Hikers · Canoeists · History lovers · Wildlife lovers
Spring and autumn for comfortable temperatures. Summer for canoeing and swimming in the river. Winter can be cold and the gorge sections damp, but the park is virtually empty.
Mitchell River National Park protects one of East Gippsland's wildest landscapes — a deep river gorge where the Mitchell River has carved through ancient rock, a series of spectacular waterfalls, and the Den of Nargun, one of Victoria's most significant Aboriginal cultural sites. Despite being just 4 hours from Melbourne, the park feels genuinely remote and receives a fraction of the visitors of the more famous Gippsland parks.
Why Mitchell River National Park makes a perfect Melbourne weekend getaway
The Mitchell River drains the high country east of the Great Dividing Range and enters its gorge system in the national park, creating a series of spectacular pools, rapids and waterfalls accessible by trail. The Angusvale walking track follows the river through the gorge for 15km, passing the Billy Goat Bend swimming hole and the dramatic Amphitheatre rock formation before reaching the Den of Nargun.
The Den of Nargun is a significant site in Gunaikurnai cultural tradition — a moss-covered cave behind a waterfall on the Mitchell River, said to be the home of a creature (the Nargun) that could not be killed. The site has deep spiritual significance and is approached with appropriate respect on a designated trail from the Angusvale camping area. The cave itself is extraordinary regardless of cultural context — a dripping limestone overhang beside a clear river pool, completely enclosed by rainforest.
The Mitchell River is one of Victoria's best canoeing rivers — a multi-day canoe journey from Dargo to the sea is possible for experienced paddlers, taking 4–6 days through spectacular gorge country. Day paddling from Angusvale is also excellent, with the gorge walls and clear pools creating one of the most beautiful river experiences in Victoria.
Top things to do in Mitchell River National Park
Den of Nargun
A sacred Gunaikurnai site — a moss-covered cave behind a waterfall on the Mitchell River, of deep cultural significance to the traditional owners. Accessible via the Angusvale walking track (3km return from camp). Approach with respect.
Mitchell River Gorge Walk
The Angusvale walking track follows the river through spectacular gorge scenery for 15km — suitable for experienced hikers prepared for overnight camping. Day walkers can access the best sections from Angusvale.
Billy Goat Bend Swimming
A spectacular swimming hole in a bend of the Mitchell River Gorge, accessible from the Angusvale track. Crystal-clear water, natural rock diving platforms, and complete solitude in one of Victoria's most remote gorge settings.
Mitchell River Canoeing
One of Victoria's best multi-day canoe journeys — the Mitchell River from Dargo to the sea passes through extraordinary gorge country over 4–6 days. Shorter day paddles from Angusvale are also excellent.
Angusvale Camping
A remote flat camping area beside the Mitchell River at the gorge entrance — one of the most peaceful camping spots in East Gippsland, with river swimming, excellent birdwatching and night skies undimmed by any light pollution.
Practical tips for your Mitchell River National Park trip
- The Den of Nargun requires a 3km return walk from the Angusvale camping area — allow 2 hours return and bring water.
- The road to Angusvale is unsealed for the last 20km — suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry conditions but check with Parks Victoria after rain.
- The Mitchell River is one of Victoria's best wild swimming rivers — bring a towel and don't rush past Billy Goat Bend.
- The night sky at Angusvale is extraordinary — the park is one of the darkest accessible areas in Victoria with virtually no light pollution.
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