Starting at the Lake Mournpall camping area, this loop walk follows the northern edge of Lake Mournpall before circling north around Lake Konardin passing through River Red Gum flood plains and Mallee dunes. The walk showcases the dramatic changes in vegetation, as you get closer and further away from water. Keep an eye also for the abundant wildlife. Kangaroos and emus can frequently be spotted, as well as a variety of birds, including wedge-tailed eagles, whitebellied sea eagles and whistling kites.
Wildlife enthusiasts should keep their eyes peeled for emus and three kinds of kangaroo (Red, Eastern Grey and Western Grey) especially at dawn and dusk. The park has a rich variety of birdlife ranging from wetland species such as pelicans, ducks and spoonbills to dry mallee specialists such as Mallee fowl and emu wrens. Fishing for Murray Cod and Golden Perch (Yellowbelly) provide good sport for anglers.
Camping
There are two designated campgrounds in the park with basic facilities, including non-flush toilets, fireplaces and picnic tables. They are at Lake Hattah and further north at Lake Mournpall. Advance bookings and payment are required for these sights via the Parks Victoria website. Other river camping areas without facilities are available at Ki Bend, Firemans Bend and Jinkers Bend, all along the Murray at the eastern edge of the park. No booking or fees are required, although these areas are best accessed with a 4WD.
Lake Mournpall Camping Area offers 16 unpowered campsites, suitable for tents, camper trailers, campervans and caravans. Campground facilities include non-flush toilets, fireplaces and picnic tables. Individual campsites cannot be reserved, please select your campsite(s) within the campground on arrival. Advanced bookings and payment are required year-round. Each campsite holds a maximum of six people. Please book multiple sites for bookings of more than six people.
Total distance: 9746 m
Max elevation: 65 m
Min elevation: 44 m
Total climbing: 189 m
Total descent: -189 m
Download file:
Mournpall%20Lake%20Loop.gpx
Hattah-Kulkyne National Park is half way between Ouyen and Mildura, off the Calder Highway. It’s a hefty 5.5 hours’ drive from Melbourne, but only 45 minutes due south of Mildura. Most visitors enter via the Hattah Entrance Road and head directly for the Lake Hattah Campground. The park extends north and east, covering 48,000 hectares, before hitting the Murray River off Hattah–Robinvale Road not far from the small village of Liparoo. Many of the park’s best spots are accessible in a 2WD car, but some tracks are 4WD only. Be especially careful if there’s been recent rain.
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Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Hattah-Kulkyne National Park lies in typical mallee country with extensive low scrub and open native pine woodland. Superbly adapted birds, animals and vegetation thrive in the poor, sandy soils and searing summers. The freshwater Hattah Lakes is seasonally filled by creeks connected to the Murray, providing food and shelter for waterbirds and fish. These lakes can remain full for up to ten years without flooding, but flooding generally occurs once every two years. Camping, walking, bike riding and canoeing are popular here and in the adjoining Murray-Kulkyne Park.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
