The Murray and Inland Lakes
Come Summertime, so many holidaymakers are flocking to the coast for sand and sea. But if you head in the opposite direction, you’ll find our great lakes and rivers are a refreshing alternative. These beautiful waterways not only offer reprieve from the beating sun, but are aquatic playgrounds for fishing, boating, waterskiing and kayaking. Look inland for your next summer break at these incredible holiday parks.
The rural town of Deniliquin, located a 3.5-hour drive north of Melbourne, is most famous for the annual Deni Ute Muster – a country and rock music festival that celebrates the iconic Aussie ute. But beyond this epic event, this town is a natural splendour, where the tranquil Edward River cuts through expansive country plains. On the banks, multi-award-winning BIG4 Deniliquin Holiday Park offers riverfront cabins, glamping safari-style tents and camp sites. There’s a boat ramp and two pontoon boats to hire, so you can get out on the water and perhaps try fishing for Murray cod. Back on dry land, there’s go-karting, a flying fox, pump track, heated pool, splash park and waterslide to keep the entire family in good spirits. After action-filled days, the large grassy waterfront area is prime position for languid afternoons with sundowners.
This holiday park is positioned for a summer break that’s a rich in history, charming rural scenery and riverside pleasures. Just 2.5 hours north of Melbourne, Discovery Maidens Inn is nestled on the mighty Murray River in Moama, which together with twin town Echuca once made up Australia’s largest inland port. It’s also home to the largest fleet of operating paddle steamers; hop aboard one of these restored riverboats from the nostalgic Port of Echuca, where streets filled with centuries-old buildings will transport you to yesteryear. Mix up your historical meanderings in town with some family fun back at Discovery Maidens Inn, which has a bouncing pillow, playground, swimming pool and waterpark. Or spend quiet moments on the riverside beach, cooling off in the waters and chilling out in the shade of towering river red gums.
Almost smack bang in the middle between Melbourne and Canberra (a 3.5-hour drive from each) Discovery Parks Lake Hume is the ultimate water-play destination. Boating, waterskiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, stand-up paddling boarding, fishing for Murray cod or rainbow trout – you name it, this impressive waterhole is your launching point. Located in the village of Lake Hume NSW, Discovery Lake Hume is just 15 minutes from the twin towns of Albury Wodonga and 45 minutes from the Gold Rush town of Beechworth. But there’s really no reason to leave, with pedal kart hire, a bouncing pillow, tennis court, swimming pool and a convenient kiosk on-site.
Summer is for escaping the daily grind and this New England holiday park five hours north-west of Sydney and four hours from Newcastle is the ultimate respite from busy city life. Aside from its water-based fun – including kayaking, sailing and fishing – Lake Keepit is known for its spectacular stargazing thanks to wide, open country skies that are uninterrupted by light pollution. Reflections Lake Keepit is set to become a celestial hotspot, with a multi-million-dollar ‘Big Sky Dreaming’ glamping precinct under construction. It will feature eight large stargazing tents and a Star Lounge, where events, Aboriginal storytelling and cultural activities will be held. Add to this the existing fun-filled facilities, such as a skate park, volleyball and tennis courts, waterplay area and bike track, and Reflections Lake Keepit is an all-round winner.
Don’t dismiss the Snowy Mountains when the white powder has melted. This region is a summer playground waiting to be explored. Located five hours from Sydney and just two hours from Canberra, Jindabyne is a watersport, fishing, biking and hiking mecca. Located on the picturesque shores of Lake Jindabyne, NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park is in a prime position for exploring the alpine lake – which is a breathtaking scene at sunrise – and is only a short walk into town for ample drinking and dining options. The park has just launched two new accommodation options: luxe Tiny Homes, which sleep up to four, and contemporary Studios, which sleep two. The park also has two ‘Glamtainers’ (converted shipping containers) as well as villas and campsites along the lake.
