Davis Beach (Tocumwal Regional Park) – serene Bush Camping on the Murray River

Davis Beach is a peaceful bush camping spot located within the Tocumwal Regional Park on the Victorian banks of the Murray River. Situated approximately 4 kilometres west of the historic railway town of Tocumwal, this site offers a quiet escape amongst the River Red Gums. It is part of a stretch of sandy bends that includes the popular Apex Beach, providing campers with excellent access to the water for swimming, fishing, and kayaking without the hustle and bustle of the main town foreshore.

The camping area features dispersed, unallocated sites that are nestled into the forest and along the riverbank. The terrain is typical of the region, with compacted earth, leaf litter, and grassy clearings providing a solid base for tents, camper trailers, and caravans. The river bend here creates a gentle flow and often reveals a sandy beach area, perfect for pulling up a chair and watching the river go by or launching a small tinny to explore the snags. The shade from the mature gum trees is a welcome relief during the warmer months.

As a free site managed by Parks Victoria, Davis Beach has no facilities. There are no toilets, showers, or tap water on-site. 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 and the atmosphere peaceful. Access is via unsealed forest tracks off the Goulburn Valley Highway, 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, Davis Beach is incredibly convenient. You are just a short drive from the bridge crossing into Tocumwal, where you can access supermarkets, pubs, cafes, and the famous Tocumwal Bakery. Whether you are looking for a base to fish for Murray Cod, a spot to launch your canoe, or simply a quiet place to camp under the stars, Davis Beach offers an authentic and accessible Murray River experience.

Davis Beach – VIC Location Map

Davis Beach (Tocumwal Regional Park)

• Address: Unnamed Road (Access via Goulburn Valley Hwy), Tocumwal VIC 3644 (Vic side), Australia
• Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
• GPS Coordinates: -35.80822, 145.53953

Site Information

• Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River, approximately 4km west (downstream) of the Tocumwal bridge. It is near Apex Beach.
• Site Suitable For: Caravans (including off-road), 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 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/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/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. A popular spot for bank fishing. Murray Cod and Golden Perch are common. Victorian Fishing Licence required.
• Short Walks: Walking tracks wind through the Red Gum forest, connecting to other beaches like Apex Beach.
• Swimming: Possible from the riverbank. Always be aware of river currents, submerged logs, and cold water.

Local Amenities (Tocumwal & Surrounds)

Local Pubs

• Terminus Hotel: (Dean St, Tocumwal) Approx. 4km.
• Farmers Arms Hotel (Kelly’s Bistro): (Hennessy St, Tocumwal) Approx. 4km.
• Tattersalls Hotel: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 4km.

Places to Eat

• The Old Bank Lunch & Dinner: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 4km.
• Tocumwal Ice Creamery: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 4km.
• Tocumwal Bakery: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 4km.
• The Palms Pub: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 4km.

Local Attractions

• The Big Murray Cod: (Tocumwal Foreshore) Approx. 4km – Iconic Australian “Big Thing”.
• Tocumwal Aviation Museum: (Tocumwal Airport) Approx. 7km – Fascinating WWII history.
• Tocumwal Blowhole & The Rocks: (Tuppal Rd) Approx. 18km North.
• Cactus Country: (Strathmerton) Approx. 12km West.
• Chrystie’s Museum: (Tocumwal) Approx. 6km – Vintage cars and collectibles.

Nearest Caravan Parks

• Boomerang Way Tourist Park: (Murray St, Tocumwal) Approx. 5km.
• Tocumwal Tourist Park: (Bruton St, Tocumwal) Approx. 4.5km.
• Cobram Oasis Caravan Park: (Koonoomoo Rd) Approx. 8km West.

Nearest Free Camps

• Apex Beach: (Adjacent) Approx. 1km East.
• Town Beach (Tocumwal): (NSW Side) Approx. 4km.
• Wilsons Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 5km East.

Nearest Dump Points

• Tocumwal Town Beach (NSW Side): (Deniliquin St) Approx. 4km.
• Barooga Recreation Reserve: (Barooga) Approx. 20km.

Nearest Petrol Stations

• Shell Tocumwal: (Dean St) Approx. 4km.
• BP Tocumwal: (Murray St) Approx. 5km.
• United Petroleum Tocumwal: (Newell Hwy) Approx. 6km.

Nearest Drinking Water Resupply

• Tocumwal Foreshore: (Deniliquin St) Taps available. Approx. 4km.
• Apex Park (Tocumwal): Approx. 4km.

Nearest Public Toilets

• Tocumwal Foreshore: (Deniliquin St) Approx. 4km.
• Apex Park (Tocumwal): 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.