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Gurranyin (Eagle) campground, Moama NSW

Gurranyin (Eagle) campground, Moama NSW

Gurranyin (Eagle) campground is a stunning new addition to the Murray Valley National Park, offering a superb bush camping experience that beautifully blends modern accessibility with a deep respect for culture and nature. Named using the local Yorta Yorta language word for the majestic wedge-tailed eagle, this campground provides a serene escape amongst the iconic river red gums and box eucalypts. It is a fantastic destination for self-sufficient campers looking to immerse themselves in the unique riverine environment of the Murray. The campground has been thoughtfully designed with well-spaced, designated sites that provide a good level of privacy, allowing you to feel truly connected to the surrounding forest.

The facilities at Gurranyin are a cut above typical bush camps, featuring clean, non-flushing toilets, wood barbecues, and picnic tables. A key highlight is its focus on accessibility, with features designed to assist visitors with mobility needs, making this beautiful part of the park available to more people. This is a back-to-nature experience where the days are filled with the sounds of the abundant birdlife, and the evenings are perfect for sitting around a campfire under a vast, starry sky. Campers must come prepared, bringing their own drinking water and firewood, and must follow the ‘leave no trace’ principle by taking all rubbish home.

The campground’s location is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a fantastic base for bushwalking and cycling through the national park’s extensive network of trails. It is also just a short distance from the mighty Murray River, offering easy access for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. While it feels like a secluded wilderness retreat, it’s only a short drive from the historic twin towns of Echuca and Moama, with their famous paddlesteamers, museums, and excellent dining options. Bookings are essential for this popular and culturally significant campground.

Gurranyin (Eagle) campground – NSW Location Map

Gurranyin (Eagle) campground
Murray Valley National Park, Moama NSW 2731
GPS Coordinates: -36.05706, 144.62515

Site Information

  • Location: In the Murray Valley National Park, a short drive from Moama.
  • Site Suitable For: Tents, Camper Trailers, and small-to-medium Campervans.
  • Road Access: Unsealed park roads, generally 2WD accessible in dry weather.
  • Site Surface: Compacted earth/gravel pads for each site.
  • Camping Permitted: Yes, unpowered sites only. Online booking in advance is mandatory.
  • Maximum Overnight Stays: Check the NPWS booking website for current limits.
  • Number of Powered Sites: None.
  • Number of Un-powered Sites: 15 designated bookable sites (10 drive-in, 5 walk-in).

Facilities

  • Facilities: Non-flushing (pit) toilets, wood-fired BBQs, picnic tables. No showers.
  • Picnic Tables: Yes.
  • Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own drinking water.
  • Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited and patchy.
  • TV Reception: Poor to non-existent.
  • Onsite Public Toilets: No.
  • Ullage: No.
  • Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
  • Open Fires: Permitted in provided BBQs only, subject to fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
  • Generator Use: Prohibited.

Essentials & Activities

  • Essentials to Bring: All food and drinking water, rubbish bags, firewood, insect repellent, hiking boots, bicycle.
  • Pet Friendly: No. Domestic animals are not permitted in the National Park.
  • Fishing: Excellent fishing opportunities in the nearby Murray River.
  • Short Walks: Direct access to the park’s network of walking and cycling trails.

Local Amenities

  • Local Pubs:
    • Moama Bowling Club (approx. 15 km)
    • The Border Inn Hotel, Moama (approx. 15 km)
    • American Hotel, Echuca (approx. 16 km)
  • Places to Eat: A huge range of excellent pubs, restaurants, and cafes in Echuca and Moama.
  • Local Attractions:
    • The Murray River
    • Port of Echuca Discovery Centre and Paddlesteamers
    • The Great Aussie Beer Shed
    • National Holden Motor Museum
  • Nearest Caravan Parks:
    • Rich River Golf Club
    • A huge number of parks are located in Echuca and Moama.
  • Next Free Camps: Low-cost camping at Victoria Park, Echuca. Various reserves along the Murray River (check local rules).
  • Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Moama and Echuca.
  • Nearest Petrol Station: Several major service stations in Moama.
  • Drinking Water Resupply: Moama or Echuca.
  • Public Toilets: Available onsite.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

  • Summer (Dec – Feb): Hot and dry. Daytime temperatures regularly exceed 30°C. High fire danger period.
  • Autumn (Mar – May): Widely considered the best time to visit. Days are warm and sunny, with mild, pleasant nights. Perfect for hiking and cycling. Temperatures average 10°C to 25°C.
  • Winter (Jun – Aug): Cool to cold. Days are often crisp and sunny, but nights can be very cold with frosts. Temperatures range from 3°C to 15°C.
  • Spring (Sep – Nov): A beautiful season as the riverine forest comes to life. Days are pleasantly warm. Temperatures average 8°C to 24°C.

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