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One of Australia’s great driving adventures

Discover the Darling River and Experience Outback NSW


Directory | 150+ Locations

Discover the Darling River Run Attractions

The Darling River Run Discovery Directory - Discover attractions and activities, camping locations, where to stay, eat & drink, supplies, services and more.

The Darling River Run

The Darling River Run is a thin, winding line describing a route through the NSW outback, characterised by landscape, history, culture, literature and adventure. Taken as a whole, or in its various component parts, the route provides an opportunity to see the real Australian Bush and experience some safe and easy off-road driving, connect with Aboriginal culture and iconic Towns & Locations along the Darling River, and drench yourself in the history, and contemporary life of a part of the country that is central to the national psyche.

About the Darling River Run

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The Darling River Run | Outback NSW | Brochure

Explore the Towns of the Darling River

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The Darling River is the third longest river in Australia and is the lifeblood of Outback NSW. Only a small percentage of the Darling’s water comes from within the Western Catchment - the majority of “fresh” enters the system from Queensland rains (rain falling west of the Divide in Queensland). Be sure during your drive that you call in to the Visitor Information Centres in each township and chat with the friendly staff who are knowledgeable on the best vantage points, local attractions, river history and updated road conditions.

The Darling River Run Social News

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🚤 Have you heard the news?
The Jandra is trialling a brand-new 2-hour Saturday cruise, and she’s setting sail this morning at 11am!

Pack a picnic (we recommend scones, jam & cream 😋), help yourself to a complimentary cuppa, and watch the world float by — the perfect way to spend a sunny Saturday while the weather’s still playing nice!

🎟️ Tickets available at the Back O’ Bourke Information & Exhibition Centre, or just head down to the river about 10 minutes before departure and grab yours onboard.

⛴️ November is our last month of sailing for the year — don’t be the one saying “I wish I’d gone!” when she’s docked for the season! 😉

#backobourke #PVJandra #visitbourke #DarlingRiverRun #outbackcruise
Jandra Paddle Vessel
Visit Bourke
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🌅 The sunset fades, but the sky keeps painting.

When the colours linger, the water calms, and the world feels perfectly still - Lake Pamamaroo, Menindee 13/4/25.

#DarlingRiverRun #LakePamamaroo #MenindeeMagic

🌅 The sunset fades, but the sky keeps painting.

When the colours linger, the water calms, and the world feels perfectly still - Lake Pamamaroo, Menindee 13/4/25.

#DarlingRiverRun #lakepamamaroo #menindeemagic
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3 CommentsComment on Facebook

I took this drone footage 2 weeks ago as the sun was setting stunning 😍

Great spot

Superb

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🚗💨 Planning your 2026 road trip? The Darling River Run is where it’s at! 🌅

This iconic outback route hugs the Darling River, winding through red dirt country, wide-open skies, and stories that stick with you long after you’ve left.

✨ Start west! Cruise through Toorale National Park, drop a line in the river, and stay a few nights at Dunlop or Trilby Station – both are packed with outback charm and history.

🌿 Then loop back east! Discover ancient Aboriginal rock art at Gundabooka National Park, pull up at one of the many free campsites, and don’t miss Louth or Rose Isle Farm Stay for a true taste of country hospitality.

🗺️ Why not do the full loop? One week west, one week east – twice the adventure, double the memories.

Image credit: Darling River Run
#bucketlistadventure #BackOBourke #Bourke #darlingriverrun

#VisitBourke #DarlingRiverRun #BackOBourke #OutbackNSW #RoadTripAustralia #FarmStay #ExploreNSW #VisitNSW #Travel2026
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🌳 Along the banks of the Darling River at the Wanderers Crossing River Retreat  at #Wentworth stands a living piece of history - Sturt’s Tree.

In January 1830 Captain Charles Sturt weighed anchor opposite Sturt’s Tree when he reached the confluence of the Darling and Murray Rivers.

The plaque reads In late January 1830 Capt. Charles Sturt in his Whaleboat weighed anchor opposite this tree. He hoisted his flag to celebrate the discovery of the junction of the Darling and Murray Rivers.

When youre next #OutOnTheRun, take a moment to stand beneath the branches of this tree, listen to the river flow, and reflect on the journeys that shaped the outback we explore today.

#DarlingRiverRun #SturtsTree Experience Wentworth

🌳 Along the banks of the Darling River at the Wanderers Crossing River Retreat at #Wentworth stands a living piece of history - Sturt’s Tree.

In January 1830 Captain Charles Sturt weighed anchor opposite Sturt’s Tree when he reached the confluence of the Darling and Murray Rivers.

The plaque reads 'In late January 1830 Capt. Charles Sturt in his Whaleboat weighed anchor opposite this tree. He hoisted his flag to celebrate the discovery of the junction of the Darling and Murray Rivers.'

When you're next #OutOnTheRun, take a moment to stand beneath the branches of this tree, listen to the river flow, and reflect on the journeys that shaped the outback we explore today.

#DarlingRiverRun #SturtsTree Experience Wentworth
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3 CommentsComment on Facebook

time for up grade on this monument.

Beautiful country 🇦🇺❤️❤️

Corey O'Neill

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Happening now: Look up Menindee !!! ... See MoreSee Less

3 CommentsComment on Facebook

This is what it should have been 😂

Can’t stand auto correct

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🐦 Birdwatching in the Back O’ Bourke Region 🌿

If slowing down and soaking up the sounds of nature is your kind of adventure, then birdwatching is the perfect Outback pastime!
From sunrise at Mount Oxley to the shady gardens of the Back O' Bourke Information & Exhibition Centre, you’ll be surrounded by feathered locals in every colour imaginable.

🪶 Top birdwatching spots around Bourke:
• Mount Oxley
• Back O’ Bourke Information & Exhibition Centre
• Bourke Wharf Precinct
• Bourke Lock and Weir
• Trilby Station
• Dunlop Station (Louth NSW)
• Gundabooka National Park
• Toorale National Park
• Brindingabba National Park
• Rose Isle Station

Pack your binoculars, a thermos, and a good dose of patience — the Outback skies are full of life! ☀️

#backobourke #visitbourke #outbackbirdwatching #naturelovers #destinationnsw #seensw #birdwatchingaustralia
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The Darling River Run