25 Best Camp Sites For Free Camping In Echuca

The best sites for free camping in Echuca for 2024. Top locations, tips & essential information. Echuca is a riverside town alongside the Murray River in Victoria Australia. Echuca blends history and natural beauty with recreational activities. Known for its paddle steamers and historic port Echuca is a popular destination for campers seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure. In this article outline the best free camping spots in and around Echuca.

We’ll chuck in some tips for an enjoyable camping experience and showcase some of the must see attractions in the area.

Reasons Why You Should Give Free Camping In Echuca A Go

Free camping in Echuca provides a unique opportunity to experience Echuca’s natural beauty and historic charm without the cost and overcrowding associated with traditional caravan parks. Here are some of the key reasons why free camping in Echuca is so appealing worth a go.

• Cost Effective: Save money on accommodation, leaving more in your budget for activities and dining.
• Scenic Location: Enjoy picturesque views of the Murray River and surrounding bushland.
• Peace and Tranquillity: Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and unwind in a serene environment.
• Adventure and Exploration: Engage in activities like fishing, hiking, and birdwatching right from your campsite.

Benarca Campground Free Camping In Echuca

Best Free Camping Spots in Echuca

1. Djarring (White Cockatoo)

Located within Benarca (Murray Valley Regional Park). Flat campground with steep access to water. Plenty of shade. Booking required. There is some Telstra reception.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Benarca Forest Rd, Moama, New South Wales / ACT
GPS: -36.059452°, 144.611957°
Web: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/camping-and-accommodation/campgrounds/benarca-campground
Distance From Echuca: 22km
Pet Friendly: No

2. Benarca Beach Camp Site

Benarca precinct provides bush camps and is an ideal spot to fish right along Murray River in Murray Valley Regional Park not far from Echuca.

• Bookings are not required at this campground.
• Campsites are available on a first-in first-served basis.
• Sites are unpowered and unmarked.
• Benarca campground can be muddy following rain.

Benarca campground is in the Benarca precinct of Murray Valley National Park. To get there;

• From Moama, head north along Cobb Highway.
• Turn left onto Perricoota Road and continue for approximately 15km; it becomes Moama-Barnham Road.
• Turn left onto Benarca Forest Road and follow the signs to the campground

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Sarandu Road, Wharparilla, Victoria
GPS: -36.071431°, 144.612352°
Phone: 1300 072 757
Email: [email protected]
Web: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/camping-and-accommodation/campgrounds/benarca-campground
Distance From Echuca: 23km
Pet Friendly: Yes

3. Benarca (Sand Hill) Campground

Benarca precinct provides bush camps and is an ideal spot to fish right along Murray River in Murray Valley Regional Park, only 15km from Moama. Enjoy a walk along the river, mountain bike ride at the nearby Five Mile mountain bike trail, or a spot of birdwatching. For those who don’t mind getting their feet wet, there’s paddling, fishing and swimming. Its location in Murray Valley Regional Park means it’s dog friendly too, so your four-legged friends are welcome to join in on the family camping trip. The town of Echuca is nearby so its easy to head in for an evening meal or to pick up some supplies. You’ll also find museums and galleries and it’s the place to book a trip along the Murray on a paddle steamer.

• Bookings are not required at this campground.
• Campsites are available on a first-in first served basis.
• Sites are unpowered and unmarked.
• Benarca campground can be muddy following rain.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Benarca Forest Rd, Moama, New South Wales / ACT
GPS: -36.071328°, 144.619745°
Web: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/murray-valley-national-park/benarca-campground/camping
Distance From Echuca: 23km
Pet Friendly: Yes

4. Millers Rise

Millers Rise offers free camping in Echuca (or pretty close to it) within the Benarca precinct. It is an ideal spot to fish right along Murray River in Murray Valley Regional Park, only 15km from Moama. Enjoy a walk along the river, mountain bike ride at the nearby Five Mile mountain bike trail, or a spot of birdwatching. For those who don’t mind getting their feet wet, there’s paddling, fishing and swimming. Its location in Murray Valley Regional Park means it’s dog friendly too, so your four-legged friends are welcome to join in on the family camping trip. The town of Echuca is nearby so its easy to head in for an evening meal or to pick up some supplies. You’ll also find museums and galleries and it’s the place to book a trip along the Murray on a paddle steamer.

