Horseshoe Bend Camping Area offers an idyllic escape on the banks of the Murray River, located just a short distance west of Cobram. This dispersed bush camping zone is part of the Cobram Regional Park and is favoured by locals and seasoned campers for its spaciousness and classic river scenery. As the name suggests, the site is situated on a dramatic bend in the river, creating a large, sweeping sandy beach that is perfect for swimming, launching kayaks, or simply relaxing by the water’s edge.
The camping area is set amongst a forest of towering River Red Gums, providing ample shade and a true bush atmosphere. Sites are unallocated and spread out along the riverbank, offering plenty of room for caravans, camper trailers, and tents. Unlike some of the busier beaches closer to town, Horseshoe Bend often provides a quieter, more secluded experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the sounds of nature. It is an excellent spot for birdwatching, with Kookaburras, Whistling Kites, and Cockatoos frequently seen in the canopy.
As a free bush camping site managed by Parks Victoria, Horseshoe Bend has no amenities. There are no toilets, showers, or drinking water available, so campers must be completely self-sufficient. This “leave no trace” approach helps maintain the pristine condition of the park. Access is via unsealed tracks that wind through the forest; while generally accessible by 2WD in dry conditions, they can become boggy after rain, so checking conditions is essential.
Despite its feeling of isolation, Horseshoe Bend is only a 10-minute drive from the amenities of Cobram and Barooga. This makes it easy to pop into town for supplies, a pub meal, or to visit local attractions like the Big Strawberry before returning to your private campfire under the stars. For those seeking a genuine Murray River camping experience with plenty of space and freedom, Horseshoe Bend is a top choice.
Horseshoe Bend Camping area – VIC Location Map
Horseshoe Bend Camping Area
- Address: Unamed Road (Access via Horseshoe Track/River Rd), Cobram VIC 3644, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -35.93139, 145.69616
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River, approximately 6-8km west of the Cobram town centre. It is located downstream from Thompson’s Beach.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans (including large off-roaders), camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents.
- Road Access: Unsealed access via River Road and Horseshoe Track. Tracks are hard-packed dirt suitable for 2WD in dry weather. Caution: Tracks become slippery mud after rain; 4WD is recommended in wet conditions.
- Site Surface: Natural bush ground, sand near the river, and grassy areas under the trees.
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 (Large sandy beach areas).
- Campfires Permitted (In constructed fireplaces only, subject to fire bans).
Essentials to Bring
- Portable Toilet: Mandatory as there are no facilities.
- Water: Bring sufficient drinking and washing water for your stay.
- Rubbish Bags: You must take all waste with you.
- Firewood: Bring clean firewood (collecting is often restricted).
- Insect Repellent: Essential, especially at dusk and dawn.
- Shovel: For campfire safety.
- Recovery Gear: Recommended if rain is forecast.
Park Policies & Features
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted in the Cobram Regional Park but must be kept under control.
- Fishing: Excellent. The bend creates deep holes and snags that are ideal for Murray Cod and Golden Perch. Bank fishing is easily accessible. Victorian Fishing Licence required.
- Short Walks: Walking tracks follow the river through the Red Gum forest, offering great opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
- Swimming: The sandy beach provides good access for swimming. Always be aware of river currents and submerged obstacles.
Local Amenities (Cobram & Barooga)
Local Pubs
- Cobram Hotel (The Top Pub): (Main St) Approx. 8km
- Barooga Hotel: (Golf Course Rd, Barooga NSW) Approx. 10km
- Sporties Barooga: (Burkinshaw St) Approx. 10.5km
Places to Eat
- Big Mumma’s Kitchen: (High St) Approx. 8km
- Presto Pasta & Pizza: (High St) Approx. 8km
- The Beach Cafe: (Thompson’s Beach) Approx. 7km
- Main Street Bakeries: (Main St) Approx. 8km
Local Attractions
- Thompson’s Beach: (Rockarama Rd) Approx. 7km – Large shaded inland beach with facilities.
- The Big Strawberry: (Koonoomoo) Approx. 12km – Local produce and cafe.
- Cactus Country: (Strathmerton) Approx. 15km.
- Cobram Barooga Golf Club: (Barooga) Approx. 11km.
- Byramine Homestead & Brewery: (Yarrawonga Rd) Approx. 25km.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Oasis Caravan Park: (Koonoomoo Rd) Approx. 6km (Closest).
- Cobram Willows Caravan Park: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 8km.
- RACV Cobram Resort: (Campbell Rd) Approx. 9km.
Nearest Free Camps
- Little Toms Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 4km East.
- Scotts Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 8km East.
- Big Toms Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 5km East.
Nearest Dump Points
- Federation Park Cobram: (Punt Rd) Approx. 8km.
- Barooga Recreation Reserve: (Barooga) Approx. 11km.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- Mobil Cobram: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 8km.
- Woolworths Petrol: (Bank St) Approx. 8.5km.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Federation Park: (Punt Rd) Taps available. Approx. 8km.
- Cobram Showgrounds: (Bank St) Check availability. Approx. 8.5km.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Thompson’s Beach: (Rockarama Rd) Approx. 7km.
- Federation Park: (Punt Rd) Approx. 8km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Cobram
- Summer (December – February): Hot and dry. Average highs 30°C – 33°C, often higher. The river provides welcome relief.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild and sunny. Warm days (22°C – 27°C) and cool nights. Perfect for bush camping.
- Winter (June – August): Cool to cold. Average highs 13°C – 15°C. Nights are cold (3°C – 5°C) with frost. Campfires are essential.
- Spring (September – November): Pleasant warming trend. Highs 19°C – 26°C. Ideal for outdoor activities.