The waterways around Barham offer paddling experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Gunbower Creek winds through internationally recognised wetlands, the Murray stretches wide and calm, and quieter tributaries like the Edward River provide peaceful alternatives away from the crowds. Bring your own kayak or hire locally – either way, you’re in for something special.
This is the standout paddle in the area. The trail follows Gunbower Creek through the wetlands of Safe’s Lagoon in Gunbower State Forest – part of a Ramsar-listed wetland of international significance. The return route is approximately 5km and takes around two hours at a relaxed pace. Yellow numbered buoys mark the way, so you won’t get lost.
The trail starts at the Canoe Site, accessed via Koondrook Track off the Kerang-Koondrook Road, about 4.5km from town. An all-abilities canoe launcher was installed in 2020, making it easier for everyone to get on the water. There are no toilets at the launch point – the nearest are back in Koondrook.
Wildlife is the big drawcard here. The wetlands support breeding populations of birds, mammals and amphibians, and you’ll likely spot platypus and turtles if you’re out early or late in the day. Look for parrots, rosellas, swallows, ducks and owls nesting in the hollows of red gums standing in the water. Dragonflies skim the surface and Murray cod lurk below.
The trail works at any time of day, but wildlife is most active around sunrise and sunset. Between May and August, creek levels can drop too low for paddling, so check conditions before you go. Access to the launch can also be affected by wet weather or flooding.
The Murray itself is wide and calm through this section, suitable for paddlers of most experience levels. You can launch from Barham or Koondrook and head upstream or down – just be aware of boat traffic, especially on busy weekends.
For a longer adventure, the Murray River canoe trails in Murray Valley National Park and Barmah National Park (upstream from Barham, near Echuca) offer marked routes ranging from short loops to full-day one-way paddles. The Picnic Point to Barmah Lakes route covers 17.4km and takes around three and a half hours. Shorter loops from Barmah Lakes day visitor area run between 30 minutes and an hour and a half.
Water levels matter on the Murray. The river is best to paddle when levels sit between 1.4m and 2.4m – too shallow below 1.2m, and above 2.7m conditions become dangerous. Check the Bureau of Meteorology river heights before heading out.
If you want to escape the crowds, the Edward River is worth the drive. This peaceful tributary branches off the Murray at Picnic Point and flows through to Deniliquin and beyond. There’s over 60km of water trail to explore, with beaches and swimming spots along the way.
The Edward River canoe and kayak trail has a wheelchair-accessible launch at Edward River Bridge picnic area, near Mathoura. September to April is the best time to paddle – check water levels beforehand, as the river can have snags and may be impassable when too low. Optimal paddling is when levels sit between 1.6m and 2.4m.
The Edward lies within the traditional lands of the Wamba Wamba and Perrepa Perrepa Nations. Its traditional name is Kolety.
Pack drinking water – it’s limited or unavailable at most launch points. Sunscreen, a hat, and something to eat are essentials. A waterproof bag for your phone and valuables is worth having. If you’re heading out for more than a couple of hours, let someone know your route and expected return time.
Check paddling safety tips on the Paddle Smart Victoria website before you go, especially if you’re new to kayaking. Life jackets are strongly recommended.
BIG4 Barham Holiday Parks is a short drive from the Gunbower Island Canoe Trail and within easy reach of the Murray’s best paddling spots. Load up the kayaks, spend the morning on the water spotting wildlife, and be back in time for lunch. It doesn’t get much better than that.
Big4 Barham Holiday Park is located in the friendly riverside town of Barham , in the beautiful Riverina region of New South Wales.
Barham is a quiet, peaceful destination – perfect for holidaymakers looking to slow down, unwind, and reconnect with nature and loved ones.
With plenty of things to see and do nearby, including swimming and kayaking on the Murray River exploring national parks, and sampling local wines and gourmet produce, Barham offers a relaxing yet rewarding getaway.
The locals are warm and welcoming, always happy to share their favourite hidden gems. Barham is also just a short drive from popular towns such as Moama, Mulwala, and Deniliquin, making it an ideal base for exploring both NSW and North East Victoria.
