Irene’s Corner is a secluded bush camping gem located on the Victorian banks of the Murray River in Wharparilla, just a short drive west of Echuca. Tucked away within the river red gum forests, this site offers a quieter alternative to the more popular beaches closer to town. It is perfect for self-sufficient campers who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful spot right on the water’s edge, with the majestic river flowing by and the sounds of the bush as your soundtrack.
The camping area features dispersed, unallocated sites nestled amongst the trees. The ground is typical of the riverine environment—compacted earth, leaf litter, and some grassy patches—suitable for swags, tents, and off-road caravans. The river access here is generally good, with banks suitable for fishing or launching a kayak to explore the snags and bends of the Murray. The dense canopy of River Red Gums provides welcome shade during the warmer months, making it a comfortable spot to relax and unwind.
As a free bush camping site, there are no facilities at Irene’s Corner. There are no toilets, showers, or tap water available. Visitors must be completely self-sufficient, bringing their own portable toilet, water, and power. This “leave no trace” philosophy helps maintain the serenity of the location. Access is via unsealed forest tracks (typically off Wharparilla Road or similar river access tracks). These tracks are generally accessible by 2WD in dry weather but can become slippery and boggy after rain, so driving to conditions and carrying recovery gear is recommended.
Despite its secluded feel, Irene’s Corner is only about 10-15 minutes from the heart of Echuca. This means you are never far from the historic port precinct, excellent pubs, and major supermarkets if you need to restock. Whether you are an angler looking for a quiet bend to catch a Yellowbelly or a family seeking a simple bush camp experience, Irene’s Corner offers a delightful slice of the Murray River without the hustle and bustle.
Irene’s corner – VIC Location Map
Irene’s Corner
- Address: Unnamed Road (Access via Wharparilla area tracks), Echuca VIC 3564, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -36.08801, 144.71921
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River in Wharparilla, approximately 10km west of the Echuca town centre.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans (off-road preferred), camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents. Sites are dispersed.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks. 2WD accessible in dry weather only. Tracks are clay-based and can become slippery/boggy when wet. 4WD recommended if rain is forecast.
- Site Surface: Natural bush floor, dirt, leaf litter, and grassy patches.
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 (Bank fishing/kayak launch).
- 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).
- 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 Regional Park areas but must be kept under control to protect wildlife.
- Fishing: Excellent. The river here holds Murray Cod, Golden Perch, and Carp. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
- Short Walks: Walking tracks wind through the Red Gum forest along the riverbank.
- Swimming: Possible from the riverbank. Always be aware of river currents, submerged logs, and cold water temperatures.
Local Amenities (Echuca & Moama)
Local Pubs
- The American Hotel: (Heygarth St, Echuca) Approx. 10km East.
- The Echuca Hotel: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 10km East.
- Shamrock Hotel: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 10km East.
Places to Eat
- Echuca Curry Club: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 10km East.
- Beechworth Bakery Echuca: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 10km East.
- Antonio’s: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 10km East.
- Port 53: (Murray Esplanade, Echuca) Approx. 10km East.
Local Attractions
- Port of Echuca Discovery Centre: (Murray Esplanade) Approx. 10km East – Historic paddle steamers.
- Great Aussie Beer Shed: (Mary Ann Rd) Approx. 15km East.
- National Holden Motor Museum: (Warren St) Approx. 10km East.
- Echuca Wharf: (Riverfront) Approx. 10km East.
- Silo Art (Rochester/Colbinabbin): Day trip distance south.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Discovery Parks – Echuca: (Ogden St) Approx. 9km East.
- NRMA Echuca Holiday Park: (Crofton St) Approx. 10km East.
- Rich River Tourist Park: (Crescent St) Approx. 11km East.
Nearest Free Camps
- Wills Bend: (Downstream) Approx. 7km West.
- Christies Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 4km East.
- Betts Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 3km East.
Nearest Dump Points
- Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St, near roundabout) Approx. 10km East.
- Moama Public Dump Point: (Meninya St) Approx. 13km East.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- United Petroleum Echuca: (Northern Hwy) Approx. 9km East.
- Caltex Woolworths Echuca: (Nish St) Approx. 10km East.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St) Tap available. Approx. 10km East.
- Lions Park (Moama): Tap available. Approx. 12km East.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Echuca Lions Park (Rest Area): (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 8km East.
- Port of Echuca: Public toilets available in town. Approx. 10km East.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Echuca
- Summer (December – February): Hot and dry. Average highs 30°C – 33°C. The river provides essential cooling.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild and sunny. Warm days (22°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): Pleasant warming trend. Highs 19°C – 26°C. The bushland is vibrant.