Some places just get it right. The Koondrook Waterfront is one of those spots where you can let the kids loose in a great playground while you soak up views of the Murray River and discover a bit of local history. It’s just a 2-minute drive across the historic Barham-Koondrook Bridge from BIG4 Barham Holiday Park – or a pleasant 10-minute walk if you fancy stretching the legs.
The playground sits right near Apex Park with views across to the Murray. It’s fully fenced, designed for kids of different ages and abilities, with equipment for little ones alongside more challenging structures for bigger kids. There’s even adult gym equipment nearby. Public toilets are just across the road, and shaded picnic areas with BBQ facilities make it easy to spend a half-day here.
Walk past the playground and you’ll find one of the most impressive pieces of public architecture on the Murray. The wharf was completed in 2016 using locally milled red gum from nearby Arbuthnot Sawmills, and it’s picked up international design awards for good reason.
The old wharf was dismantled decades ago, but back in the late 1800s this was a hive of paddle steamer activity. The new wharf sits on the same spot, with a 28-metre gangway leading to a floating pontoon that handles everything from kayaks to houseboats. Viewing platforms weave through towering red gums, framing views up and downriver.
At the wharf entrance, an in-ground sculpture by Indigenous artist Glenn Romanis tells the story of the Murray as shared by local Barapa Barapa elder Aunty Esther. Made from red gum, slate and basalt, it depicts the Murray, Gunbower Creek, and surrounding wetlands.
Nearby, the restored Goods Shed and operating Arbuthnot Sawmills (running since 1889) speak to Koondrook’s riverboat heritage. You can take a self-guided sawmill tour for around $5 to watch red gum logs being processed.
The Koondrook-Barham Redgum Statue River Walk features around 20 chainsaw-carved statues along the riverbank – pioneer figures, paddle steamer captains, Murray Cod, and local wildlife. It’s flat and accessible, connecting the two towns.
A scenic red gum footbridge crosses to Gunbower Island, where the 3.2km Goanna Walking Trail loops through ancient forest. Grab lunch at Long Paddock Food Store or Mate’s Royal Hotel before wandering back across the bridge.
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.
