Kangaroo Valley: A Stunning Day Trip from Jervis Bay
Kangaroo Valley is one of the most beautiful places in all of NSW — a deep, lush valley carved by the Kangaroo River into the Illawarra escarpment, just one hour from Huskisson. The valley floor is extraordinarily green and fertile, with the historic village of Kangaroo Valley providing a charming base for exploring. The Hampden Bridge — one of the oldest surviving suspension bridges in Australia — spans the river at the village entrance. For Jervis Bay visitors wanting to experience the hinterland beauty of the Shoalhaven rather than spending every day at the beach, a Kangaroo Valley day trip is an outstanding option.
| Distance from Huskisson | Approximately 1 hour (via Nowra and Cambewarra Mountain) |
|---|---|
| Highlights | Hampden Bridge, Kangaroo River kayaking, Fitzroy Falls |
| Best For | Scenic drives, river kayaking, historic village, nature |
| Combined With | Fitzroy Falls (15 min from the valley) |
Kangaroo Valley Village
The village of Kangaroo Valley is small but charming — a handful of cafes and restaurants, the iconic Hampden Bridge, the Pioneer Farm Museum (a living history museum set on a historic property), and the entrance to the Budderoo National Park. The Kangaroo Valley Pub is a beloved local institution for lunch or a drink. The setting is extraordinary — the valley walls rise steeply on all sides, giving the village an enclosed, peaceful atmosphere that feels very different from the coastal experience at Jervis Bay.
Kayaking and River Activities
The Kangaroo River provides excellent kayaking through the valley floor, with several operators offering kayak and canoe hire from the river access points. The river is generally flat and calm through the valley, making it accessible for families with children. Paddling under the Hampden Bridge and along the green, tree-lined riverbanks is a beautiful experience. Swimming holes in the river are popular in summer, though always assess conditions and water depth before swimming.
Fitzroy Falls
Fitzroy Falls, approximately 15 minutes from Kangaroo Valley village, is a spectacular 80-metre waterfall over the escarpment edge into Morton National Park — one of the most impressive waterfalls in NSW. The lookouts above the falls provide dramatic views across the forested plateau below. The falls are at their most impressive after good rainfall. Combine Fitzroy Falls with the Kangaroo Valley village in a single day for a comprehensive hinterland experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Kangaroo Valley worth visiting from Jervis Bay?
- Absolutely — it's one of the most beautiful places in NSW and provides a wonderful contrast to the beach experience at Jervis Bay. The 1-hour drive through the escarpment is itself spectacular.
- Can you swim in the Kangaroo River?
- Yes — there are popular swimming holes in the Kangaroo River, particularly near the village. Always assess conditions, check water depth, and be aware of any current before swimming.