs serving as highways for trade and travel in bark canoes.
Physical traces of this history still stand, from scarred canoe trees where bark was cut to make canoes and shields, to ancient ring trees marking special sites.
For a deeper understanding, join an Eco-Cultural Tour at Calperum Station in Renmark, guided by an Aboriginal ranger and an ecologist.
These walks in the Country reveal ring trees, archaeological finds like 5,000-year-old earth ovens, and stories of how people lived in rhythm with the river’s cycles.
Even without a tour, places like Devil’s Elbow or Ngak Indau wetlands feature interpretive signs that honour traditional owners and their enduring connection to the land.
This connection adds depth and meaning to any visit to the Riverland.
📍Quirky Local Landmarks
The Riverland is dotted with quirky roadside attractions that add a touch of fun to any trip.
The most famous is The Big Orange near Berri – a 15-metre fibreglass fruit that’s been standing since 1980.
Once a tourist hub with a lookout inside, it’s now closed, but still makes for a great photo stop (and there’s talk it may one day reopen as a brewery or juice bar).
In Paringa, the Black Stump – said to be the most extensive grapevine cutting in the world – nods to the Aussie saying “beyond the black stump,” meaning the middle of nowhere.
Scattered across the region are giant stone fruit sculptures, from the painted apricot in Monash to the big bunch of grapes in Glossop, celebrating the area’s rich produce.
For a dash of local lore, Lake Bonney in Barmera is home to the “Barmera Monster” – a mythical creature immortalised in a whimsical lakeside statue.
These offbeat landmarks capture the Riverland’s playful spirit and make for perfect photo-ops along the way.
Family Fun and Relaxation
The Riverland makes it easy to enjoy time together, no matter the age mix in your group.
Picnic spots line the Murray River, perfect for lazy afternoons with a packed basket, a frisbee, and space for the kids to run.
Shady riverfront parks in towns like Renmark, Berri, and Barmera often have playgrounds, walking paths, and barbecue facilities, making them ideal for relaxed family gatherings.
Water activities are a hit in the warmer months – from safe swimming areas at Lake Bonney to gentle paddling in sheltered creeks.
Hire a kayak for a short family-friendly trip or take a casual cruise to enjoy the scenery without the effort.
Markets, roadside stalls, and local cafés add easy food stops along the way, while mini-golf, adventure playgrounds, and wildlife spotting keep the younger ones entertained.
In the Riverland, days can be as busy or as laid-back as you like, with plenty of space and fresh air for everyone to unwind.
🛝 Monash Adventure Park
For families, Monash Adventure Park is a must-visit spot that guarantees big smiles.
Once famous for its daring 1970s-era equipment, it’s now a modern, safe playground packed with giant slides, rope bridges, flying fox ziplines, a jungle maze, and a water play area perfect for hot days.
Entry is free, with plenty of picnic tables, barbecues, and shady areas where parents can relax while the kids burn off energy.
Set among palms and lawns, the park is also home to resident peacocks that wander the grounds.
Please bring a picnic or grab an ice cream from the kiosk, and plan to spend a few hours making the most of it.
In the summer, mornings or late afternoons are best to beat the heat, and bringing swimmers and towels is a good idea if the water features are calling.
🏖️ Lake Bonney Swimming and Beach Time
Lake Bonney in Barmera is more than a sunset showstopper – it’s a daytime playground for all ages.
With gentle sandy shores and calm waters, it’s like a giant natural swimming pool where kids can paddle safely, teens can try stand-up paddleboarding, and the more adventurous can windsurf or kitesurf.
Even if you’re not on the water, watching the colourful sails race across the lake is a treat.
Barmera’s main swimming area features lawns, barbecues, and a playground right by the water, making it an ideal spot to spend the whole day.
In the summer, you might even find a seasonal inflatable water park set up, complete with slides and floating obstacles, for endless kid-friendly fun.
As the day winds down, grab fish and chips from town and enjoy them lakeside as pelicans glide in – the perfect finish to a lazy day by the water.
⛲️ Riverfront Town Strolls
Each Riverland town offers its slice of charm, and one of the simplest joys is wandering its riverfronts at a leisurely pace.
In Renmark, a paved path winds past gardens, public art, and playgrounds, with houseboats drifting by and interpretive signs sharing the river’s history.
Kids can climb aboard the whimsical “Loch Luna” ship play structure, while adults can pause with a coffee and enjoy the view.