• Bookings are not required at this campground.
• Campsites are available on a first-in first served basis.
• Sites are unpowered and unmarked.
• Millers Rise campground can be muddy following rain.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Murray River, New South Wales / ACT
GPS: -36.064247°, 144.620269°
Phone: 1300 072 757
Email: [email protected]
Web: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/camping-and-accommodation/campgrounds/benarca-campground
Distance From Echuca: 22km
Pet Friendly: Yes

5. Emu Bend Wharparilla

Dispersed bush camping beside the Murray River, in the Murray River Reserve. There are no facilities, campers must be self-sufficient. Take all rubbish with you and leave no trace.

• This site is accessible to tents and camper trailers. You won’t get a caravan in here.
• Pets are not permitted.
• Avoid resting, picnics or camping under or close to trees. They may drop heavy branches at any time without warning.

The Upper Murray parks and reserves are in the North-East fire ban district. Bushfire safety is a personal responsibility. Anyone entering parks and forests during the bushfire season needs to stay aware of forecast weather conditions. Check for the Fire Danger Rating and days of Total Fire Ban at www.cfa.vic.gov.au or call the Vic Emergency Hotline on 1800 226 226. On Code Red Fire Danger Rating days these parks will be closed for public safety. Do not expect an official warning. Check the latest conditions at www.parks.vic.gov.au or by calling 13 1963

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Unnamed Road, Wharparilla, Victoria
GPS: -36.061088°, 144.623290°
Phone: 13 19 63
Web: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/sites/emu-bend-site-1-
Distance From Echuca: 19km
Pet Friendly: No

6. Shaes Bend

Small area off the main track suitable for camper trailer and small caravans. Medium or larger caravans won’t get in (or out). Max 1-2 cars/caravans in area. Easy access to water down a few steps.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Wharparilla, Victoria
GPS: -36.062088°, 144.625254°
Distance From Echuca: 18km
Pet Friendly: Yes

Casey Bend Free Camping In Echuca

7. Benarca Camp

Benarca Camp provides free camping in Echuca (or pretty close to it) within the Benarca precinct. It is an ideal spot to fish right along Murray River in Murray Valley Regional Park, only 15km from Moama. Enjoy a walk along the river, mountain bike ride at the nearby Five Mile mountain bike trail, or a spot of birdwatching. For those who don’t mind getting their feet wet, there’s paddling, fishing and swimming. Its location in Murray Valley Regional Park means it’s dog friendly too, so your four-legged friends are welcome to join in on the family camping trip. The town of Echuca is nearby so its easy to head in for an evening meal or to pick up some supplies. You’ll also find museums and galleries and it’s the place to book a trip along the Murray on a paddle steamer. Bookings are required.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Benarca Forest Rd, Moama, New South Wales / ACT
GPS: -36.056353°, 144.624859°
Phone: 0130 007 275
Email: [email protected]
Web: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/camping-and-accommodation/campgrounds/benarca-campground
Distance From Echuca: 21km
Pet Friendly:

8. Wills Bend Sandbar No2

Basic bush camping along the Murray River. There are designated camping areas at Wills Bend near Echuca with toilets provided.

• Campsites must be located at least 20m from any water source.
• Take all rubbish with you and leave no trace.
• Avoid resting, picnics or camping under or close to trees. They may drop heavy branches at any time without warning.
• Toilets provided.

