Discover one of the Mildura region’s best-kept secrets: the “Free camp on the river” located at Nichols Point. This idyllic bush camping area offers a serene escape on the banks of the magnificent Murray River, providing a perfect opportunity for travellers to unwind without the expense of a formal caravan park. It is a genuine free camp, ideal for those who are fully self-contained and looking for a peaceful, pet-friendly retreat.
The campground consists of various dispersed, unmarked sites nestled among the trees along the riverbank. This setup allows for excellent privacy and a true sense of being in nature. The spacious, flat-ground areas are suitable for all types of setups, from swags and tents to camper trailers and self-contained caravans or motorhomes. The main drawcard is the direct access to the Murray River, offering beautiful water views, stunning sunsets, and a tranquil atmosphere.
This location is a haven for anglers, with ample opportunities to cast a line for Murray Cod or Golden Perch right from your campsite. The calm waters are also perfect for kayaking, canoeing, or simply taking a refreshing dip on a hot Sunraysia day. Birdwatchers will enjoy the abundant wildlife, including pelicans, swans, and parrots.
It is crucial to understand that this is a 100% self-sufficient campsite. There are absolutely no facilities on-site – no toilets, no potable water, and no rubbish bins. Campers must bring their own chemical toilet and be prepared to take every single piece of rubbish with them when they leave. Access is via unsealed dirt roads which can become dusty in dry weather or potentially boggy after heavy rain. While 2WD vehicles can typically manage in the dry, 4WD is recommended for peace of mind. Despite its secluded feel, the camp is only a 10-15 minute drive from the full amenities of Mildura.
Free Camp on the River – Nichols Point – VIC Location Map
Nichols Point
- Address: Q6VH+QG, Nichols Point VIC 3501, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -34.20556, 142.22886
Site Features & Facilities
- Location: Dispersed, informal bush camping on the banks of the Murray River.
- Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained vehicles (caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers), tents, and swags.
- Road Access: Unsealed dirt tracks. 2WD accessible in dry weather; 4WD recommended after rain.
- Site Surface: Natural ground / dirt. Sites are unmarked.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Unspecified. Please adhere to local signage and council guidelines.
- Picnic Tables: No.
- Potable Water: **No.** You must bring all your own water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Yes, good mobile reception reported (Telstra/Optus).
- TV Reception: Variable.
- Onsite Public Toilets: **No.** You must be fully self-contained with your own toilet.
- Ullage (Dump Point): No.
- Drive Through: No (informal, unpaved area).
- Rubbish Bins: **No.** You must take all rubbish with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted, subject to local CFA fire danger periods and Total Fire Bans.
- Generator Use: Permitted (please be considerate of other campers).
- Number of Sites Available: Multiple, dispersed, unmarked sites.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, chemical toilet, rubbish bags, firewood, insect repellent.
- Pet Friendly: **Yes,** dogs are allowed (must be under control).
- Fishing: Yes, excellent river fishing. A VIC fishing licence is required.
- Short Walks: Yes, informal walks along the riverbank.
Local Amenities (in nearby Nichols Point & Mildura)
- Local Pubs:
- Irymple Hotel (approx. 6km)
- Mildura Club (approx. 9km)
- Mildura RSL Club (approx. 10km)
- Places to Eat:
- Willow + Ivie (Nichols Point, approx. 2km)
- Springfields Restaurant and Café (Mildura, approx. 9km)
- 400 Gradi Mildura (Mildura, approx. 9km)
- Local Attractions:
- Kings Billabong Wildlife Reserve (approx. 7km)
- Mildura Arts Centre (approx. 9km)
- Paddlesteamers Mildura (on the Murray, approx. 10km)
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Palms Caravan Park Mildura (approx. 1km)
- Buronga Riverside Caravan Park (approx. 3.4km)
- RiverGardens Holiday Park Mildura (approx. 3.8km)
- Next Free Camps:
- Bruces Bend River Camping (approx. 2km)
- Kings Billabong Free Camp (Psyche Bend Rd, approx. 7km)
- Horseshoe Bend (Iraak, approx. 20km)
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Benetook Depot (468 Benetook Avenue, Mildura, approx. 8km)
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Multiple stations (Ampol, Shell, BP) in Mildura (approx. 8-10km)
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Mildura Visitor Information Centre (check for public tap, approx. 9km)
- Benetook Depot (dump point may have a non-potable rinse tap; check signage)
- Public Toilets (Town):**
- Nichols Point Recreation Reserve (Koorlong Avenue, approx. 1.5km)
Seasonal Weather Forecast (Based on Mildura Averages)
- Summer (Dec – Feb): Hot and dry. Average maximums are around 32°C, with minimums around 17°C.
- Autumn (Mar – May):** Warm days cooling to mild. Average maximums drop from 28°C in March to 20°C in May.
- Winter (Jun – Aug):** Cool. Average maximums are 15-17°C, with cool nights averaging 4-6°C.
- Spring (Sep – Nov):** Mild and warming. Average maximums rise from 20°C in September to 29°C in November.