Boomangong Beach is a spectacular, lesser-known bush camping spot located on the Victorian banks of the Murray River in Koonoomoo. Positioned directly opposite the pristine Boomanoomana State Forest in New South Wales, this site offers campers a serene and secluded escape just downstream from the main Tocumwal bridge. It is part of the beautiful stretch of river beaches that includes the nearby Pebble Beach and Bouchiers Beach, characterised by its towering River Red Gums, sandy shoreline, and abundant native wildlife.
The camping area features a mix of open grassy glades and sheltered spots tucked beneath the canopy of the forest. The highlight is the sandy beach area that gently slopes into the Murray, making it an ideal location for launching a kayak, swimming during the warmer months, or fishing from the bank. Because it is slightly tucked away from the main access tracks, Boomangong Beach often remains quieter than its neighbours, offering a true sense of isolation while still being easily accessible for most vehicles.
As a free dispersed camping area within the River Murray Reserve, there are no facilities on-site. This means no toilets, showers, or tap water. Visitors must be fully self-sufficient, bringing their own portable toilet, water, and power supplies. This “leave no trace” approach helps preserve the natural beauty of the riverbank. Access is via unsealed forest tracks off the Goulburn Valley Highway (near the Big Strawberry), which are generally suitable for 2WD in dry weather but can become slippery and boggy after rain.
Despite its bush setting, Boomangong Beach is only a short 10-minute drive from the historic town of Tocumwal. This proximity allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds: the peace of a riverside campfire at night and the convenience of cafes, pubs, and shops during the day. Whether you are an avid birdwatcher, a keen angler chasing Murray Cod, or simply looking for a quiet spot to relax, Boomangong Beach is a delightful stopover in the Sun Country region.
Boomangong Beach – VIC Location Map
Boomangong Beach (Koonoomoo / River Murray Reserve)
- Address: Unnamed Road (Access via Goulburn Valley Hwy/Forest Tracks), Koonoomoo VIC 3644, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -35.83361, 145.5675
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River, approximately 6km west of Tocumwal and 4km east of the Big Strawberry. It sits between Pebble Beach and Bouchiers Beach.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans (including off-road), camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks. 2WD accessible in dry weather only. The clay tracks become extremely slippery and boggy when wet; 4WD is recommended if rain is forecast.
- Site Surface: Natural bush floor, dirt, leaf litter, and sandy patches near the river.
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 (Sandy beach/bank).
- 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 (collecting in the park is often restricted/scarce).
- 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 this section of the River Murray Reserve but must be kept under control to protect wildlife.
- Fishing: Excellent. The river here features good structure for Murray Cod and Golden Perch. Bank fishing is popular. Victorian Fishing Licence required.
- Short Walks: Forest tracks connect Boomangong Beach to Pebble Beach and Bouchiers Beach, offering lovely river walks.
- Swimming: The sandy beach provides good access for swimming. Be aware of currents, snags, and submerged logs.
Local Amenities (Tocumwal & Koonoomoo)
Local Pubs
- Terminus Hotel: (Dean St, Tocumwal) Approx. 6km East.
- Farmers Arms Hotel: (Hennessy St, Tocumwal) Approx. 6km East.
- Tattersalls Hotel: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 6km East.
Places to Eat
- The Big Strawberry Cafe: (Goulburn Valley Hwy) Approx. 4km West – Pancakes and lunch.
- The Old Bank Lunch & Dinner: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 6km East.
- Tocumwal Ice Creamery: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 6km East.
- Tocumwal Bakery: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 6km East.
Local Attractions
- The Big Strawberry: (Koonoomoo) Approx. 4km West – Iconic attraction.
- The Big Murray Cod: (Tocumwal Foreshore) Approx. 6km East.
- Tocumwal Aviation Museum: (Tocumwal Airport) Approx. 9km East.
- Tocumwal Blowhole: (Tuppal Rd) Approx. 20km North.
- Cactus Country: (Strathmerton) Approx. 12km West.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Boomerang Way Tourist Park: (Murray St, Tocumwal) Approx. 5km East.
- Tocumwal Tourist Park: (Bruton St, Tocumwal) Approx. 6km East.
- Cobram Oasis Caravan Park: (Koonoomoo Rd) Approx. 10km West.
Nearest Free Camps
- Pebble Beach: (Adjacent) Approx. 500m East.
- Bouchiers Beach: (Adjacent) Approx. 1km West.
- Town Beach (Tocumwal): (NSW Side) Approx. 6km East.
Nearest Dump Points
- Tocumwal Town Beach (NSW Side): (Deniliquin St) Approx. 6km.
- Cobram Public Dump Point: (Federation Park) Approx. 15km.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- United Petroleum Tocumwal: (Newell Hwy) Approx. 6km.
- Shell Tocumwal: (Dean St) Approx. 6km.
- Mobil Cobram: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 15km.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Tocumwal Foreshore: (Deniliquin St) Taps available. Approx. 6km.
- Apex Park (Tocumwal): Approx. 6km.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Tocumwal Foreshore: (Deniliquin St) Approx. 6km.
- The Big Strawberry: (For patrons) 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.