Uriarra Crossing

Murrumbidgee River, Corree ACT

There are several swimming spots along the Murrumbidgee River at the three picnic areas in the vicinity of Uriarra Crossing. The best of these is the sandy beach at Uriarra East Picnic Area, because it is protected somewhat from the river currents by a rock barrier that extends out into the river immediately upstream. Above: The river crossing at Uriarra Crossing (Order this image)

All three picnic areas are within a few hundred metres of each other, so you can readily move between them by car. You can also swim between Uriarra East and West during low river flow periods. Uriarra West Picnic Area has mainly rock outcrops except for a small beach at the southern end. Swamp Creek Picnic Area also has a small section of beach, with the river spreading out a little wider here.

The river is typically lower and the current less swift in late summer and early autumn, with the visibility in the water reasonably good under these flow conditions. However if you are coming for a swim in spring, expect the river to be higher, the water muddier and the current swifter, which will make it more difficult to swim upstream, and more difficult to see the submerged rocks around the Uriarra West Picnic Area. The Murrumbidgee River can swell considerably during floods, when you should stay out of the water here at those times.

Apart from swimming, this site is also enjoyable for a picnic at any of the three areas, or for a walk along the river on one of several walking trails. The 2 km Uriarra Loop is a pleasant walk that starts and ends at the Uriarra East Picnic Area and takes you near the Molongolo River junction with the Murrumbidgee.

This swimming spot is a designated dog off-leash area, so don't be surprised if you are sharing the water with a pooch. If you are a dog owner, make sure you clean up after your dog, so that no one has to swim in its poo. Note that dogs are not allowed on the nearby walking trails (Uriarra Loop, Woodstock and Shepherds Lookout walking trails). Before you head out, make sure to read the swimming safety information and check with the managing authority for any current change of conditions. Water quality in the Canberra area can sometimes be unsuitable for swimming. For regular updates on whether the water quality at this site is suitable for swimming, see the ACT Government's water quality alerts. As a general rule, avoid swimming here after rain due to agricultural runoff from upstream areas (i.e. poo, fertilisers, herbicides, pesticides, etc.). The managing authority also advises that mobile phone reception is not reliable throughout the Murrumbidgee River corridor, so do not depend on your phone for safety or directions. The marker indicates the approximate location of the beach at the Uriarra East Picnic Area. If the map is not zoomed in locally, as can sometimes occur when loading, simply click or tap on "View Larger Map" below.
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