The Upper Murray parks and reserves are in the North-East fire ban district. Bushfire safety is a personal responsibility. Anyone entering parks and forests during the bushfire season needs to stay aware of forecast weather conditions. Check for the Fire Danger Rating and days of Total Fire Ban at www.cfa.vic.gov.au or call the Vic Emergency Hotline on 1800 226 226. On Code Red Fire Danger Rating days these parks will be closed for public safety. Do not expect an official warning. Check the latest conditions at www.parks.vic.gov.au or by calling 13 1963

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Off Odwyer Rd, Echuca, Victoria
GPS: -36.053354°, 144.627201°
Phone: 13 19 63
Web: https://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/river-murray-reserve/things-to-do/wills-bend
Distance From Echuca: 18km
Pet Friendly: Yes

9. Wills Bend

Basic bush camping along the Murray River. There are designated camping areas at Wills Bend near Echuca with toilets provided.

• Campsites must be located at least 20m from any water source.
• Take all rubbish with you and leave no trace.
• Avoid resting, picnics or camping under or close to trees. They may drop heavy branches at any time without warning.
• Toilets provided.

The Upper Murray parks and reserves are in the North-East fire ban district. Bushfire safety is a personal responsibility. Anyone entering parks and forests during the bushfire season needs to stay aware of forecast weather conditions. Check for the Fire Danger Rating and days of Total Fire Ban at www.cfa.vic.gov.au or call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226. On Code Red Fire Danger Rating days these parks will be closed for public safety. Do not expect an official warning. Check the latest conditions at www.parks.vic.gov.au or by calling 13 1963

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: O’Dwyer Rd, Victoria
GPS: -36.049149°, 144.635722°
Phone: 13 19 63
Web: https://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/river-murray-reserve/things-to-do/wills-bend
Distance From Echuca: 17km
Pet Friendly: Yes

10. Casey Bend

Dispersed bush camping near Echuca beside the Murray River in the Murray River Reserve.

• There are no facilities, campers must be self-sufficient.
• Take all rubbish with you and leave no trace.
• This site is accessible to tents and camper trailers.
• Pets are not permitted.
• Avoid resting, picnics or camping under or close to trees. They may drop heavy branches at any time without warning.
• Toilets provided.
• Non-potable water available.
• Telstra reception.

The Upper Murray parks and reserves are in the North-East fire ban district. Bushfire safety is a personal responsibility. Anyone entering parks and forests during the bushfire season needs to stay aware of forecast weather conditions. Check for the Fire Danger Rating and days of Total Fire Ban at www.cfa.vic.gov.au or call the Vic Emergency Hotline on 1800 226 226. On Code Red Fire Danger Rating days these parks will be closed for public safety. Do not expect an official warning. Check the latest conditions at www.parks.vic.gov.au or by calling 13 1963

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: 178 Casey Rd, Wharparilla, Victoria
GPS: -36.072745°, 144.659824°
Phone: 13 19 63
Web: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/sites/casey-bend-site-1-
Distance From Echuca: 13km
Pet Friendly: No

11. Fats Cliff

This is a free campground. It is dog friendly. It is accessible to motorbikes, RVs, camper trailers and caravans. Camping in tents is allowed.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Simmie Road, Victoria
GPS: -36.116030°, 144.812595°
Distance From Echuca: 9km
Pet Friendly: Yes

12. Camp Spot On The Murray

Bush camping on the banks of the Murray River in the Echuca Regional Park, just outside Echuca.

• There are no facilities.
• Campers must be self-sufficient.
• Take all rubbish with you and leave no trace.
• Access via Simmie Road from Echuca.
• Dogs allowed
• Telstra reception.
• Other mobile reception.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Simmie Road, Shire of Campaspe, Victoria
GPS: -36.114484°, 144.813702°
Web: https://www.visitmelbourne.com/Regions/The-Murray/Things-to-do/Outdoor-activities/Camping
Distance From Echuca: 9km
Pet Friendly: Yes

13. Rivers Edge Bush Camp

Numerous bushes camping spots on the banks of the Murray River in the Echuca Regional Park just outside Echuca. There are no facilities just bush and sandy beaches. You need to be self sufficient. Take all rubbish with you and leave no trace. Access via Simmie Road from Echuca.

