Brentnalls Beach is a hidden gem located within the Tocumwal Regional Park on the Victorian side of the Murray River. Situated just a few kilometres downstream (west) from the main Tocumwal bridge, this dispersed bush camping area offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the more popular town beaches. The site is characterised by its towering River Red Gums, sandy river access, and a sense of seclusion that makes it perfect for self-sufficient campers looking to reconnect with nature.
The camping area features informal, unallocated sites spread along the riverbank and back into the forest. Whether you have a swag, a family tent, or an off-road caravan, you can find a spot that offers both shade and privacy. The river here flows gently around a bend, creating deep holes for fishing and sandy spots for launching a canoe or cooling off on a hot day. The surrounding forest is alive with birdlife, providing a serene soundtrack to your stay.
As a free site managed by Parks Victoria, there are no facilities at Brentnalls Beach. 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” approach ensures the environment remains pristine for everyone to enjoy. Access is via unsealed forest tracks which are generally accessible by 2WD in dry weather but can become slippery and boggy after rain, so driving to conditions is essential.
Despite its secluded feel, Brentnalls Beach is only a short 5-10 minute drive from the historic township of Tocumwal. This means you are never far from a cold drink at a local pub, a round of golf at the championship course, or essential supplies. Whether you are an avid angler chasing Murray Cod or a family looking for a quiet weekend away by the water, Brentnalls Beach offers an authentic and relaxing Murray River camping experience.
Brentnalls Beach – VIC Location Map
Brentnalls Beach (Tocumwal Regional Park)
- Address: Unnamed Road (Access via Murray Valley Hwy/Forest Tracks), Tocumwal VIC 2714 (Vic side), Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -35.84878, 145.59204
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River, approximately 3-4km west (downstream) of the Tocumwal bridge.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans (off-road preferred), camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks. 2WD accessible in dry weather only. Tracks are clay-based and become extremely slippery and boggy when wet. 4WD is recommended if rain is forecast.
- Site Surface: Natural bush floor, dirt, leaf litter, and some 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 banks 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/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 the Tocumwal Regional Park but must be kept under control to protect wildlife.
- Fishing: Excellent. The river here has deep holes and snags suitable for Murray Cod and Golden Perch. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
- Short Walks: Walking tracks wind through the Red Gum forest, connecting to other beaches like Wilsons Beach.
- Swimming: Possible from the riverbank. Always be aware of river currents, submerged logs, and cold water.
Local Amenities (Tocumwal & Surrounds)
Local Pubs
- Farmers Arms Hotel (Kelly’s Bistro): (Hennessy St, Tocumwal) Approx. 5km.
- Terminus Hotel: (Dean St, Tocumwal) Approx. 5km.
- Tattersalls Hotel: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 5km.
Places to Eat
- The Old Bank Lunch & Dinner: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 5km – Historic venue.
- Tocumwal Ice Creamery: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 5km – Famous ice cream.
- The Palms Pub: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 5km.
- Tocumwal Bakery: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 5km.
Local Attractions
- The Big Murray Cod: (Tocumwal Foreshore) Approx. 5km – Iconic Australian “Big Thing”.
- Tocumwal Aviation Museum: (Tocumwal Airport) Approx. 8km – Fascinating WWII history.
- Tocumwal Blowhole & The Rocks: (Tuppal Rd) Approx. 18km North.
- Cactus Country: (Strathmerton) Approx. 15km West.
- Chrystie’s Museum: (Tocumwal) Approx. 7km – Vintage cars and collectibles.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Boomerang Way Tourist Park: (Murray St, Tocumwal) Approx. 6km.
- Tocumwal Tourist Park: (Bruton St, Tocumwal) Approx. 5.5km.
- Cobram Willows Caravan Park: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 18km East.
Nearest Free Camps
- Wilsons Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 2km East.
- Apex Beach: (Further Downstream) Approx. 3km West.
- Town Beach (Tocumwal): (NSW Side) Approx. 5km.
Nearest Dump Points
- Tocumwal Town Beach (NSW Side): (Deniliquin St) Approx. 5km.
- Barooga Recreation Reserve: (Barooga) Approx. 20km.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- Shell Tocumwal: (Dean St) Approx. 5km.
- BP Tocumwal: (Murray St) Approx. 6km.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Tocumwal Foreshore: (Deniliquin St) Taps available. Approx. 5km.
- Apex Park (Tocumwal): Approx. 5km.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Tocumwal Foreshore: (Deniliquin St) Approx. 5km.
- Apex Park (Tocumwal): Approx. 5km.
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 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 essential.
- Spring (September – November): Pleasant warming trend. Highs 20°C – 27°C. The area is vibrant and green.