Bouchiers Beach (often locally spelled Bourchiers Beach) is one of the most highly regarded free bush camping locations along the Victorian side of the Murray River. Located in Koonoomoo, roughly halfway between the major townships of Cobram and Tocumwal, this expansive reserve offers a classic Australian river experience. It is particularly famous within the camping community as a “Big Rigs Camp” due to its wide-open spaces, solid ground, and relatively easy access, making it a top choice for travellers with large caravans, fifth-wheelers, and motorhomes who often struggle to fit into tighter bush sites.
The camping area is set within a beautiful reserve dominated by towering River Red Gums and lush native grasses. Unlike some of the steeper banks found elsewhere along the Murray, Bouchiers Beach features gentle slopes down to the water and several sandy beach areas, creating perfect conditions for swimming, launching kayaks, or pulling up a tinny. The sites are dispersed and unallocated, allowing campers to choose between absolute riverfront positions or shaded spots further back in the forest for added wind protection and privacy.
As a free site managed by Parks Victoria, Bouchiers Beach has no facilities. There are no toilets, showers, or tap water on-site. This means visitors must be completely self-sufficient, bringing their own portable toilet, water, and power. This requirement helps maintain the serenity of the area and prevents overcrowding, attracting a crowd that respects the “leave no trace” philosophy.
Despite its feeling of seclusion, the campsite is incredibly well-located. You are just a few minutes’ drive from the famous Big Strawberry in Koonoomoo and only 10-15 minutes from the amenities of both Cobram and Tocumwal. Whether you are planning a week of fishing for Murray Cod, exploring the local farm gates, or simply relaxing by a campfire watching the river flow by, Bouchiers Beach offers a premium, cost-free holiday experience in the heart of Victoria’s food bowl.
Bouchiers Beach – VIC Location Map
Bouchiers Beach (Bourchiers Beach / Big Rigs Camp)
- Address: 352 Green Lane, Koonoomoo VIC 3644, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -35.83796, 145.57289
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River in Koonoomoo. It sits between Cobram (West) and Tocumwal (East).
- Site Suitable For: Big rigs, fifth-wheelers, large caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, and tents. The open layout makes it one of the best spots for large vehicles.
- Road Access: Unsealed access via Green Lane. The tracks are generally wide and hard-packed, suitable for 2WD and large rigs in dry weather. However, the clay surface becomes extremely slippery and boggy after rain.
- Site Surface: Natural bush floor, compacted dirt, and grass. There are large sandy beach areas along the water.
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 (Excellent sandy beaches and boat launching from the 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 (collection in the park is often restricted).
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be active 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 Regional Park but must be kept under control to protect wildlife and other campers.
- Fishing: Excellent. A popular spot for Murray Cod and Golden Perch. The gentle banks make shore fishing easy. Victorian Fishing Licence required.
- Short Walks: You can walk for kilometres along the river tracks, exploring neighbouring bends like Tanners Bend and Grassy Beach.
- Swimming: The sandy beaches provide excellent swimming access. Always be aware of river currents, submerged logs, and cold water temperatures.
Local Amenities (Koonoomoo, Tocumwal & Cobram)
Local Pubs
- Terminus Hotel: (Dean St, Tocumwal) Approx. 8km East.
- Farmers Arms Hotel: (Hennessy St, Tocumwal) Approx. 8km East.
- Cobram Hotel (The Top Pub): (Main St, Cobram) Approx. 10km West.
Places to Eat
- The Big Strawberry Cafe: (Goulburn Valley Hwy) Approx. 4km South – Pancakes, ice cream, and lunch.
- Koonoomoo General Store: (Goulburn Valley Hwy) Approx. 5km South – Takeaway and supplies.
- Old Bank Lunch & Dinner: (Tocumwal) Approx. 8km East.
- Big Mumma’s Kitchen: (Cobram) Approx. 10km West.
Local Attractions
- The Big Strawberry: (Koonoomoo) Approx. 4km – Iconic attraction with picking and produce.
- Tocumwal Foreshore & Big Murray Cod: (Tocumwal) Approx. 8km East.
- Cactus Country: (Strathmerton) Approx. 15km West.
- Thompson’s Beach: (Cobram) Approx. 10km West.
- Tocumwal Aviation Museum: (Tocumwal) Approx. 10km East.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Cobram Oasis Caravan Park: (Koonoomoo Rd) Approx. 6km West.
- Boomerang Way Tourist Park: (Tocumwal) Approx. 7km East.
- Tocumwal Tourist Park: (Tocumwal) Approx. 7.5km East.
Nearest Free Camps
- Tanners Bend: (Adjacent) Approx. 1km West.
- Grassy Beach: (Adjacent) Approx. 1km East.
- Apex Beach: (Tocumwal) Approx. 5km East.
Nearest Dump Points
- Tocumwal Town Beach (NSW Side): (Deniliquin St) Approx. 8km.
- Federation Park Cobram: (Punt Rd) Approx. 10km.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- United Petroleum Tocumwal: (Newell Hwy) Approx. 8km.
- Mobil Cobram: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 10km.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Tocumwal Foreshore: (Deniliquin St) Taps available. Approx. 8km.
- Federation Park (Cobram): Approx. 10km.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Tocumwal Foreshore: (Deniliquin St) Approx. 8km.
- The Big Strawberry: (For patrons) Approx. 4km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Koonoomoo / Tocumwal
- Summer (December – February): Hot and dry. Average highs 31°C – 34°C. The river is the place to be.
- 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 lush and green.