Bourkes Beach No. 3 is a hidden gem situated within the Bourkes Bend precinct of the River Murray Reserve in Burramine, Victoria. Located approximately 18 kilometres west of Yarrawonga and 20 kilometres east of Cobram, this site offers a tranquil escape for campers seeking solitude away from the busier main beaches. The area is defined by its towering River Red Gums, native bushland, and a beautiful sandy beach that slopes gently into the Murray River, making it an inviting spot for relaxation and water activities.
The camping area features dispersed, unallocated sites that are nestled amongst the trees and along the riverbank. Unlike some of the more open beaches, Bourkes Beach No. 3 provides a sense of intimacy and shelter, with plenty of shaded spots to set up a swag, tent, or camper trailer. The ground is a mix of natural earth, leaf litter, and sand, offering a rustic bush camping experience. It is a fantastic location for nature lovers, with the surrounding forest teeming with birdlife, including kookaburras, parrots, and waterbirds.
As a free bush camping site managed by Parks Victoria, there are no facilities at Bourkes Beach No. 3. 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 requirement helps maintain the pristine condition of the site and ensures a peaceful environment. Access is via unsealed forest tracks (Bourkes Bend Track) which can be rough and rutted. While often accessible by 2WD in dry weather, the clay soil becomes extremely slippery and boggy after rain, so a 4WD is highly recommended, especially during wetter months.
Despite its secluded feel, Bourkes Beach No. 3 is conveniently located near some of the region’s best attractions. The historic Byramine Homestead is just a few kilometres away, perfect for a brewery lunch or Devonshire tea. Whether you are casting a line for Murray Cod, paddling down the river, or simply enjoying the serenity of a campfire under the stars, Bourkes Beach No. 3 offers an authentic and restorative Murray River escape.
Bourkes Beach No.3 – VIC Location Map
Bourkes Beach No. 3 (Bourkes Bend / River Murray Reserve)
- Address: Bourkes Beach No. 3, Bourkes Bend Track, Burramine VIC 3730, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -35.97931, 145.82495
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River in Burramine, roughly halfway between Yarrawonga and Cobram. Access is via Bourkes Bend Track off the Murray Valley Highway.
- Site Suitable For: 4WD campers, off-road caravans, camper trailers, and tents. Access for large motorhomes may be difficult due to narrow tracks and overhanging branches.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest track. 4WD Recommended. The track can be rough, rutted, and becomes very slippery and boggy when wet. 2WD access is risky after rain.
- Site Surface: Natural bush floor, dirt, leaf litter, and sand near the riverbank.
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 for swimming/fishing).
- 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: 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. Specific listings for Bourkes Beach No. 3 often state that dogs are not allowed to protect local wildlife. Please check on-site signage for the most current regulations, as rules can vary between specific sites in the reserve.
- Fishing: Excellent. The area features deep holes and snags ideal for Murray Cod and Golden Perch. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
- Short Walks: You can explore the forest tracks on foot or walk along the riverbank to neighbouring camping spots like Bourkes Beach No. 1 and 2.
- Swimming: The sandy beach provides good access for swimming. Be aware of currents, snags, and cold water temperatures.
Local Amenities (Yarrawonga & Cobram)
Local Pubs
- Terminus Hotel: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 18km East.
- Burkes Hotel: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 18km East.
- Cobram Hotel: (Main St, Cobram) Approx. 22km West.
Places to Eat
- Byramine Homestead & Brewery: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 3km West – Historic homestead with cafe and cider.
- The Naked Tree Cafe: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 18km East.
- Rich Glen Provedore: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 18km East.
- The Beach Cafe: (Thompson’s Beach, Cobram) Approx. 22km West.
Local Attractions
- Byramine Homestead: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 3km West – National Trust classified homestead.
- Rich Glen Olive Estate: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 12km East – Farm gate shop and cafe.
- Lake Mulwala: (Yarrawonga) Approx. 18km – Boating, fishing, and cruises.
- The Big Strawberry: (Koonoomoo) Approx. 30km West.
- Cactus Country: (Strathmerton) Approx. 35km West.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Cobram Willows Caravan Park: (Cobram) Approx. 20km West.
- Yarrawonga Riverlands Tourist Park: (Brears Rd) Approx. 16km East.
- Yarrawonga Holiday Park: (Burley Rd) Approx. 19km East.
Nearest Free Camps
- Bourkes Beach No. 1 & 2: (Adjacent) Approx. 500m – 1km away.
- Nevins Beach: (Burramine) Approx. 3km East.
- Little Toms Beach: (Cobram) Approx. 15km West.
Nearest Dump Points
- Yarrawonga Showgrounds: (Dunlop St) Approx. 19km.
- Cobram Public Dump Point: (Federation Park) Approx. 22km.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- United Petroleum Yarrawonga: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 17km.
- Mobil Cobram: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 20km.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Yarrawonga Showgrounds: (Dunlop St) Taps usually available. Approx. 19km.
- Federation Park (Cobram): Approx. 22km.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Byramine Homestead: (For patrons) Approx. 3km.
- Yarrawonga Foreshore: Approx. 19km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Burramine
- Summer (December – February): Hot and dry. Average highs 30°C – 33°C, often higher. The river shade is vital.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild and pleasant. Warm days (21°C – 27°C) and cooler nights. Ideal for bush camping.
- Winter (June – August): Cool to cold. Average highs 13°C – 15°C. Nights are cold (3°C – 5°C) with frost likely. Campfires are essential.
- Spring (September – November): Warming up. Highs 18°C – 25°C. The forest is green and vibrant.