• Dogs allowed.
• Telstra reception.
• Other mobile reception.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Off Simmie Rd, Echuca Village, Victoria
GPS: -36.113301°, 144.808011°
Phone: 13 19 63
Web: https://www.visitmelbourne.com/Regions/The-Murray/Things-to-do/Outdoor-activities/Camping
Distance From Echuca: 9km
Pet Friendly: Yes

Emu Bend Free Camping On The Murray River

14. Betts Beach

Numerous bushes camping spots on the banks of the Murray River in the Echuca Regional Park just outside Echuca. There are no facilities just bush and sandy beaches. You need to be self sufficient. Take all rubbish with you and leave no trace.

• Access via Simmie Road from Echuca.
• Dogs allowed.
• Telstra reception.
• Other mobile reception.

Cost: Free
Type: State Forest Camping
Location: Access Via Simmie Road, Echuca Village, Victoria
GPS: -36.107470°, 144.806359°
Phone: 13 19 63
Web: https://www.visitmelbourne.com/Regions/The-Murray/Things-to-do/Outdoor-activities/Camping
Distance From Echuca: 10km
Pet Friendly: Yes

15. Murray Bend

Bush camping on the banks of the Murray River in the Echuca Regional Park, just outside Echuca. There are no facilities. Take all rubbish with you and leave no trace. Toilets are available further north at Christie’s Beach.

• Access via Simmie Road from Echuca.
• Dogs allowed.
• Telstra reception.
• Other mobile reception.
• Good TV reception.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Enter Simmies Rd, Echuca Village, Victoria
GPS: -36.111079°, 144.814842°
Phone: 13 19 63
Web: https://www.visitmelbourne.com/Regions/The-Murray/Things-to-do/Outdoor-activities/Camping
Distance From Echuca: 10km
Pet Friendly: Yes

16. George’s Beach

Free camping in Echuca on the banks of the Murray River in the Echuca Regional Park just outside Echuca. There are no facilities. Take all rubbish with you and leave no trace. Toilets are available further north at Christie’s Beach.

• Access via Simmie Road from Echuca.
• Dogs allowed.
• Telstra reception.
• Other mobile reception.
• Good TV reception.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Unnamed Road, Echuca Village, Victoria
GPS: -36.109091°, 144.816097°
Phone: 13 19 63
Web: https://www.visitmelbourne.com/Regions/The-Murray/Things-to-do/Outdoor-activities/Camping
Distance From Echuca: 11km
Pet Friendly: Yes

17. Christie’s Beach

Large open camp ground multiple spots. Good access to the river. BYO firewood the area has been picked clean.

• Dogs allowed.
• Telstra reception.
• Other mobile reception.
• Toilets available.

Cost: Free
Type: Sate Forest Bush Camping
Location: Unnamed Rd, Echuca, Victoria
GPS: -36.103711°, 144.811103°
Distance From Echuca: 12km
Pet Friendly: Yes

18. Rivers Edge Camping Spot

This is a free campground. It is dog friendly. It is accessible to motorbikes and camper trailers. Camping in tents is allowed.

• Dogs allowed.
• Telstra reception.
• Other mobile reception.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
GPS: -36.106958°, 144.817851°
Distance From Echuca: 12km
Pet Friendly: Yes

19. Drifters Bend

Great hidden spot. Can access the river on foot. Great open spot for tents or swags.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: End Road, Moama, New South Wales / ACT
GPS: -36.106806°, 144.821284°
Distance From Echuca: 11km
Pet Friendly: Yes

20. Looker Track

This free campground offers swimming. It is accessible to off road caravans and four wheel drives. Camping in tents is allowed.

• It is dog friendly.
• Telstra reception.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: East Of Echuca, Victoria
GPS: -36.104882°, 144.823092°
Distance From Echuca: 11km
Pet Friendly: Yes

Murray Bend Free Camping In Echuca On The Murray River

21. Secluded Hideaway

Free bush camping near the Murray River, offering plenty of space and privacy.

