The Darling River Run is a 730 km drive that follows the Darling River from the outback town of Walgett in north-western NSW to Wentworth on the Victorian border. It's an amazing journey through isolated outback towns that were once thriving ports on the river - Bourke, Louth, Tilpa, Wilcannia and Wentworth.
Set within the heart of outback NSW, the Darling River Run is a fascinating trek that takes you back through time. This route follows the meandering Darling River, between the historic town of Bourke and the town of Wentworth, where the Darling greets the Murray River.
The Darling River is one of the outback's most famous rivers. It is also one of Australia's longest Rivers and over many centuries has been an important link to the people that line it's banks. Starting near Bourke in central NSW and draining into the Murray in Victoria the Darling River Run snakes itself through black soil farming country. Driving along the Darling River Run you'll take a journey through historic pioneering country so take the time to read up on its rich history, drop in on the locals, and take your time to enjoy this unqique area.
Todays travellers can follow the Darling in either direction on mainly dirt roads. Excellent bush camping opportunities can be found along the banks of the river and accommodation with facilities can be found within the tourist parks, national park huts, station bunkhouses, and historic motels and hotels. The drive is over 700kms, although you could add another 300kms for side-trips to Broken Hill and Mungo National Park (recommended). These roads can be accessible by 2WD sedans in dry conditions, although 4WDs are recommended because rain can turn the road surface muddy within hours.
The sparkling lakes around Menindee are a welcome counterpoint to the dust and dry desert plains encountered during the long journey from Bourke via Louth, Tilpa and Wilcannia. The lakes and river-ways that form the Menindee Water Storage Scheme showcase nature at its best - with pelicans, spoonbills, and great crested grebes providing a delight for birdwatchers. The gorgeous sunsets over the waters are an event that should not be missed.
The dirt tracks south of Bourke continue to the first settlement, Louth some 99km away. At Louth, the track to Tilpa runs along the western bank of the Darling and another follows the eastern bank to Wilcannia. The later does not provide riverside camps quite as closely as on the western side. This is a great area to launch your "tinnie" (aluminium fishing dingy) and it's indeed possible to tow a caravan or camper trailer along these tracks. The river is full of yabbies so bring a yabby pot, some lamb neck or raw meat bait and enjoy!
The track continues along the river and then heads into the township of Wilcannia. Keep heading south along the river track (you'll see tracks on both sides of the river). About 30km before reaching Menindee you'll find some great camps in the red sand hills. South of Menindee in the Kinchega National Park are some perfect campsites, some even with beaches!
South of Kinchega National Park you can drive south to Wentworth via the tiny settlement of Pooncarrie. The dirt track from Kinchega follows the western bank of the Darling through cattle farming country along the Old Pooncarrie Road before crossing the bridge into town.
Itineraries and More Information >>
Attractions
Video Features
-
Regional Guides
- Sydney
- Blue Mountains
- Hawkesbury River
- Hunter Valley
- Central Coast
- Mid North Coast
- Northern Rivers
- North West Slopes
- New England
- Southern Agricultural
- South Coast
- Illawarra
- Southern Highlands
- Snowy Mountains
- Riverina
- Central West
- Far West
Travel in Australia
- About Australia
- Coming To Australia
- Getting Around
Search and Book
- Accommodation
- Flights
- Cruises
- Tours
- Ferries and Cruises
- Train Travel
