Apex Beach (often linked with Pump Bend) is a highly popular free camping area located on the Victorian banks of the Murray River, just a few kilometres west of the historic town of Tocumwal. Situated within the Tocumwal Regional Park, this site is renowned for its massive, sweeping sandy beach which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and launching boats. Its close proximity to the bridge makes it one of the most accessible bush camps for travellers passing through the region who want a quick and scenic stopover.
The camping area features a large open space dispersed amongst the River Red Gums. Unlike some tighter bush tracks, the access here is generally good, making it a favourite for those with larger caravans and motorhomes. You can choose to set up right on the high bank overlooking the river or tuck yourself further back into the trees for shade and wind protection. The river bend creates a large, calm pool of water that is a magnet for water skiers and kayakers during the summer months.
As a free site managed by Parks Victoria, Apex Beach has no facilities. There are no toilets, showers, or tap water on-site. Visitors must be completely self-sufficient, bringing their own portable toilet, water, and power. This ensures the site remains clean and enjoyable for everyone. Access is via the Goulburn Valley Highway, turning onto the signed forest tracks just south of the bridge. While generally 2WD friendly, the tracks can become slippery after rain.
The real beauty of Apex Beach is its convenience. You are less than a 5-minute drive (or a pleasant walk/cycle) from the Tocumwal town centre. This means you can enjoy a day on the river and then head into town for a meal at one of the excellent pubs, visit the historic aerodrome, or grab supplies from the supermarket. It offers the perfect balance of a relaxing bush retreat with all the amenities of a major town right on your doorstep.
Apex Beach (Tocumwal Regional Park) VIC Location Map
Apex Beach (Tocumwal Regional Park)
- Address: Unnamed Road (Access via Goulburn Valley Hwy), Koonoomoo/Tocumwal VIC 3644, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -35.81317, 145.54677
Park Location (Satellite View)
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River, approximately 3-4km west (downstream) of the Tocumwal bridge. Access is via a track off the Goulburn Valley Highway.
- Site Suitable For: Big rigs, caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, and tents. The area is relatively open and spacious.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks. 2WD accessible in dry weather. Tracks are clay-based and can become slippery/boggy when wet.
- Site Surface: Natural bush floor, dirt, leaf litter, and large sandy beach areas.
Available Facilities
- Bush Camping (No Amenities)
- No Toilets (You must bring a portable toilet).
- No Showers.
- No Drinking Water.
- No Rubbish Bins (Carry in, Carry out).
- River Access (Large sandy beach for swimming/boats).
- Campfires Permitted (In constructed fireplaces only, subject to fire bans).
Essentials to Bring
- Portable Toilet: Mandatory requirement.
- Water: Bring all drinking and washing water.
- Rubbish Bags: You must take all waste with you.
- Firewood: Bring clean firewood (collection in the park is often restricted).
- Insect Repellent: Essential near the water.
- Shovel: For campfire safety.
- Recovery Gear: Recommended if rain is forecast.
Park Policies & Features
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted in the Tocumwal Regional Park but must be kept under control.
- Fishing: Excellent. A popular spot for bank fishing and launching tinnal. Murray Cod and Golden Perch are common. Victorian Fishing Licence required.
- Short Walks: Walking tracks wind through the Red Gum forest, connecting to other nearby beaches.
- Swimming: The large sandy beach provides excellent access for swimming. Be aware of currents, snags, and submerged logs.
Local Amenities (Tocumwal)
Local Pubs
- Terminus Hotel: (Dean St, Tocumwal) Approx. 4km East.
- Farmers Arms Hotel: (Hennessy St, Tocumwal) Approx. 4km East.
- Tattersalls Hotel: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 4km East.
Places to Eat
- The Old Bank Lunch & Dinner: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 4km.
- Tocumwal Ice Creamery: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 4km.
- Tocumwal Bakery: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 4km.
- The Palms Pub: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 4km.
Local Attractions
- The Big Murray Cod: (Tocumwal Foreshore) Approx. 4km.
- Tocumwal Aviation Museum: (Tocumwal Airport) Approx. 7km.
- Tocumwal Foreshore Park: (Deniliquin St) Approx. 4km - Splash park and markets.
- The Big Strawberry: (Koonoomoo) Approx. 5km South.
- Cactus Country: (Strathmerton) Approx. 15km West.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Boomerang Way Tourist Park: (Murray St, Tocumwal) Approx. 5km.
- Tocumwal Tourist Park: (Bruton St, Tocumwal) Approx. 4.5km.
- Cobram Oasis Caravan Park: (Koonoomoo Rd) Approx. 10km South.
Nearest Free Camps
- Wilsons Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 3km East.
- Mulberry Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 2km East.
- Town Beach (Tocumwal): (NSW Side) Approx. 4km East.
Nearest Dump Points
- Tocumwal Town Beach (NSW Side): (Deniliquin St) Approx. 4km.
- Cobram Public Dump Point: (Federation Park) Approx. 16km.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- United Petroleum Tocumwal: (Newell Hwy) Approx. 5km.
- Shell Tocumwal: (Dean St) Approx. 4km.
- Mobil Cobram: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 16km.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Tocumwal Foreshore: (Deniliquin St) Taps available. Approx. 4km.
- Apex Park (Tocumwal): Approx. 4km.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Tocumwal Foreshore: (Deniliquin St) Approx. 4km.
- Apex Park (Tocumwal): Approx. 4km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Tocumwal
- Summer (December - February): Hot and dry. Average highs 31°C - 34°C. The river is essential for cooling off.
- 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. Campfires essential.
- Spring (September - November): Pleasant warming trend. Highs 20°C - 27°C. The area is vibrant and green.
Address
Unnamed Road (Access via Goulburn Valley Hwy), Koonoomoo/Tocumwal, 3644, Australia
