I do love rivers. Here we list the longest in Australia. There’s even a creek (actually it is a river)! Now, what’s the difference between a creek and a river, anyway?
There’s no doubt about it, riverside camping is up there with our favourites, especially if it’s a river that we can swim in. Depending on the time of year, of course.
School holidays are approaching and World Rivers Day is September 27 so it’s the perfect time to take yourself to some of these…
Murray River – NSW, ACT
Australia’s longest river (2,508 km), it flows through three states and is central to irrigation, farming, and recreation. Famous for paddle steamers, winery towns, and riverside camping.
Camp: So, so many to choose from here’s a selection.
Darling River – NSW
A major tributary of the Murray, it forms part of the Murray–Darling Basin, Australia’s most important agricultural region. Known for historic outback towns like Bourke and Wilcannia.
Murrumbidgee River – ACT, NSW
Another key river of the Murray–Darling system, winding through the Snowy Mountains and rural NSW. Popular for fishing and riverbank camping.
Camp: Sandy Beach on the Murrumbidgee NSW – riverside free camp. Watch the video.
Lachlan River – NSW
A long, meandering river that runs west from the Great Dividing Range. It’s the fourth longest in Australia and another Murray–Darling Basin contributor.
Camp: Darby Falls, NSW
Cooper Creek, QLD, SA
One of the few inland rivers to reach Lake Eyre during flood years. Its desert journey and Dig Tree makes it a legend of the outback.
Camp: Dig Tree, QLD and Burkes Grave Camp, Innamincka, SA
Fitzroy River – QLD
Drains central Queensland and is known for its barramundi fishing and historical significance to Rockhampton and surrounding regions.
Camp: in Rockhampton or nearby Waterski Club, QLD
Fitzroy River – WA
Not to be confused with QLD’s Fitzroy! This river runs through the Kimberley and is known for ancient gorges like Geikie Gorge and cultural significance to First Nations people.
Camp: Fitzroy River Lodge at Fitzroy Crossing, WA
Victoria River – NT
The NT’s longest river. Flows through rugged escarpments and vast cattle country, and offers striking landscapes near Timber Creek.
Camp: Timber Creek, NT
Goulburn River – VIC
A major tributary of the Murray, it flows through northern Victoria. It’s vital for agriculture and loved for fishing and boating.
Camp: near Jamieson, Vic or Jamieson Caravan Park
Snowy River – VIC, NSW
Made famous in the “Man from Snowy River” legend, it flows from the Snowy Mountains to the sea, though much of its flow is diverted by the Snowy Hydro Scheme.
Camp: Permitted Rest Areas along the Snowy between Marlo and Orbost, Vic
Find these sites in the CAMPS Australia Wide App, CAMPS 13, CAMPSPendium2, or Caravan Parks 7 guides.
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