Wilcannia to Bourke . Go on the North side or south side of the Darling ?

Thread 60235

Well its sort of more west and east.

Leave Wilacannia on the west of the river and then cross over at Tilpa

Pretty flat country with trees denoting river. You can't get close to the river except where you cross over. There are a few tracks to the river but probably over private land. Road surface is good for 100kmh(without the van ofcourse).


Cheers

try Trilby station, good camping nxt to river and mud map for the property, do google seach on trilby station. thks steve

Hi Willie,

Have driven both sides and the South (east?) side last week on way back from SA. Frankly, neither side is particularly scenic. South side has better road (although it's track at times, like the north). There is some good free camping near the Capt Sturt sign northeast of Louth, and the HS's of Trilby and Killara both are very hospitable.

A visit to the Tilpa pub is a must especially to read the funnies that have been written on the walls over time (assuming they are still there... last visit was 2002). Leave your own for a coin donation to the RFDS.

Enjoy your trip.

John

Hi Willie,

Did the run last month, have a look at thread 59152, I got lots of helpful suggestions from other contributors.

Congrats on your intention to visit Gundabooka, we only had time for a limited look around including the old shearing shed and quarters, the homestead itself is "off limits" due to it being NPWS Staff Accommodation. Their dog will however, find you out on the off chance of being handed a snack. So much for no dogs in National Parks. Great photo opportunities due to the constantly changing colours on the "mountain", definitely on our list of places to revisit.

As to your original question, I believe the south or east side is the better of the two between Wilcannia and Bourke. Someone who keeps their eyes open will find opportunities for riverside camping in addition to the usually advertised or well known spots. Don't however expect to camp beside the "mighty Darling". I was saddened to see the state of the river downstream from Bourke to Menindee, many stretches of semi stagnant pools and green algae, particularly when you can see from the potential from the hight of the banks.

Great trip, we loved every minute of it and would recommend it to any person who wishes to visit some historic and interesting places in lieu of the usual tourist traps.


Ian.