For those seeking a truly rustic and unspoiled camping experience on the Murray River, Dead River Beach is a spectacular choice. This free, dispersed campground is located within the Cobram Regional Park, offering a genuine escape into nature just a few kilometres from the town centre. The campground is set along a magnificent, large sandy beach on a beautiful bend of the river, surrounded by iconic river red gums. It’s an idyllic location for self-sufficient campers who want to disconnect and enjoy the simple pleasures of the bush. The spacious area allows plenty of room for tents, camper trailers, and off-road caravans to find a private spot with stunning river views. It’s the perfect place to launch a kayak, cast a line for Murray Cod, or simply relax on the beach and watch the paddle steamers cruise by.
As a primitive bush camp, Dead River Beach has no facilities, which is part of its charm. Campers must be entirely self-contained, bringing their own portable toilet, drinking water, and all other necessary supplies. A strict ‘leave no trace’ philosophy is essential to preserve the pristine beauty of the area, meaning all rubbish must be taken with you. The access tracks can be rough and sandy, particularly after rain, making a 4WD or high-clearance vehicle highly recommended. It is important to note that to protect the sensitive riverside environment and its wildlife, **pets are not permitted** at this particular campground. For the well-prepared adventurer looking for a memorable and budget-friendly getaway that captures the wild, timeless spirit of the Murray, Dead River Beach is an unbeatable destination.
Dead River Beach – VIC Location Map
Dead River Beach Campground
Features & Rules
- Location: Secluded, large sandy beach on the banks of the Murray River.
- Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, and off-road camper trailers/caravans.
- Road Access: Unsealed tracks, 4WD or high-clearance vehicle recommended. Can be boggy when wet.
- Site Surface: Sand and natural earth.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free dispersed camping is permitted.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit.
- Facilities: None. This is a completely self-sufficient campsite.
- Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy, best with Telstra.
- Onsite Public Toilets: No. A portable toilet is essential.
- Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted, subject to seasonal fire bans.
- Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
- Number of Sites Available: Numerous undesignated, unpowered sites.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, portable toilet, firewood, rubbish bags, and insect repellent.
- Pet Friendly: No, pets are not permitted at this campground.
- Fishing: Excellent fishing in the Murray River.
- Short Walks: Informal walks along the riverbank.
Local Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- The Bottom Pub (Cobram) – approx. 6 km
- Cobram Hotel – approx. 6 km
- Grand Central Hotel (Cobram) – approx. 6 km
- Places to Eat:
- Various cafes, bakeries, and restaurants in Cobram’s main street – approx. 6 km
- Local Attractions:
- Thompsons Beach – approx. 4 km
- Quinns Island Wetland Sanctuary – approx. 5 km
- The Big Strawberry – approx. 5 km
Nearby Parks & Services
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Cobram Oasis Caravan Park – approx. 4 km
- RACV Cobram Resort – approx. 5 km
- Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
- Other dispersed campsites in Cobram Regional Park (e.g., Big Toms Beach, Scotts Beach).
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Cobram Showgrounds – approx. 7 km
- Nearest Petrol Station: Several options in Cobram – approx. 6 km.
- Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Cobram, e.g., at Thompsons Beach.
- Nearest Public Toilets: Thompsons Beach / Kennedy Park – approx. 4 km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and sunny, perfect for swimming and beach activities. Average maximum temperatures are around 32°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, pleasant days and milder nights. Ideal for picnics and walks. Average maximums range from 19°C to 28°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool days and cold nights. Often clear and sunny. Average maximums are around 14°C to 16°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and becoming warmer, with beautiful conditions for enjoying the outdoors. Average maximums range from 20°C to 27°C.
