KANGAROO VALLEY WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Under the Stars: An Overnight Paddle Through Kangaroo Valley’s Sandstone Gorge
A two-day, family-friendly paddle from Tallowa Dam up the Shoalhaven River to camp at Fossickers Flat — this guide explains the route, what to pack, and who the trip suits.
Under the Stars: An Overnight Paddle Through Kangaroo Valley’s Sandstone Gorge.
Adventure brief
Under the Stars: An Overnight Paddle Through Kangaroo Valley’s Sandstone Gorge
Depart mid-morning from Tallowa Dam and paddle upstream on the Shoalhaven River into a towering sandstone gorge, then camp riverside at Fossickers Flat for a single night beneath brilliantly dark Southern skies. The OVERNIGHT: SANDSTONE GORGE EXPERIENCE is a compact two‑day, one‑night expedition: expect a 3–4 hour paddle on the first day, a night of camping, then a mid‑morning strike of camp to return to Tallowa Dam for pickup just after lunch the following day.
Venture into one of New South Wales' most captivating wilderness areas with the Overnight Sandstone Gorge Experience, located at the edge of Kangaroo Valley. This two-day outdoor journey offers families and couples alike a rare chance to connect deeply with the natural world, far removed from the usual hustle. Kangaroo Valley itself is a verdant pocket tucked between the escarpments of the Southern Highlands, rich in rugged sandstone formations and ancient river valleys carved over millennia.
The highlight of this trip is camping among towering sandstone cliffs that frame the pristine river gorge. These dramatic rock walls, sculpted by eons of erosion, provide a secluded backdrop for hiking, swimming, and just soaking in the raw beauty of the wild. After a day of exploring the diverse trails through dry eucalypt forests and shaded pockets of rainforest, evenings reveal the spectacular southern night sky. Without city light pollution, the stars blaze into focus—a compelling reminder of Kangaroo Valley’s remoteness.
Beyond the geological splendor, discover native wildlife including eastern grey kangaroos and colorful cockatoos, perched high along sandstone ledges and in gum trees. Local Indigenous history is subtly woven into the landscape, with traditional connection to Country apparent in natural landmarks and storytelling opportunities.
What makes this experience exceptional is its accessible yet immersive format; the overnight stay lets visitors extend their adventure and deepen their appreciation for the area’s quiet, natural rhythms. This trip is uniquely positioned near Moss Vale Road, just outside Kangaroo Valley township, making it an ideal complement to stays in this charming local village known for its welcoming atmosphere and fresh country produce.
Whether you’re stepping onto well-maintained walking tracks or settling into your tent beneath the stars, the Sandstone Gorge Experience offers a genuine escape. With no distractions, just the thrum of water over rock and the whisper of wind through the trees, this adventure lets you reset and reconnect. Perfect for those seeking a blend of gentle challenge and wilderness comfort, it stands out as a must-book for anyone visiting southeastern Australia’s Southern Highlands.
Embrace this rare chance to camp, hike, and star gaze in one of Kangaroo Valley’s most pristine sandstone havens, just a short drive from Sydney yet worlds away in spirit and scenery.
Route Schematic
Route & Key Stops
The trip moves from a mid‑morning launch at the dam, up the Shoalhaven through sandstone country, to riverside camps at Fossickers Flat, then back to Tallowa Dam.
Tallowa Dam (Launch)
Launch and briefing take place at Tallowa Dam around mid‑morning before paddling upriver.
Shoalhaven River — Sandstone Gorge
Paddle upstream through the sandstone gorge; the on‑water section typically takes three to four hours on day one.
Fossickers Flat (Campsite)
Choose from numerous riverside campsites around Fossickers Flat; some camping spots have National Parks toilets.
Return to Tallowa Dam (Pickup)
Strike camp mid‑morning on day two and paddle back to arrive at Tallowa Dam for pickup just after lunch.
Participants must be aged 6 or older; be prepared for sustained paddling and riverside camping, and note that operators may adjust launch or campsite choices according to conditions.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Family‑friendly, ages 6+
Designed for family groups and couples — the trip accepts participants aged 6 and up and is promoted as great for couples and families.
Riverside camping beneath brilliant stars
Camp options at Fossickers Flat let you sit out the night under Kangaroo Valley’s clear skies and watch the brilliant stars after a day on the water.
Quality paddling gear supplied
Participants are provided with well‑maintained, high‑quality kayaks or canoes, paddles and lifejackets for the expedition.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
Mid‑morning departure from Tallowa Dam sets a relaxed tempo: you paddle for three to four hours up the Shoalhaven, winding through the sandstone gorge before choosing a campsite at Fossickers Flat. After an evening spent beside the river and under the stars, the group breaks camp mid‑morning the next day and returns downstream to Tallowa Dam in time for pickup just after lunch.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Water, hat, wetshoes or change of footwear, sunglasses, food/drinks/snacks, cup/plate/knife/fork, fishing gear, phone/camera, overnight gear (tent and sleeping bag), a gas or fuel stove and fuel, a torch and batteries, and a basic First Aid Kit.
Well‑maintained, high‑quality kayaks or canoes, paddles and lifejackets are supplied to participants.
Bring your own overnight camping gear (tent, sleeping bag), cooking stove and fuel, utensils and personal supplies for an overnight riverside camp.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The experience runs for 2 days and 1 night.
Where and when does the trip depart?
Groups leave from Tallowa Dam around mid‑morning.
How much paddling is involved?
On the first day participants typically paddle for three to four hours upriver through the sandstone gorge.
Are toilets available at the campsite?
Some camping spots around Fossickers Flat have National Parks toilets.
Is gear supplied?
Participants are provided with well‑maintained, high‑quality kayaks or canoes, paddles and lifejackets; personal camping and cooking gear must be brought.
Can I extend the trip beyond one night?
Yes — extra nights can be added to the expedition.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-10T12:13:49.662Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.