Morgan is a historic town and popular holiday destination on the Murray. If you’re seeking a relaxing experience or into water sports you’ve found the right place. Only 164km North East of Adelaide, Morgan is easily accessible through the Barossa Valley wine region and a stones throw from the Clare Valley wine region and historic mining town of Burra.
Alternatively, if you’re traveling on the Sturt Highway we’re just a short drive from Waikerie and Blanchetown. Morgan was the busiest inland port in South Australia and we’ve preserved our history with great flair. If you’re looking for an authentic country experience including great pubs and relaxing river feel come and discover what makes Morgan a great time for all. With so much to see and do you’ll wonder why you’ve never experience Morgan before. See map.
The Morgan riverfront reserve is a great place to walk around and experience the peaceful nature of the Murray. From here you can explore the wharf, railway history, or wander across near the ferry to the caravan park. The reserve also offers a great chance to swim, park your boat and head up to one of the towns classic country pubs for a great lunch, dinner with a local Cadell wine. Sit under the magnificent gums and have some fish and chips or let the kids go for it on the playground.
Morgan Wharf Built in 1878 this was the hub of all the activity in the town. It is a reminder of the scale of activity, and the level of transportation, which drove the town’s economy at the end of the nineteenth century. This forms part of the classic Morgan Historic Walk.
Morgan offers the best of all worlds when it comes to Murray River houseboating. The river around Morgan is regarded amongst the most picturesque and secluded with many sandy beaches. Morgan on average has more sunny days than the Gold Coast. It is still possible to experience the natural beauty of the Murray River’s flora and fauna. Firewood is also readily available for that great campfire and camp cooking experience (out of fire season). Click here to see houseboat operators in Morgan and take a great break.
Water wonderland. Morgan is a great spot for the water enthusiast. From the convenient boat ramp in town you can launch your watercraft and start the fun. Cruise up and down the Murray, viewing the majestic cliffs which change from side to side. There’s local services for fuel, ice and food and plenty of accommodation including the Morgan Caravan Park or hire a shack and have the Murray at your doorstep.
One thing about Morgan is it’s classic country feel. Big, beautiful, historic pubs that over look the reserve. Call in and have a cool drink or make it lunch and/or dinner. Next to the pubs you’ll find the Morgan Riverview Cafe & Takeaway. After some local organic produce? look out for Mallyons on the Murray Bush Café and Gallery just out of Morgan, that not only sells organic produce, local arts and crafts, but also mouthwatering meals. Only a stones throw from Morgan heading towards Adelaide you’ll find the historic Mt Mary Hotel with a great reputation for excellent food in a classic location but be warned, you’ll need to book ahead as it’s very popular.
The Morgan Historic Museum, located in the old railway buildings on the riverfront, contains an impressive display of memorabilia, much of which relates to the town’s era when it was an important port. This historic precinct captures the early days of river trading. The historic Railway Station once handled an assortment of cargo and passengers transferring from river to rail. For details of opening times contact 08 8540 2641 or 08 8540 2643.
The Landseer Building, once a shipping agents storehouse is filled with a remarkable collection old horse drawn wagons and a display showing the history and development of the Morgan – Whyalla Pipeline. A school room which is used as a reading room, a telephone exchange and a classic 1900’s kitchen in the making. Visit the Morgan Museum and you’ll get an insight to our proud history as once we were Australia’s largest and busiest river ports in the Murray-Darling Basin.
Morgan Conservation Park’s wetlands provide fabulous opportunities for canoeing and appreciating the local birdlife. Set up at a camp or picnic site and let the atmosphere seep in. It boasts a system of lagoons, swamps, creeks and Murray River anabranches bordered by river red gum woodlands. There are numerous species of birdlife inhabiting the park. Look out for the regent parrots, pelicans and white-faced herons. Common brushtail possums can be seen and if you are quiet you might be able to spot skinks darting for cover under dried leaves and dead wood. Driving off designated tracks is not permitted. The park is accessible to 2WD vehicles, however some sections of the main track are sandy or can become slippery when wet. More information.