Berri’s riverfront park features the beloved “Jimmy James” statue honouring a famed Aboriginal tracker, plus a lookout tower with sweeping views.
Loxton’s trail connects the river to wetlands and a native plant garden, ideal for a walk, jog, or family bike ride.
In Waikerie, the clifftop lookout offers panoramic views of the Murray, and the free ferry ride across the river is a novelty that kids love.
With picnic areas, cafés, and ice-cream stops never far away, these gentle strolls capture the Riverland’s laid-back, welcoming spirit.
🌾 Fruit Picking and Farm Experiences
The Riverland’s farms and orchards offer a hands-on way to connect with the region’s produce.
In summer, some properties run pick-your-own fruit days, where kids can fill baskets with sun-warmed oranges or apricots and taste the difference of fruit eaten straight from the tree.
While not every farm is open year-round, visitor centres and farmers’ markets often have the latest on seasonal u-pick opportunities.
Even just driving between towns, you’ll pass rows of vineyards, citrus orchards, and olive groves – perfect for showing little ones where their food comes from.
For something different, Bella Lavender Estate near Glossop combines fragrant lavender gardens with mini-golf and a café serving lavender-infused cakes and wood-fired pizzas – an unusual mix that works beautifully.
Family-friendly animal encounters also pop up during school holidays, such as reptile shows or baby farm animals at local venues like the Barmera Visitor Centre.
If you’re willing to venture further, the Monarto Safari Park, located approximately 1.5 hours from Waikerie, is one of the largest open-range zoos in the world, making for an unforgettable day trip for animal lovers.
Top Riverland Activities for Your Next Trip
The Riverland is a playground for anyone who loves being outdoors. Days here flow at the same pace as the Murray River, moving from laid-back to full of action in a heartbeat.
One moment, it’s drifting past red cliffs in a kayak; the next, it’s savouring fresh produce straight from the orchard.
With so many ways to explore – from river cruises and bushwalks to cellar door visits and wildlife encounters – there’s always something new to try.
1. 3-Night Murray River Cruise on the classic Murray Princess
A 3-night cruise on the PS Murray Princess is the kind of trip where the journey is the destination.
This authentic paddle wheeler glides along the Murray River at a pace that lets every view sink in – from sunlit sandstone cliffs to quiet stretches alive with bird calls.
Along the way, there are stops to wander around Murray Bridge, join a guided nature walk, and take a smaller boat into the backwaters, where kangaroos, wombats, and turtles make their home.
On board, each meal celebrates the flavours of South Australia, and evenings are best spent on deck watching the river turn gold at sunset.
2. Monarto Safari Park Ticket
Monarto Safari Park brings the African plains to South Australia, with more than 500 animals roaming across vast open spaces.
Just an hour from Adelaide, it’s home to lions, rhinos, cheetahs, chimpanzees, and so much more.
The 12 kilometres of walking tracks offer a chance to breathe in fresh country air while spotting wildlife in natural-style habitats, or you can hop on the Zu-loop bus to cover more ground.
For something extra special, ticket upgrades allow you to join behind-the-scenes animal experiences and discover how the park’s conservation efforts are helping to protect endangered species.
3. Dark Sky Gold Stars Sunset Dinner Tour in Mannum
The Dark Sky Gold Stars Sunset Dinner Tour in Mannum is a night where the Murray River and the cosmos share the spotlight.
Perched on the tallest clifftops along the river, the views stretch from the water below to the glittering sweep of the Milky Way above.
This 130-million-year-old landscape is one of the darkest places on Earth, making it an ideal spot for stargazing, free from the glare of city lights.
As the sun fades, dinner is served with friends or family close by, and the calm of the river pairs perfectly with a sky full of stars.
Tips for Visiting the Riverland, South Australia
A little planning can make a Riverland trip even smoother. Summer days here can get very hot – often over 35°C – so pack light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
If you’re bushwalking or spending time outdoors, aim for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the midday heat.
Distances between towns can be longer than they look on the map, so allow extra driving time and top up on fuel when you can, especially if heading into remote parks like Danggali or Gluepot Reserve.
Many small towns have limited evening dining options, so be sure to check opening hours or book ahead if you’re planning to dine out.
For water-based activities, remember that while the Murray River is generally calm, it’s still important to wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
If you’re hiring equipment, most operators provide these.
Finally, support local growers by visiting farmers’ markets, roadside stalls, and cellar doors – it’s a great way to taste the region and connect with the community.
And keep your camera handy; from sunrise over the wetlands to a glassy Lake Bonney at sunset, the Riverland rewards those ready to capture the moment.
