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Yanga Lake paddle

Yanga National Park

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Overview

Bring your kayak or canoe to Regatta Beach and explore Yanga Lake on your outback trip. The lake is a haven for wildlife and birds drawn to the wetlands in Yanga National Park.

Accessibility
No wheelchair access
Time suggested
3 - 6 hr
Grade
Medium
What to
bring
Drinking water, sunscreen, hat
Please note
  • Yanga Lake is in a reasonably isolated area, so it’s a good idea to bring all your supplies to stay safe.
  • To paddle the lake you must be able to swim. Moderate level of fitness required.

It might sound strange to bring your kayak or canoe on an outback adventure, but you won't regret it when you arrive at Yanga Lake, near Balranald. Drive your kayak over to Regatta Beach picnic area to launch.

If you happen to be staying at The Willows campground or visiting Yanga Woolshed it’s a unique way to get a different perspective on the water birds and wildlife. The lake is frequented by birdwatchers, photographers, paddling enthusiasts, and active families with a taste for remote adventure and energy to burn.

Autumn and spring are the best times to paddle as this is when birds gather for breeding. However, you're likely to spot wedge-tailed eagles, white-bellied sea eagles, black and whistling kites, cormorants and egrets all year round. There's more than feathers to find here though; keep an eye out for emus, kangaroos and a goanna or two.

So, don't just imagine the sense of freedom and tranquillity of gliding through calm waters under the vast outback sky, surrounded by rows of ancient river red gum eucalypts - start planning a trip to Yanga that will inspire your deep connection with this outback landscape.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Nearby

  • Regatta Beach picnic area, Yanga National Park. Photo: Courtesy of Outback Geo Adventures

    Regatta Beach picnic area

    Enjoy swimming, boating, birdwatching and paddling in the tranquil lakeside waters of picturesque Regatta Beach picnic area in Yanga National Park, near Balranald.

  • People at Willows campground and picnic area. Photo: Boris Hlavica/NSW Government

    The Willows campground and picnic area

    The Willows campground in Yanga State Conservation Area has tent, trailer and caravan campsites with picnic tables and barbecues. Great fishing and birdwatching awaits.

  • Yanga Lake viewing deck, Yanga National Park. Photo: David Finnegan © OEH

    Yanga Lake viewing deck

    Yanga Lake viewing deck offers spectacular birdwatching and scenic wetland views in Yanga National Park, near Balranald.

  • Yanga Lake walking track, Yanga National Park. Photo: David Finnegan

    Yanga Lake walking track

    Short yet rewarding, Yanga Lake walking track is a family friendly lakeside walk offering scenic wetlands views and spectacular birdwatching in Yanga National Park.

 

Outback safety

Find out how to stay safe when visiting the outback.

Aerial view of 4WD driving on the red earth in Sturt National Park. Photo: John Spencer/DPIE

 

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A family walk a boardwalk section of Bouddi coastal walk, Bouddi National Park. Photo: John Spencer/OEH.

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