Cooper Creek – current river water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current river water temperature at Cooper Creek in Australia. You can explore recent temperature trends, typical monthly ranges, and historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather conditions, and an overview of how suitable the river is for swimming.

Current Water Temperature

18.9°C

Today

19.0°C

Yesterday

19.6°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Cooper Creek today is 19°C.

Water Temperature in Cooper Creek: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ A river temperature of 15 to 20°C is generally considered cool to comfortable for swimming in Australia. On warm, calm days, this range allows for relaxed swimming and longer time in the water. Comfort depends heavily on air temperature and sunshine, as cooler weather can still make the water feel chilly. This range is popular for river swimming during spring and early autumn.

Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days

Water temperatures in Cooper Creek have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.

According to our forecast, the water temperature in Cooper Creek will be 16.3°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.

Table of Daily Water Temperature Data

Date	Current	Average	Forecast
Apr 28	19.0°C	16.0°C
Apr 29	19.0°C	16.0°C
Apr 30	19.6°C	16.0°C
May 1	19.6°C	16.0°C
May 2	19.6°C	16.0°C
May 3	19.0°C	16.0°C
May 4	19.0°C	16.0°C
May 5	19.0°C	16.0°C
May 6	18.9°C	16.0°C	18.9°C
May 7		16.0°C	18.5°C
May 8		16.0°C	18.2°C
May 9		16.0°C	17.8°C
May 10		16.0°C	17.4°C
May 11		16.0°C	17.0°C
May 12		16.0°C	16.7°C
May 13		16.0°C	16.3°C

* Current - Actual water temperature value

** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years

*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast

Actual river water temperatures may vary by several degrees from the reported values, particularly after heavy rainfall or periods of changing weather. Rainfall, river flow rates, and runoff from cooler upstream areas can significantly affect water temperature, especially in flowing sections and shaded stretches. Air temperature and cloud cover also play an important role, with warm, sunny conditions helping rivers warm up more quickly. As a result, noticeable temperature differences can occur along the same river.

Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that takes into account real-time river temperature changes, historical data, seasonal patterns, river flow conditions, recent rainfall, and local air temperature. We also factor in broader weather conditions specific to each region of Australia to improve accuracy.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Today	Yesterday	A Week Ago
January	22°C	28°C	32°C
February	22°C	28°C	31°C
March	20°C	27°C	31°C
April	16°C	20°C	26°C
May	13°C	16°C	19°C
June	12°C	14°C	15°C
July	11°C	13°C	14°C
August	13°C	16°C	19°C
September	16°C	18°C	20°C
October	19°C	23°C	26°C
November	21°C	25°C	28°C
December	23°C	27°C	30°C

Cooper Creek: Water Temperature by Location

Innamincka

South Australia

18.9°C

Location & Local Information

The Cooper Creek is one of Australia’s classic outback waterways, spreading across vast floodplains rather than flowing as a single, constant channel. Water temperature here is heavily shaped by extreme inland conditions. In summer, from December to February, temperatures in permanent waterholes often sit around 26–32°C, and during prolonged heat they can feel very warm, especially in shallow edges. Spring and autumn are a bit kinder, with water temperatures generally in the 20–26°C range when fresh flows are present. Winter brings cooler conditions, but even then the water usually stays around 14–18°C, particularly in deeper holes that hold water year-round. Because Cooper Creek is intermittent, temperatures can vary sharply between flooded periods and dry years.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in Cooper Creek is generally allowed, but it’s very much a case of knowing where and when. Most swimming happens in permanent waterholes near settlements or well-known camping spots. In summer, the warm water can be inviting, especially after a long hot day in the outback. However, conditions demand caution. Water quality can decline during long dry spells, and algae can sometimes be an issue. There are also steep banks, soft mud, submerged timber and wildlife to consider. With good local advice and by sticking to trusted waterholes, swimming can be refreshing, but it’s never something to approach casually in this part of Australia.

Nearby Rivers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Cooper Creek?

The water temperature in Cooper Creek today is 19°C.

What is the water temperature in Cooper Creek during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Cooper Creek typically range from 22°C to 32°C.

Is it possible to swim in Cooper Creek (Queensland)?

You can swim in some waterholes and stretches of Cooper Creek in inland Queensland when water levels are suitable — locals and visitors often enjoy the creek’s permanent pools during the dry season. However, conditions change quickly, so check local signage or council/ranger advice before entering the water, avoid swimming after heavy rain or if there’s visible blue‑green algae or strong currents, and always swim with a mate and appropriate safety gear.