Forges Beach Number One is arguably the most popular and spectacular river beach in the Yarrawonga region. Located just a few kilometres west of the Yarrawonga town centre within the Yarrawonga Regional Park (often referred to locally as “The Common”), this site offers a quintessential Murray River experience. It is renowned for its massive, sweeping sandbar that stretches gently into the water, making it a paradise for families, swimmers, and water sports enthusiasts. The sheer size of the beach means there is usually plenty of room for everyone, even during peak times, to stake out a spot on the sand for a day of relaxation.
The camping area behind the beach is set amongst a magnificent forest of River Red Gums. These ancient trees provide ample shade and a stunning natural canopy for your campsite. Unlike many remote bush camps, the sites here are quite accessible and spacious, catering to everything from small tents and swags to large caravans and fifth-wheelers. The ground is a mix of compacted dirt and grass, offering a solid base for setting up camp. Because it is a dispersed camping area managed by Parks Victoria, there are no designated bays—you simply find a spot that suits you and set up.
While Forges Beach feels like a bush retreat, its proximity to Yarrawonga is a major drawcard. You are less than a 10-minute drive from supermarkets, cafes, pubs, and the famous Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort. This allows campers to enjoy the best of both worlds: the tranquility of a riverside campfire at night and the convenience of a barista-made coffee in the morning.
It is important to note that despite its popularity, Forges Beach Number One is a “bush camp” with no facilities. There are no toilets, showers, or drinking water on-site. Visitors must be fully self-contained, bringing their own portable toilet and taking all rubbish with them. This ensures the preservation of this beautiful environment for future generations. Whether you’re launching a boat for a ski, casting a line for a Yellowbelly, or just watching the sunset turn the river cliffs to gold, Forges Beach Number One is a premier destination on the Murray.
Forges Beach Number One – VIC Location Map
Forges Beach Number One (Yarrawonga Regional Park)
- Address: Forges Beach Number One, Burramine VIC 3730, Australia (Access via Forges Pump Lane)
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -35.98361, 145.9503
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River, approximately 6km west of Yarrawonga. It is the first major beach area when entering the park from the east.
- Site Suitable For: Big rigs, caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, and tents. The area is open and spacious.
- Road Access: Unsealed access via Forges Pump Lane. The tracks are generally hard-packed and suitable for 2WD in dry weather. Caution: Tracks can become slippery mud after rain; check conditions if towing heavy loads.
- Site Surface: Natural bush ground, dirt, and leaf litter with large sandy beach areas.
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 (Huge sandy beach, excellent for swimming and boats).
- Campfires Permitted (In constructed fireplaces only, subject to fire bans).
Essentials to Bring
- Portable Toilet: Mandatory as there are no facilities and the area is popular.
- 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: Mosquitoes are active near the water.
- Recovery Gear: Recommended if rain is forecast.
Park Policies & Features
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted in the Yarrawonga Regional Park but must be kept under control.
- Fishing: Excellent. The river is wide and deep here, home to Murray Cod and Golden Perch. Bank fishing from the sandbar is very popular. Victorian Fishing Licence required.
- Short Walks: There are informal tracks winding through the Red Gum forest connecting to Forges Beach No. 2 and further west.
- Swimming: The large, gently sloping sandbar makes this one of the best swimming spots in the area. Always be careful of river currents.
Local Amenities (Yarrawonga & Mulwala)
Local Pubs
- Terminus Hotel: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 6km East.
- Burkes Hotel: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 6km East.
- Criterion Hotel: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 6.5km East.
Places to Eat
- The Naked Tree Cafe: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 6km.
- Belle’s Cafe: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 6km.
- Hard Luck Coffee Co: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 6km.
- Yarrawonga Bakery: (Belmore St) Approx. 6km.
Local Attractions
- Lake Mulwala: (Yarrawonga) Approx. 7km – Boating, fishing, and cruises.
- Yarrawonga Weir: (Weir Rd) Approx. 8km – Walk across the weir wall.
- Chinaman’s Island: (Yarrawonga) Approx. 8km – Walking tracks and birdwatching.
- Rich Glen Olive Estate: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 10km West.
- Byramine Homestead: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 9km West.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Yarrawonga Riverlands Tourist Park: (Brears Rd) Approx. 4km East.
- Yarrawonga Holiday Park: (Burley Rd) Approx. 6km East.
- NRMA Yarrawonga Mulwala Holiday Park: (Corowa Rd, Mulwala) Approx. 8km.
Nearest Free Camps
- Forges Beach Number Two: (Next beach west) Approx. 1km West.
- Nevins Beach: (Burramine) Approx. 9km West.
- Bruces Bend: (Yarrawonga) Approx. 9km East.
Nearest Dump Points
- Yarrawonga Showgrounds: (Dunlop St) Approx. 7km.
- Mulwala Public Dump Point: (Owen Bridges Reserve) Approx. 8km.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- United Petroleum Yarrawonga: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 5km.
- BP Yarrawonga: (Benalla-Yarrawonga Rd) Approx. 7km.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Yarrawonga Showgrounds: (Dunlop St) Taps usually available. Approx. 7km.
- Yarrawonga Foreshore: (Bank St) Approx. 7km.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Yarrawonga Foreshore: (Bank St) Approx. 7km.
- Yarrawonga Showgrounds: (Dunlop St) Approx. 7km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Yarrawonga
- Summer (December – February): Hot and dry. Average highs 30°C – 33°C, often higher. The river beach is the place to be.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild and pleasant. Warm days (21°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): Warming up. Highs 18°C – 25°C. The area is green and vibrant.