Andrews Hill is a serene bush camping area nestled within the Gunbower National Park, located on the Victorian banks of the Murray River. Situated approximately 12 kilometres west of the Gunbower township, this site offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the busier camping areas and immerse themselves in the ancient River Red Gum forest. It is located just upstream from the Masters Landing area, sharing the same stunning river vistas and dense forest atmosphere.
The camping area features dispersed, unallocated sites that are tucked away amongst the trees. The ground is a mix of compacted earth, leaf litter, and grassy clearings, suitable for swags, tents, and off-road caravans. The river here flows steadily, creating deep pools and snaggy sections that are ideal for fishing. The high banks offer excellent vantage points for watching the water, while small tracks often lead down to the river's edge for launching a kayak or canoe. The canopy of Red Gums provides ample shade, making it a comfortable spot even during the warmer months.
As a free bush camping site within the National Park, there are no facilities at Andrews Hill. There are no toilets, showers, or tap water available. Visitors must be completely self-sufficient, bringing their own portable toilet, water, and power supplies. This "leave no trace" philosophy is crucial to maintaining the pristine condition of this Ramsar-listed wetland environment. Access is via River Road and unsealed forest tracks which can be rough and rutted; a 4WD is highly recommended, especially after rain when the clay tracks become slippery and boggy.
Despite its secluded feel, Andrews Hill is only a 20-minute drive from the town of Gunbower. This means you can easily pop into town for a meal at the local hotel, visit the bakery, or restock supplies before returning to your quiet riverside camp. Whether you are an angler chasing Murray Cod, a birdwatcher looking for unique wetland species, or a camper seeking solitude under the stars, Andrews Hill offers an authentic and relaxing Gunbower Forest experience.
Andrews Hill (Gunbower National Park) VIC Location Map
Andrews Hill (Gunbower National Park)
- Address: River Rd (Access via forest tracks), Gunbower VIC 3566, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -35.91017, 144.42135
Park Location (Satellite View)
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River within Gunbower National Park, approximately 12km west of Gunbower township. It is located near Masters Landing.
- Site Suitable For: 4WD campers, off-road caravans, camper trailers, and tents. Access for large motorhomes may be restricted by narrow tracks and overhanging branches.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks. 4WD Recommended. Tracks are clay-based and become impassable mud after rain. 2WD access is risky in wet conditions.
- Site Surface: Natural bush floor, dirt, leaf litter, and grass. Uneven ground is common.
Available Facilities
- Bush Camping (No Amenities)
- No Toilets (You must bring a portable toilet). Nearest public toilets are in Gunbower.
- No Showers.
- No Drinking Water.
- No Rubbish Bins (Carry in, Carry out).
- River Access (High banks, natural spots for fishing/kayaking).
- Campfires Permitted (In constructed fireplaces only, subject to fire bans).
Essentials to Bring
- Portable Toilet: Mandatory requirement as there are no facilities.
- Water: Bring all drinking and washing water.
- Rubbish Bags: You must take all waste with you.
- Firewood: Bring clean firewood (collection in the National Park is prohibited).
- Insect Repellent: Essential near the water.
- Shovel: For campfire safety.
- Recovery Gear: Essential if rain is forecast or tracks are wet.
Park Policies & Features
- Pet Friendly: NO. This site is located within the Gunbower National Park. Dogs and other pets are strictly prohibited to protect native wildlife. Rangers patrol the area.
- Fishing: Excellent. The river here is full of snags and deep holes, ideal for Murray Cod and Golden Perch. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
- Short Walks: Explore the forest tracks on foot to see the diverse birdlife and wetlands.
- Swimming: Possible in the river. Be aware of snags, strong currents, and cold water.
Local Amenities (Gunbower & Cohuna)
Local Pubs
- Gunbower Hotel: (Murray Valley Hwy, Gunbower) Approx. 12km East.
- Torrumbarry Hotel: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 20km West.
- Cohuna Hotel: (King George St, Cohuna) Approx. 25km North-West.
Places to Eat
- Gunbower Hotel Bistro: (Gunbower) Approx. 12km East - Famous for steaks.
- McGillivray's @ Gunbower: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 12km East.
- Gunbower Workshop Cafe: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 12km East.
Local Attractions
- Gunbower Island Forest Drive: (On-site) - Scenic drive through the wetlands.
- Torrumbarry Weir: (Weir Rd) Approx. 15km West - Interpretive centre and weir walk.
- Kow Swamp: (Leitchville) Approx. 15km South - Birdwatching and fishing.
- Cohuna Beach: (Cohuna) Approx. 25km North-West.
- Murray River: (On-site) - Boating, fishing, and canoeing.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Gunbower Caravan Park: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 12km East.
- Torrumbarry Weir Holiday Park: (Weir Rd) Approx. 15km West.
- Cohuna Waterfront Holiday Park: (Cohuna) Approx. 25km North-West.
Nearest Free Camps
- Masters Landing: (Adjacent) Approx. 2km West.
- Gona Bend: (Adjacent) Approx. 3km East.
- Spences Bridge: (Cohuna) Approx. 20km North-West.
Nearest Dump Points
- Gunbower Recreation Reserve: (Gunbower Island Rd) Approx. 12km East.
- Cohuna Public Dump Point: (Cohuna) Approx. 25km North-West.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- Gunbower Fuel Stop (Ampol): (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 12km East.
- Torrumbarry Roadhouse: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 20km West.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Gunbower: Public taps at Recreation Reserve. Approx. 12km East.
- Cohuna: Public taps in town parks. Approx. 25km North-West.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Gunbower Lions Park: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 12km East.
- Masters Landing: (Nearby) Drop toilet may be available (check condition). Approx. 2km West.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Gunbower
- Summer (December - February): Hot and dry. Average highs 31°C - 34°C. The river shade is essential. Fire danger is high.
- Autumn (March - May): Mild and sunny. Warm days (22°C - 28°C) and cooler nights. Perfect for camping.
- Winter (June - August): Cool to cold. Average highs 13°C - 15°C. Nights are cold (3°C - 5°C) with frost likely. Tracks can be muddy.
- Spring (September - November): Warming up. Highs 19°C - 26°C. The forest may be flooded (natural cycle), restricting access.
Address
River Rd (Access via forest tracks), Gunbower, 3566, Australia