• There are no facilities.
• Campers must be self-sufficient.
• Take all rubbish with you and leave no trace.
• Accessible to tents, camper trailers, motorhomes and caravans. May become inaccessible during wet weather.
• It is dog friendly.
• Telstra reception.
• Other mobile reception.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Unnamed Rd, Echuca Village, Victoria
GPS: -36.108200°, 144.827854°
Distance From Echuca: 10km
Pet Friendly: Yes

22. Cochranes Bend Goulburn River

This free campground offers swimming. It is accessible to motorbikes, RVs, camper trailers and caravans.

• Camping in tents is allowed.
• It is dog friendly.
• Telstra reception.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Off Bangerang Rd, Echuca, Victoria
GPS: -36.106883°, 144.847060°
Distance From Echuca: 12km
Pet Friendly: Yes

23. The Beach

This free campground offers swimming. It is accessible to motorbikes, RVs, camper trailers and caravans.

• Camping in tents is allowed.
• It is dog friendly.
• Telstra reception.
• Good TV reception.
• Non potable water available (not drinkable).

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: Stewarts Bridge Rd,, Victoria
GPS: -36.094930°, 144.841916°
Distance From Echuca: 14km
Pet Friendly: Yes

24. 1732 Murray River

This free campground offers swimming. It is accessible to motorbikes, RVs, camper trailers and caravans.

• Camping in tents is allowed.
• It is dog friendly.
• Telstra reception.
• Good TV reception.
• Non potable water available (not drinkable).

Cost: Free
Type: State Forest Bush Camping
Location: 212 Stewarts Bridge Rd, Lower Moira, Victoria
GPS: -36.093215°, 144.843503°
Distance From Echuca: 14km
Pet Friendly: Yes

25. 1734 Murray River

This free campground offers swimming. It is accessible to camper trailers. You wouldn’t be able to get a caravan in here not even a small one.

• Camping in tents is allowed.
• It is dog friendly.
• Non potable water available (not drinkable).
• You must be fully self-contained.

Cost: Free
Type: Bush Camping
Location: 212 Stewarts Bridge Rd, Lower Moira, Victoria
GPS: -36.085381°, 144.843313°
Distance From Echuca: 15km
Pet Friendly: Yes

Rivers Edge Bush Camp Free Camping In Echuca

Dump Points In Echuca

There are two publicly accessible dump points in Echuca.

1. BP Echuca Dump Point

Dump point is in the parking lot of the BP service station. Free for public. Drinking water is also available form here.

Location: 73/85 Murray Vally Hwy, Echuca, Victoria
GPS: -36.132222°, 144.727201°

2. Echuca Rotary Community Park Dump Point

Dump point is located in This dump point is provided by the Rotary Club of Echuca Moama. Use of dump point is by a $5 donation- the donation box is out the front of the first building. Please drive at the speed recommended and be safe for other campers as well as making our road surface last. Rotary has listened to reviews and spent a lot of money improving surfaces for wet weather.

Location: Rose St, Echuca, Victoria
GPS: -36.145897°, 144.733412°

Essential Tips For Free Camping

Pack Wisely

When free camping it’s important to be self sufficient. Ensure you pack all necessary supplies, including:

• Food and Water: Bring enough for the duration of your stay.
• Camping Gear: Tent, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and lighting.
• First Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries and emergencies.
• Waste Management: Bring bags to collect and dispose of your rubbish responsibly.

Respect Nature

Leave No Trace: Clean up after yourself and leave the campsite as you found it.
Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and do not feed them.
Campfires: Only light fires in designated areas and ensure they are fully extinguished before leaving.

Top 5 Best Things To Do In Echuca

The Port of Echuca
The Port of Echuca is an historic site that offers a look back into the town’s past as a major river port. Take a stroll along the port’s boardwalk, explore the museum, and enjoy a ride on a historic paddle steamer.