How to Travel Around the Riverland, South Australia
The Riverland covers a vast stretch along the Murray, so having your own set of wheels is the easiest way to get around.
Driving lets you hop between towns like Renmark, Berri, Loxton, Waikerie, and Barmera at your own pace, stopping for roadside fruit stalls, lookout points, or photo-worthy silo art along the way.
Car hire is available in larger towns and nearby cities, but it’s recommended to book ahead if you’re visiting during peak holiday periods.
For a slower pace, cycling is a scenic option on shorter routes, with some towns offering e-bike hire for extra range.
Houseboats are another unique way to explore – travelling along the river itself and mooring at sandy banks or riverfront towns for supplies and sightseeing.
Public transport is limited, so tours and day trips with local operators can be handy for reaching wineries, wetlands, or conservation parks without the hassle of navigating.
However you choose to travel, allow time for detours – some of the Riverland’s best finds are the ones you stumble across between destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Riverland in South Australia known for?
The Riverland in South Australia is known for its stunning Murray River landscapes, vast citrus orchards, and thriving vineyards.
It’s a hub for outdoor activities like kayaking, houseboating, and birdwatching, as well as a top destination for fresh local produce, award-winning wines, and unique wetland and wildlife experiences.
What are the top attractions in the Riverland?
The top attractions in the Riverland include the Murray River, Banrock Station Wine & Wetland Centre, and Lake Bonney in Barmera.
Visitors also enjoy Monash Adventure Park, Murray River National Park, and the Riverland Silo Art Trail, each offering a mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences unique to the region.
What is the best time of year to visit the Riverland?
The best time of year to visit the Riverland is in spring (September–November) for mild weather, wildflowers, and active wildlife, or autumn (March–May) for cooler days and grape harvest season.
Summer is ideal for water activities on the Murray River and Lake Bonney, though temperatures can often exceed 35°C.
Are there family-friendly activities in the Riverland?
Yes, there are many family-friendly activities in the Riverland, including Monash Adventure Park, swimming and paddleboarding at Lake Bonney, and wildlife spotting along the Murray River.
Families can also enjoy fruit picking, picnics in riverside parks, exploring walking trails, and visiting attractions like the Loxton Historical Village for an educational yet fun day out.
Where can you go wine tasting in the Riverland?
You can go wine tasting in the Riverland at popular cellar doors such as Banrock Station, 919 Wines, Mallee Estate, and Caudo Vineyard.
These venues showcase the region’s warm-climate varieties, from bold reds to crisp whites, often paired with scenic views, local produce, and experiences that highlight the Riverland’s food and wine culture.
What national parks can you visit in the Riverland?
You can visit several national and conservation parks in the Riverland, including Murray River National Park, Chowilla Game Reserve, and Danggali Conservation Park.
These parks offer opportunities for bushwalking, camping, birdwatching, and kayaking, with landscapes ranging from riverfront wetlands and red gum forests to remote mallee scrub rich in native wildlife and bird species.
Are there any free things to do in the Riverland?
Yes, there are plenty of free things to do in the Riverland, including riverfront walks in towns like Renmark and Berri, visiting public lookouts such as Headings Cliff, exploring silo art in Paringa and Waikerie, and swimming at Lake Bonney.
Many parks, picnic areas, and nature trails can also be enjoyed at no cost.
Can you swim in the Murray River or Lake Bonney?
Yes, you can swim in both the Murray River and Lake Bonney, with Lake Bonney offering calm, sandy shores ideal for families.
The Murray River has safe stretches for swimming, though conditions vary, so it’s important to check local advice.
Both provide refreshing spots to cool off, especially during the warmer months.
Where are the best camping spots in the Riverland?
The best camping spots in the Riverland include Katarapko Creek campgrounds in Murray River National Park, Chowilla Game Reserve, and Danggali Conservation Park for more remote experiences.
There are also scenic riverside caravan parks in towns like Renmark and Waikerie, offering easy access to the Murray River and family-friendly facilities.
Conclusion
The Riverland is a place where river adventures, fresh local flavours, and charming towns come together to create a getaway that’s as relaxing as it is memorable.
Whether you’re here for kayaking through quiet backwaters, tasting award-winning wines, or soaking up sunsets over Lake Bonney, there’s something for every pace and style of traveller.
With so many things to see and do, the only challenge is deciding where to start – so grab a map, pack your camera, and let the Murray guide you to your next South Australian adventure.
