Rising water levels along the River Murray has prompted the temporary closure of many popular campsites.
The Adelaide Advertiser reports that all Riverland parks campgrounds will now be closed until November 30. The Environment Department has taken the action as unregulated flows inundate flood plains.
However, tourism leaders are reportedly urging people not to be deterred from visiting the region, but rather safely witness the ‘rare and natural event’ and enjoy its other hospitality and tourism offerings.
National Parks and Wildlife Riverland and Murraylands manager Sonia Dominelli, told the Advertiser that some campsites closed in July, as flows reached up to 40GL/day, but all will now close as predictions show the river will reach its highest level in six years.
Heavy rains have caused heavy flows. PIC: Cizza
“The closures are for public safety and the protection of infrastructure as well as allowing environmental recovery of the sites following inundation,” she said.
Campsites to close include Chowilla Game Reserve, Murray River National Park, Loch Luna Game Reserve, Moorook Game Reserve and Morgan Conservation Park.
The hundreds of campers who had bookings at the affected sites will either be refunded or can reschedule their stays.
Rangers will monitor closed campsites and those caught ignoring closure signs or a ranger’s direction face fines of $169 to $244. The maximum penalty is $1000.
Destination Riverland general manager Pamela Canavan said the closures were a precaution and people should not be deterred from visiting as the river “isn’t flooding”.
“We still have so many places to stay across the Riverland … the river levels are a little higher than normal, but it’s the most beautiful time to visit the Murray,” Ms Canavan told the Advertiser. “It’s a rare and natural event, which is great for birdlife, wildlife and it’s a great time to go kayaking in the surrounding creeks … people should drive to vantage points and lookouts to have a look at the river from above, visit our great wineries, gin distilleries, restaurants and cafes.”
Why would you want to camp along a swollen river on sticky, boggy black mud?
A recipe for disaster.