Granthams Bend Campground | Free Camping on the Murray River, VIC

Granthams Bend is one of the most beloved free camping spots along the mighty Murray River, offering a classic Australian bush camping experience right on the water’s edge. Located just a few minutes from the small town of Wahgunyah, this large reserve occupies a picturesque bend in the river, providing dozens of campsites with direct river frontage. Its easy accessibility for all vehicle types, including large caravans and motorhomes, combined with its stunning location, makes it a perennial favourite for travellers. The campsite is a sprawling, informal area shaded by magnificent River Red Gums, allowing you to find a private spot to set up camp and relax.

The main drawcard is undoubtedly the Murray River itself. It’s an idyllic setting for a wide range of water-based activities. Many campers launch their boats, kayaks, or paddleboards directly from their sites for a day on the water. Fishing is extremely popular, with the hope of catching a prized Murray Cod being a major attraction for many visitors. The gentle river is also perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot day. Beyond the campsite, Granthams Bend serves as the perfect base for exploring the world-renowned Rutherglen wine region, which is just a short drive away. You can spend your days touring cellar doors and enjoying gourmet local produce before returning to your peaceful riverside camp in the evening. The nearby twin towns of Wahgunyah (Victoria) and Corowa (NSW) provide all the necessary supplies, pubs, and cafes. As a highly popular and valued free camp, it’s essential that all campers are self-sufficient and practice leave-no-trace principles to maintain its beauty.

Granthams Bend Campground

• Address: Granthams Bend Rd, Wahgunyah VIC 3687, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -35.977644, 146.415086
• Website: Not officially available (Managed by Parks Victoria/Local Council)

Campsite Information

• Location: On the Murray River, just outside Wahgunyah, Victoria.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs.
• Road Access: Good 2WD access via a dirt road. Can become slippery and boggy after rain.
• Site Surface: Dirt and grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit, but up to 14 days is generally accepted.
• Facilities: Non-flush toilets.
• Potable Water: No, bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage with Telstra and Optus.
• TV Reception: Good with a standard antenna.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flush (pit/long-drop) toilets available.
• Rubbish Bins: No, this is a carry-in, carry-out site. Please take all your rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits or your own fire pit, subject to seasonal fire restrictions.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Large open area with dozens of undefined sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted but must be kept on a leash.
• Fishing: Yes, excellent fishing for Murray Cod, Golden Perch and carp (Victorian fishing licence required).
• Short Walks: Yes, informal tracks along the riverbank.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • Wahgunyah Hotel: Approx. 4 km
  • Corowa Hotel (NSW): Approx. 6 km
  • Poachers Paradise Hotel (Rutherglen): Approx. 12 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Corowa has numerous cafes, bakeries, and restaurants: Approx. 6 km
  • Rutherglen has acclaimed restaurants and cafes: Approx. 12 km
  • Wahgunyah takeaway and cafe: Approx. 4 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Rutherglen Wine Region Cellar Doors: Starting from approx. 10 km
  • Corowa Whisky and Chocolate Factory: Approx. 7 km
  • Lake Moodemere: Approx. 8 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Rivergum Holiday Park (Corowa): Approx. 5 km
  • Bindaree Motel & Caravan Park (Corowa): Approx. 6 km
  • Wahgunyah Caravan Park: Approx. 4 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Stantons Bend: Approx. 10 km
  • Shaws Flat: Approx. 15 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Corowa Showgrounds: Public dump point. Approx. 7 km
  • Rutherglen Showgrounds: Public dump point. Approx. 12 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Wahgunyah: Approx. 4 km
  • Corowa: Multiple major service stations. Approx. 6 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Corowa Information Centre / Public Parks: Approx. 6 km
  • Wahgunyah Lions Park: Approx. 4 km
• Public Toilets (Township):
  • Wahgunyah: Approx. 4 km
  • Corowa: Approx. 6 km

Seasonal Weather Forecast

This region is known for its hot, dry summers, which are perfect for enjoying the river but also bring a high risk of bushfires. Autumn is arguably the best time to visit, with warm, sunny days and cool nights. Winters are typically cold and can be foggy, especially in the mornings, but are often clear and crisp during the day. Spring is mild and pleasant as the landscape greens up. Always check local fire restrictions, especially during summer.