Coorong National Park

A lagoon and sand-dune peninsula about 140 km long beyond the mouth of the Murray River, with pelicans gathering on the Ramsar wetland. Cruise the lagoon by boat or climb the dunes for views of the Southern Ocean.

The Coorong National Park lies in southeastern South Australia, about 1–2 hours' drive southeast of Adelaide. It is a narrow lagoon about 140 km long beyond the mouth of the Murray River, separated from the Southern Ocean by the Younghusband Peninsula, a sand-dune peninsula. It is listed as a Ramsar wetland of international importance and is also the traditional land of the Ngarrindjeri people. The park is known for Australian pelicans, black swans and migratory birds from Siberia. The film Little Pelican was shot here. The park can be explored in three sections.

In the north, around Goolwa and Hindmarsh Island, take the Spirit of the Coorong cruise past the Murray mouth, or climb the dunes to walk to the Southern Ocean beach. In the middle, around Meningie, Long Point and Parnka Point, you can camp, go boating and enjoy sunsets. In the south, along the Princes Highway, are the Jacks Point pelican viewing area, Salt Creek, Chinaman's Well and the 42 Mile Crossing. Beyond the dunes lie empty beaches, and the southern end at Kingston SE is known for its giant lobster.

The best birdwatching is during the migratory season from September to April, when the weather is warm. In winter the wind is cool, but boat cruises still run. Getting there: you need to drive. The Princes Highway runs through the park, and some campsites and beaches need a 4WD. Book campsites through the South Australian National Parks website. There are few supply points inside the park, so refuel, carry enough water and bring insect repellent. Plan 1–2 days: one for a Goolwa cruise and one for driving south along the Princes Highway. You can continue on to Robe and the Limestone Coast.

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