Conservation parks
Photo credit: SATC
Explore the natural beauty and diverse ecosystems of the Mid Murray through our stunning conservation parks. Each park offers a unique glimpse into the area’s rich geological history, vibrant wildlife, and significant cultural heritage.
Brookfield Conservation Park
Near Blanchetown, Brookfield Conservation Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to southern hairy-nosed wombats, fat-tailed dunnarts, red and western grey kangaroos, and emus. Bird watchers can spot the nationally vulnerable malleefowl, Australian ringneck parrots, hooded robins, and more. The park is open daily from 7am until sunset, with closures four times a year for feral animal control programs.
Marne Valley Conservation Park
Discover the serene beauty of the 105-hectare Marne Valley Conservation Park, bisected by the Marne River. Established in 1976, this park features gently undulating land and seasonally inundated giant river red gum flats. As you wander along the management tracks, you might spot western grey kangaroos sheltering in the vegetation or feeding on the grasslands. Keep an eye out for waterfowl and listen for the distinct call of the kookaburra echoing through the red gum woodlands.
Morgan Conservation Park
Morgan Conservation Park features a system of lagoons, swamps, creeks, and Murray River anabranches bordered by river red gum woodlands. Birdlife abounds, including regent parrots, pelicans, and white-faced herons. Keep an eye out for brushtail possums and skinks. The park is accessible to 2WD vehicles, though some tracks can be sandy or slippery when wet.
Each conservation park in the Mid Murray offers a unique experience, from stunning geological formations to rich cultural histories and diverse wildlife. Plan your visit and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of this beautiful region.
Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural history of the Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park, home to the Nganguraku people. This park offers guided tours by the Mannum Aboriginal Community Association, promoting cross-cultural understanding. Experience the park’s picturesque landscape and learn about its historical significance through these insightful tours. Bookings are essential.
Ridley Conservation Park
Located about 10km from Swan Reach, Ridley Conservation Park features flat limestone plains and the high point of Hayward’s Hill. The park’s diverse vegetation includes mallee open woodland and stands of Murray pine. Bird watchers will delight in spotting honeyeaters, mallee ringnecks, purple-crowned lorikeets, and butcher birds. The nearby Big Bend on the Murray River offers spectacular views of colourful cliffs, making it a popular tourist attraction.
Shell Hill Reserve
Step back in time at Shell Hill Reserve, a unique geological site over 5 million years old. Once part of a shallow sea occupying the Murray basin, Shell Hill boasts ancient oyster shell deposits up to six meters thick. These remarkable deposits have been preserved despite past threats, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s prehistoric past.
Swan Reach Conservation Park
Swan Reach Conservation Park showcases Australia’s semi-arid mallee environment. Explore the park’s 2,017 hectares of gently undulating limestone country and thick mallee canopy. Look for signs of the southern hairy-nosed wombat, the park’s primary resident. As part of the River Murray International Dark Sky Reserve, this park is perfect for stargazing, offering unpolluted skies and minimal artificial light.
More Natural Wonders
Scenic lookouts
Mannum Waterfalls
Fossils & granite rock formations
More things to do
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