Technial issue - NPWS contact centre and Enviroline phone services down

For :

If you’re trying to call the NPWS Contact Centre or Environment Line please try again later as the phones lines are temporarily down.

See details
Back to previous page

Koala reserve

Murrumbidgee Valley Nature Reserve

Open, check current alerts 

Overview

Known to locals as Koala reserve (Narrandera Nature Reserve), is part of Murrumbidgee Valley Nature Reserve and home to over 200 koalas. It’s a great place for walking and cycling.

Type
Picnic areas
What to
bring
Hat, sunscreen, drinking water
Please note
  • Although the majestic river red gums that line Murrumbidgee River create shady picnic spots, try to avoid sitting or standing directly underneath as they are notorious for dropping large branches without warning.
  • Remember to take your binoculars if you want to spot koalas or birdwatch

At Koala reserve, the whole family will love to see hundreds of these iconic Australian animals in the wild. This is an ideal environment for them - river red gums are a great source of food and Murrumbidgee River offers a cooler location on hotter days. Look out for them in branches overhanging the river.

In 1972, at a time when no koalas had been seen around these parts since 1900, koalas were re-introduced into Narrandera district from Victoria and Queensland. Through heatwaves, flooding and fire, a healthy population has survived and there are believed to be well over 200 koalas living in the area.

Koala reserve, as it's known locally, is in Murrumbidgee Valley Nature Reserve (sign-posted as Narrandera Nature Reserve). Roll out a picnic blanket and enjoy lunch on the grass or head to the river where you'll find some picnic tables. Then either take an independent walk or cycle through the reserve to see how many koalas you can spot, or contact Narrandera Visitor Centre for information on tours.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

Park:

Murrumbidgee Valley National Park

Murrumbidgee Valley National Park, situated along the Murrumbidgee River and near Narrandera, Hay and Balranald, is a great place for fishing, camping, kayaking, cycling, hiking and birdwatching.

Wooloondool, Murrumbidgee Valley National Park. Photo: OEH

General enquiries

Operated by

Park info