Paddling the Sunken Forest: An Overnight Glide Through Lake Yarrunga

KANGAROO VALLEY WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE

Paddling the Sunken Forest: An Overnight Glide Through Lake Yarrunga

A self-guided, two-day paddle from Bendeela to the mouth of Yarrunga Creek that guides you through a stand of submerged gum trees and prime freshwater bass country.

Paddling the Sunken Forest: An Overnight Glide Through Lake Yarrunga.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Kangaroo Valley
Operator
Kangaroo Valley Adventure Company
Category
Water Activities
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Sometimes called the Sunken Forest, this self-guided overnight expedition on Lake Yarrunga threads through exposed, once-majestic river gums toward the mouth of Yarrunga Creek — a compact, quiet two-day trip run by the Kangaroo Valley Adventure Company.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LANDSCAPE

The Sunken Forest of Lake Yarrunga

Glide among the ghostly trunks of gums left standing where the water now sits — a still, sheltered waterway that creates the expedition’s defining atmosphere.

THE ROUTE

Bendeela to Beehive Point and Yarrunga Creek

The route runs west from Bendeela toward Beehive Point before turning into the Yarrunga Creek waterway en route to the creek’s mouth, with an identical return to Bendeela.

THE TACKLE

Quiet Bass Water

The sheltered creeks and tree-strewn shoreline make this an outstanding freshwater bass area, with plenty of hide spots favoured by fishers.

What the day feels like

What the two-day overnight feels like

Over two days and one night you’ll paddle well-maintained kayaks or canoes through calm, enclosed water — setting off from Bendeela, sweeping west toward Beehive Point, then slipping into the narrow Yarrunga Creek channel toward its mouth before returning the same way. The trip is self-guided, and the slow-moving waterways and exposed tree trunks create a contemplative, almost otherworldly pace.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this overnight suits — and who should think twice.

1
Families with children (age 6+)The operator indicates the experience is suitable for children aged 6 and up, making it a family-friendly overnight provided participants are comfortable with basic paddling and camping.
2
Couples seeking a quiet getawayThe calm, sheltered creeks and the contemplative Sunken Forest setting make this a strong option for couples wanting a short overnight paddle.
3
Anglers and freshwater fishersThis area is described as outstanding for bass fishing, with sheltered shoreline and many hiding spots for native freshwater sport fish.
4
Independent paddlersBecause the trip is a self-guided expedition, it suits paddlers who are comfortable navigating and organising an overnight camp with supplied kayaks or canoes and lifejackets.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The experience runs two days and one night; plan for an overnight camp and travel to and from Bendeela.

What to Bring

Bring water, hat, wetshoes or change of footwear, sunglasses, food and cooking items, fishing gear, phone/camera, overnight gear (tent and sleeping bag), a gas or fuel stove with fuel, torch and batteries, and a basic first aid kit.

Equipment Provided

Participants are provided with well-maintained, high-quality kayaks or canoes, paddles and lifejackets.

Departure Point

The trip launches from Bendeela and follows the route west toward Beehive Point before entering the Yarrunga Creek waterway.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Lake Yarrunga Overnight Experience?

The trip is two days and one night in duration.

Is this a guided trip or self-guided?

This is a self-guided expedition run by the Kangaroo Valley Adventure Company.

Where does the trip start and finish?

The trip starts and finishes at Bendeela.

Are kayaks, paddles and lifejackets provided?

Yes — participants are provided with well-maintained kayaks or canoes, paddles and lifejackets.

Is fishing allowed on the trip?

The area is noted as an outstanding bass fishing area, so anglers commonly fish these waters; bring your own fishing gear.

What should I bring for the overnight?

Bring overnight camping gear (a tent and sleeping bag), cooking stove and fuel, food and utensils, water, torch and batteries, and a basic first aid kit.

Is there a minimum age for participants?

The experience is suitable for participants aged 6 years and older.