Not content with one, there are seven separate areas of the Murray River National Park to discover: Katarapko, Lyrup Flats, Kingston-on-Murray, Paringa Paddock, Gurra Gurra, Thieles flat and Bulyong
Island.
According to National Parks and Wildlife Service Senior Ranger Riverland Owen Williams, the park ticks all the boxes. Where a person chooses to explore depends on whether they want to boat, fish or camp or just explore. In some places they can do all these things plus bring their four-legged friend.
“Katarapko is probably king of the region with 55 campsites, and lots of walking and bike trails along with self-guided driving trails,” said Mr Williams.
“Katarapko Creek and Eckerts Creek are significant waterways that flow through the park and are perfect for canoeing adventures. The Ngak Indau Wetland trail is ideal for viewing wetland birdlife, with a bird hide for avid birdwatchers.
“Lyrup Flats offers secluded campsites along the river and two campgrounds that are suitable for larger groups. Dogs are also welcome if they are kept on a lead.
“Other sites such as Paringa Paddock feature magnificent river red gums and habitat for koalas, birds and reptiles. It also offers several walking trails and is a perfect day visitor site. While canoeists and boaties will love the extensive waterways of Bulyong Island,” said Mr Williams.
April’s Park of the Month activities include:
Fishing with a NPWS Ranger: tips and prizes – Saturday 11 April 9.30am-2pm
Join NPWS Riverland Rangers for a full day of fishing. Learn tips and tricks to successful fishing or, if you’re an expert, just join in the fun. Prizes and lunch provided.
Meet the rangers – Campfire chat and snacks at Katarapko – Friday 17 April 4pm – 6pm
Come and join local National Parks Rangers for a meet and greet and some campfire food. Ask your burning questions about what they do, the importance of local parks and tips or tricks to having an
awesome adventure.
River Detectives – Saturday 25 April 2pm – 3.30pm
Become an official member of the Riverland Ranger Kids Crew. Join as they explore Katarapko, part of the Murray River National Park and the lands of the First Peoples of the River Murray and Mallee.
Botanical art class with Gilbert RM Dashort – Friday 24 April and Sunday 26 April
Take your pencil and artistic eye along to the park as Botanical Illustrator Gilbert RM Dashort guides you in creating your masterpiece.
Roaving ranger
Keep an eye out for the ranger team around the park and pick up an activity sheet to spot and identify birds and trees.
Other activities to enjoy all-year round include:
Katarapko walking and bike riding trails – Follow the trails to experience the Murray River National Park.
Murray River National Park self-drive trail– Use the SA National Parks tour app to follow the self-drive trail of Katarapko.
For more information about Park of the Month events and to book, head to:
www.parks.sa.gov.au/get-inspired/park-of-the-month
