Moorook Game Reserve

Welcome to Moorook Game Reserve, a protected area in South Australia that covers the floodplain south of the River Murray.

It is located 9 km west of Barmera and 3 km south of Kingston-on-Murray. The game reserve falls under the Hundred of Moorook unit and covers Wachtels Lagoon, known for its native game species and waterfowl. It was proclaimed on 2 September 1976 under the National Parks and Wildlife Act of 1972.

Moorook Game Reserve is situated in the locality of Kingston-on-Murray and Moorook, immediately south of the Sturt Highway. It is about 180 km east-northeast of Adelaide and covers an area of 12.44 sq. km as of 2018. Loch Luna Game Reserve is located north of its boundary.

The reserve is characterized by an extensive open swamp called Wachtel's Lagoon, surrounded by river red gums and box trees. It is an untouched wetland that serves as a significant wildlife habitat, consisting mainly of unmodified natural vegetation.

Managed farming of waterfowl food crops is being planned for development in the southwestern corner of the reserve. This will be done under conservation regulation.

Moorook Game Reserve offers opportunities for river-based activities and camping. Loch Luna Game Reserve is a popular destination for these activities. Controlled open seasons allow shooting of some species.

The game reserve is classified as an IUCN Category VI protected area, with a focus on conserving waterfowl habitats and native game species. It, along with Loch Luna Game Reserve, is an important recreation site for wildlife and nature enthusiasts.

While the managed irrigation drainage and local effluent have an impact on a corner of the reserve, Moorook Game