Camo Crew Beach is a fantastic bush camping area located in Echuca Village, just a short drive east of the main Echuca township. Tucked away along the winding banks of the Murray River, this site is a local favourite that offers the best of both worlds: the peace and freedom of bush camping combined with the rare convenience of on-site toilet facilities. It is an ideal spot for families, groups, and self-sufficient travellers looking for a relaxed riverside getaway without sacrificing basic comforts.
The camping area features spacious, dispersed sites set amongst the river red gums. The ground is generally flat and compacted, making it suitable for caravans, camper trailers, and tents. The river access is excellent, with banks that allow for fishing, swimming, and launching small boats or kayaks directly from your campsite. The area is known for its relaxed atmosphere, where you can wake up to the sound of kookaburras and spend your days watching the paddle steamers cruise by on their journey upriver.
Unlike many other free bush camps in the region, Camo Crew Beach is equipped with a drop toilet, which is a significant drawcard for many campers. However, there is no potable water, showers, or power, so visitors should still come prepared to be largely self-sufficient. Access is via unsealed tracks which are typically navigable by 2WD vehicles in dry weather, though the surface can become slippery and difficult after heavy rain, so checking conditions is recommended.
Situated just 10-15 minutes from the heart of Echuca, you are never far from the action. You can easily pop into town to explore the historic Port of Echuca, enjoy a meal at a classic pub, or restock your supplies at the major supermarkets. Whether you are setting up for a weekend of fishing or a longer stay to explore the region, Camo Crew Beach offers a comfortable and accessible slice of Murray River life.
Camo Crew Beach – VIC Location Map
Camo Crew Beach
- Address: Unnamed Road (Access via Simmie Rd/River Track), Echuca Village VIC 3564, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria / Local Management
- GPS Coordinates: -36.10273, 144.81012
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River in Echuca Village, approximately 12km east of the Echuca town centre.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents. There is generally plenty of room for larger groups.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks via Simmie Road. 2WD accessible in dry weather. Tracks can become boggy and slippery when wet; 4WD is recommended after rain.
- Site Surface: Natural bush floor, dirt, leaf litter, and some grassy patches.
Available Facilities
- Bush Camping with Toilet
- Toilets (Long-drop toilet available on-site).
- No Showers.
- No Drinking Water.
- No Rubbish Bins (Carry in, Carry out).
- River Access (Bank fishing and boat launching).
- Campfires Permitted (In constructed fireplaces only, subject to fire bans).
Essentials to Bring
- Water: Bring all drinking and washing water.
- Rubbish Bags: You must take all waste with you.
- Toilet Paper: Supplies in the drop toilet may not be regular.
- 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 generally permitted in the Echuca Regional Park/Reserve areas but must be kept under control to protect wildlife.
- Fishing: Excellent. The river here holds Murray Cod, Golden Perch, and Carp. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
- Short Walks: Walking tracks follow the riverbank, connecting to other nearby camping spots like Christies Beach.
- Swimming: Possible from the riverbank. Always be aware of river currents, submerged logs, and cold water temperatures.
Local Amenities (Echuca & Moama)
Local Pubs
- The American Hotel: (Heygarth St, Echuca) Approx. 12km West.
- The Echuca Hotel: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 12km West.
- The Caledonian Hotel: (Hare St, Echuca) Approx. 12km West.
Places to Eat
- Echuca Curry Club: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 12km West.
- Beechworth Bakery Echuca: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 12km West.
- Port 53: (Murray Esplanade, Echuca) Approx. 12km West.
Local Attractions
- Port of Echuca Discovery Centre: (Murray Esplanade) Approx. 12km West – Historic paddle steamers.
- Great Aussie Beer Shed: (Mary Ann Rd) Approx. 15km West.
- National Holden Motor Museum: (Warren St) Approx. 12km West.
- Echuca Wharf: (Riverfront) Approx. 12km West.
- Silo Art (Rochester/Colbinabbin): Day trip distance south.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Discovery Parks – Echuca: (Ogden St) Approx. 11km West.
- NRMA Echuca Holiday Park: (Crofton St) Approx. 12km West.
- Rich River Tourist Park: (Crescent St) Approx. 13km West.
Nearest Free Camps
- Christies Beach: (Downstream) Approx. 4km West.
- Betts Beach: (Downstream) Approx. 5km West.
- Simmie Road Camping Area: (Adjacent) Approx. 1km.
Nearest Dump Points
- Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St, near roundabout) Approx. 12km West.
- Moama Public Dump Point: (Meninya St) Approx. 15km West.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- United Petroleum Echuca: (Northern Hwy) Approx. 11km West.
- Caltex Woolworths Echuca: (Nish St) Approx. 12km West.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St) Tap available. Approx. 12km West.
- Lions Park (Moama): Tap available. Approx. 14km West.
Nearest Public Toilets
- On-site: Drop toilet available.
- Lions Park (Echuca Village): (Simmie Rd/Looker Rd) Approx. 8km West.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Echuca
- Summer (December – February): Hot and dry. Average highs 30°C – 33°C. The river provides essential cooling.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild and sunny. Warm days (22°C – 27°C) and cooler nights. Ideal 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 19°C – 26°C. The bushland is vibrant.