Murray River Paddlesteamers
No visit to Echuca is complete without a cruise on a paddle steamer. These former workhorses of the river offer a unique way to explore the Murray River and take in the stunning scenery. Various operators offer tours ranging from short excursions to full-day trips.

Echuca Moama Bridge
The Echuca Moama Bridge connects the twin towns of Echuca and Moama. The bridge is an impressive structure and offers great views of the river.

Echuca Historical Society Museum
The Echuca Historical Society Museum is in the old police station. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits detailing the region’s history. It’s well worth a visit if you’re into history.

Local Wildlife And Flora
Echuca is home to a diverse range of wildlife and plant species. You’ll likely be visited by kangaroos and a variety of bird species. The region’s flora includes river red gums and various native shrubs. Always respect wildlife and be mindful of their habitats.

Best Time To Visit Echuca

Echuca can be visited year round, but the best time to camp is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be quite hot, while winter may bring cooler temperatures and occasional rain.

Stay Safe

• Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast and be prepared for changes.
• Emergency Plan: Know the location of the nearest town or ranger station in case of an emergency.
• Communication: Ensure you have a charged mobile phone and possibly a portable charger.

Will No2 Sandbar Murray River Camping

How To Get To Echuca From Melbourne

To get to Echuca by car from Melbourne, follow these step-by-step directions:

1. Step 1: Start from Melbourne CBD
   Enter the Citylink Tollway (M2): From Melbourne CBD, head northwest on Elizabeth St toward Collins St. Turn left onto Lonsdale St, then take the ramp to Citylink/State Route 43.
2. Step 2: Take the Tullamarine Freeway (M2)
   Continue on the Tullamarine Freeway (M2): Merge onto the Tullamarine Freeway (M2). Stay on this route following signs for Airport/State Route 43.
3. Step 3: Exit to Calder Freeway (M79)
   Exit onto Calder Freeway (M79): After about 14 kilometres, use the left 2 lanes to take the Calder Freeway/M79 exit toward Bendigo. Continue on the Calder Freeway for approximately 90 kilometres.
4. Step 4: Exit to Northern Highway (B75)
   Exit onto Northern Highway (B75): Take the exit toward Northern Highway/B75/Echuca from the Calder Freeway. Merge onto Northern Highway (B75).
5. Step 5: Follow the Northern Highway to Echuca
   Drive through Heathcote: Continue on the Northern Highway passing through Heathcote. Keep following signs for Echuca.
   Pass through Rochester: Continue driving through the town of Rochester, staying on the Northern Highway.
6. Step 6: Arrive in Echuca
   Enter Echuca: As you approach Echuca, you will continue on the Northern Highway. Follow the road signs to reach the town centre.

Travel Tips

Distance and Duration: The total driving distance from Melbourne to Echuca is approximately 220 kilometres and typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Fuel Stops: There are several service stations along the way, especially in larger towns like Heathcote and Rochester.
• Rest Areas: Consider stopping in Heathcote or Rochester for a break, as both towns offer facilities for food and rest.
• Navigation Tools: Use a GPS device or a map application on your smartphone to ensure you stay on the correct route. Most navigation apps will offer real-time traffic updates and alternative routes if needed.

Things to Check Before Departure:

• Vehicle Condition: Ensure your car is in good working condition with sufficient fuel and check tire pressure and oil levels.
• Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast for both Melbourne and Echuca as well as any areas in between to avoid any unexpected weather-related issues.
• Travel Restrictions: Verify if there are any roadworks, detours or travel restrictions along the route that could affect your journey.

Conclusion

Free camping in Echuca gives you an awesome chance to connect with nature and explore the rich history of this charming town. With several beautiful camping spots to choose from and a variety of attractions to visit, Echuca is a perfect destination for campers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Remember to respect the environment, pack wisely, and enjoy all that Echuca has to offer.

FAQs Frequently Asked Questions About Free Camping In Echuca