Beyond Mildura: Guide to Sunraysia Attractions

When people think of the Sunraysia region, Mildura is usually the first name that comes to mind. It is a fantastic hub, but some of the most spectacular sunraysia attractions lie well beyond the city limits. Step outside the urban boundary and you will find a landscape defined by dramatic red sand dunes, quiet backwaters, expansive lake networks, and deep cultural heritage. For those willing to pack a bag, load up a vehicle, and head out on the highway, the wider Sunraysia region offers an unfiltered taste of the Australian outback.

As locals who have been guiding groups across these riverways and dirt tracks for over 25 years, the team at Wildside Outdoors knows that the true magic of this region lies in its diversity. Founded by Allan Hassell and Ian Smith, and led today by Thomas Floyd, we have spent decades exploring every bend of the Murray River and every corner of the Mallee scrub. Here is our insider guide to the best attractions in the wider Sunraysia region, built for those who love to get active and explore.

The Confluence and Clay of Wentworth

Located roughly 30 kilometres west of Mildura, the historic town of Wentworth sits at the junction of Australia's two greatest river systems, the Murray and the Darling. Watching the two rivers meet is a remarkable sight. The Darling, often carrying a milky clay warmth, collides with the colder, clearer waters of the Murray, creating a distinct visual boundary in the water that can stretch for hundreds of metres downstream.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the junction is best experienced from the water level. Paddling near the confluence allows you to feel the scale of these massive river systems. However, the water here requires respect. The currents can be unpredictable where the two rivers merge, particularly when the Darling is in high flow. We recommend sticking close to the banks if you are inexperienced, or opting for a guided trip if you want to explore the deeper channels.

Just a short drive outside Wentworth lie the Perry Sandhills. These striking red sand dunes cover roughly 400 acres and are a geological marvel, formed over thousands of years by wind erosion. They are a brilliant spot for an afternoon walk, offering a stark, desert-like contrast to the lush river red gum forests just a few kilometres away. If you want to explore both the rivers and the surrounding trails, organizing kayak, canoe and mountain bike hire before you leave Mildura is the best way to ensure you have the gear you need for a full day of adventure.

Tranquility at Lake Cullulleraine

Heading further west along the Sturt Highway, about 55 kilometres from Mildura, you will find the peaceful township and waters of Lake Cullulleraine. Originally a natural depression, the lake was developed to assist with regional irrigation and has since become a premier recreational sanctuary in the semi-arid Mallee country.

Unlike the moving currents of the Murray River, Lake Cullulleraine offers exceptionally safe, calm, and flat-water conditions. This makes it the ultimate destination in the region for novice paddlers, stand-up paddleboarders, and families looking for a relaxed day on the water. The shoreline is ringed by established walking and cycling tracks, including the popular Johanna Guildy Trail, which winds through native vegetation and provides excellent birdwatching opportunities.

For those looking to truly immerse themselves in the quiet of the western Sunraysia, spending a night or two by the water is highly recommended. The lake acts as a base for our specialized Lake Cullulleraine camp programs, which we use to introduce school groups and private parties to the joys of outdoor recreation in a controlled, supportive environment.

The Wilderness of Hattah-Kulkyne National Park

If your idea of an adventure involves deep wilderness, ancient trees, and star-filled night skies, head 70 kilometres south of Mildura to Hattah-Kulkyne National Park. This Ramsar-listed wetland system is a maze of seasonal lakes, black box forests, and rolling sand dunes. It is one of the most ecologically significant areas in Victoria.

When the Murray River rises, it feeds a chain of freshwater lakes here, attracting thousands of waterbirds, from spoonbills to majestic sea eagles. During drier periods, the park reveals a quiet, resilient beauty that is perfect for bushwalking and self-guided cycling. The landscape is vast and can feel incredibly remote, so preparation is key. There is no reliable drinking water within the park, meaning you must carry all your own supplies, including recovery gear for your vehicle.

Paddling through the flooded timber of the Hattah Lakes when they are full is a bucket-list experience for any Australian kayaker. For those looking for a fully managed wilderness experience, our Hattah camp and multi-day expeditions offer an educational and safe way to navigate this complex, beautiful ecosystem under the guidance of experienced instructors.

Red Cliffs and Kings Billabong

You do not have to travel hours to find great Sunraysia attractions outside Mildura. Just 15 kilometres south-east of the city lies the town of Red Cliffs, named after the dramatic, 70-metre-high red clay cliffs that tower over the Murray River. The scenic lookout at the edge of town offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the river winding through the agricultural flats.

Adjacent to Red Cliffs is Kings Billabong, a wildlife reserve that serves as a vital sanctuary for waterbirds, swamp wallabies, and diverse reptile species. The billabong features a gently winding 9.5-kilometre walking loop that takes you past historic steam-era pumps once used for irrigation. The calm, sheltered waters of the billabong are also ideal for a relaxed paddle, sheltered from the wind and heavy boat traffic of the main river channel.

Planning Your Journey Across Sunraysia Attractions

To get the most out of your journeys beyond Mildura, it is important to plan around the unique climate and river conditions of the Mallee region:

• Seasons: Autumn (March to May) and Spring (September to November) are the goldilocks seasons. Daytime temperatures are mild, and the winds are generally light. Winters are crisp and clear, perfect for campfires and hiking, while summers can easily exceed 40 degrees Celsius, requiring early morning starts and plenty of hydration.
• Water Safety: Always wear a lifejacket (PFD) when on the water. Even seemingly calm river stretches can have powerful undertones and submerged snags.
• What to Pack: High-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, insect repellent, sturdy footwear for prickles and rough ground, and a reliable navigation map, as mobile reception can be patchy once you enter the national parks.

Whether you are a teacher looking to organize structured outdoor education for schools, a corporate group wanting to build resilience, or a family seeking a quiet weekend escape, the wider Sunraysia region has an adventure waiting for you.

Ready to plan your next journey into the wild country surrounding the Murray? We would love to share our local knowledge and help you arrange the perfect itinerary or equipment hire. Please reach out to Thomas and the team today via our contact us page to start planning your adventure.