SUPing at Mannum

We were lucky enough to be travelling with a Fanatic Inflatable SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard), and the Mannum Caravan park on the banks of the Murray River was the perfect spot to launch. The grassed areas at the water's edge make it easy to get in and out of the water. One side of the Mannum Caravan Park fronts onto Hermann Gass Bird Sanctuary - a wetland area along the Murray River that is protected from the main channel by gum trees and reeds growing in the water. There are no motor boats here and the water is relatively calm.

We paddled around the bird sanctuary exploring the river grasses and came across a beautiful family of swans and pelicans perched on old wooden planks sticking out of the water. You can also paddle across the river to a houseboat mooring, make sure you keep a close eye on the ski boats and ferries using this busy section of the river. (There are two vehicular ferries at Mannum and you must be aware of cables and rules for travelling across their path). NOTE: it is a requirement to wear a life jacket when paddling on the Murray River in South Australia. 

The Fanatic inflatable SUP fits into a relatively small bag which is carried on the back seat of the car. It is easily inflated and deflated and very stable on the water - what a great way to explore the wonderful rivers and lakes around Australia.  RvTrips would definitely recommend SUPing on the Murray River at Mannum.