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Menindee & Lake Pamamaroo Day Trip
This is a proper Darling River country run — long horizons, river towns, lake country and water infrastructure that helps tell the story of how this part of western New South Wales works.
It is a big day, but there is plenty of variety along the way. Start with a stop at Pooncarie, continue on to Menindee, then head out toward Lake Pamamaroo and the inlet regulator for a closer look at the lake system.
Start with a full tank
Distances add up quickly on this run, so leave with a full tank of fuel and do not rely on being able to top up exactly when you want to. Keep an eye on the weather and road conditions too — heat and wind can make a long day feel even longer out here.
What to take
Pack plenty of water, snacks or lunch, a hat and sunnies. If fishing is your thing, throw the rod in as well — the inlet regulator can be a handy place to stop and wet a line while you are out in the lake country.
Stops on this day trip
Four easy stops taking you from Pooncarie through Menindee and out into the lake country.
Stop 1: Old Wharf Café, Pooncarie
Start the day in Pooncarie with a bite at the Old Wharf Café. It is a good place for a coffee, something quick to eat and a breather before tackling the longer stretches further north.
Stop 2: Menindee and the Dam Wall
Once you reach Menindee, grab a feed before heading out to the lakes. If you are after something substantial, the steak sandwich at the Maidens Hotel is a good way to fuel up for the next leg.
Then head out to the Menindee Lakes Dam Wall for a proper look at the scale of the system. It is one of those places where the size of the water infrastructure makes a lot more sense once you are standing there.
Give yourself a little time for photos and a walk along the wall to take in the views.
Stop 3: Lake Pamamaroo Freedom Camping Area
Follow the water out toward Lake Pamamaroo and pull in for a look. Even if you are not camping, it is a good place to park up for a while and take in the open lake-country atmosphere.
It is also a handy spot for a snack break with a view before continuing toward the regulator.
Stop 4: Lake Pamamaroo Inlet Regulator
Finish the run at the inlet regulator. It is a useful place to see how water moves through the system and how flows are controlled across the lake country.
If you packed the fishing rod, this is also a good place to stop and have a flick while you take in the surroundings.
It is the sort of stop that ties the whole day together — river, lakes, water management and the scale of the landscape all in one place.
A big day, but a good one
This is one of those trips where the drive is part of the experience. Give yourself plenty of time, do not rush the stops, and enjoy the change from river-town country into the wide-open Menindee Lakes landscape.
