Follow the rivers from the Victorian border, up through the outback and into lush bushland on the Classic Australian Drive.

Driving from Wentworth to Wagga Wagga, explore New South Wales’s natural inland beauty on the Classic Australian Drive, where you’ll be admiring dynamic granite pillars, sprawling rivers, leafy cycling tracks and outback oases. All there’s left to do is pack a bag and jump in the car.

Wentworth

Begin your journey in Wentworth, where the Murray and Darling rivers intersect. Formerly Australia’s busiest inland port, Wentworth is teeming with history – from paddle-steamers and 19th-century architecture, to ancient landscapes that feel almost primitive. While this is an outback journey into the desert oasis of southern New South Wales, Wentworth is exceptionally lush and green down by the river this time of year thanks to the autumn rains.

Mungo National Park

After a stunning two-hour drive, passing by Mallee Cliffs National Park and driving down a shrub-lined, sandy highway, you’ll arrive at the incredible Mungo National Park. Come to the World Heritage–listed park to discover the ancient landscape in all its glory. This area is home to the oldest human remains ever found in Australia, and the wild, sculpted sand dunes and striking granite outcrops make the landscape feel incredibly spiritual.

Balranald

Once you’ve marvelled at Mungo, it’s time to head back on the road and travel a little more than 90 minutes south to Balranald. The journey here might require some four-wheel driving in parts, largely due to the unsealed roads. But the trek is certainly worth it, as Balranald’s riverside location on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River is a paradise for eager anglers. Alongside the Murrumbidgee, Balranald is also surrounded by five different rivers – all less than a 30-minute drive from town – making it the perfect place to throw in a line.

Yanga National Park

Travel only 40 minutes from Balranald and find yourself in the stunning Yanga National Park. Many opt to stay here for a night beneath the vibrant stars, and it’s easy to see why. Perched upon the Murrumbidgee River, Yanga National Park is abundant in wildlife, with close to 150 different native bird species calling the park home. If you’re less of a twitcher and more of an angler, the river and the ecologically important wetlands are equally plentiful. Regardless of what you’re into, Yanga National Park is an outdoor lover’s paradise, with the ancient, lush desert landscape and the vast blue skyline making for one epic photo opportunity.

This is just a sneak peek! To read about the rest of the journey, check out the Autumn 2023 edition of Caravanning Australia.

_{Image courtesy of Destination NSW}