Escape to the tranquil waters of Kings Billabong Camp (also known as the Kings Billabong Bush Camping area), a stunning natural reserve located just minutes from the heart of Mildura in Nichols Point, Victoria. This dispersed bush camping area offers a unique opportunity to camp directly on the banks of the mighty Murray River, surrounded by majestic River Red Gums and prolific birdlife. It is a favourite spot for self-sufficient travellers who want to enjoy the peace of the bush while remaining close to the amenities of a major regional city.
Managed by Parks Victoria, the camping area is part of the broader Kings Billabong Wildlife Reserve. The sites are unallocated and dispersed along the riverbank, allowing you to find your own secluded spot. Whether you are setting up a swag, a tent, or parking an off-road caravan, the flat, shaded areas provide a perfect setting. The reserve is renowned for its mirror-like waters which are ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and photography, particularly at sunrise and sunset when the colours of the bush come alive.
As a designated bush camping zone, there are limited facilities on-site, meaning campers must be fully self-contained. This helps preserve the pristine nature of the environment. The area is a haven for nature lovers, with walking tracks that wind through the floodplain and opportunities to spot Whistling Kites, Pelicans, and other waterbirds. Nearby, the historic Psyche Bend Pump Station offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s irrigation history.
Access is generally good for most vehicles in dry weather, but tracks can become slippery and boggy after rain, so caution is advised. With its combination of natural beauty, free camping, and proximity to Mildura’s famous “Feast Street” and wineries, Kings Billabong Camp is an unbeatable base for your Sunraysia adventure.
Kings billabong camp – VIC Location Map
Kings Billabong Camp (Kings Billabong Wildlife Reserve)
- Address: Unamed Road (off Psyche Bend Rd), Nichols Point VIC 3501, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -34.20974, 142.24146
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the banks of the Murray River within the Kings Billabong Wildlife Reserve, near Nichols Point and Irymple. It is approximately 12km from Mildura CBD.
- Site Suitable For: Off-road caravans, camper trailers, tents, and swags. Large motorhomes should check track conditions and height clearance.
- Road Access: Unsealed dirt tracks. 2WD accessible in dry weather only. Tracks can become impassable for 2WDs after rain.
- Site Surface: Natural riverbank, dirt, and leaf litter. Sites are dispersed and unallocated.
Available Facilities
- Bush Camping (No Amenities on sites)
- No Power.
- No Showers.
- No Drinking Water.
- No Rubbish Bins (Carry in, Carry out policy applies).
- Toilets: There are toilets located near the Psyche Bend Pump Station (approx. 1-2km away), but not directly at most dispersed campsites.
- River Access for swimming and fishing.
- Boat Ramp nearby (Bruce’s Bend or Psyche Bend).
Essentials to Bring
- Portable Toilet: Highly recommended as facilities are distant.
- Water: Bring all drinking and washing water.
- Rubbish Bags: You must take all rubbish with you.
- Firewood: Bring your own clean firewood (collection within the park is often prohibited).
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes are prevalent near the water.
- Recovery Gear: Essential if rain is forecast.
Park Policies & Features
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted but must be kept on a lead to protect wildlife.
- Fishing: Excellent. The Murray River and the Billabong offer great fishing for Golden Perch (Yellowbelly), Murray Cod, and Carp. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
- Short Walks: The Kings Billabong Nature Walk offers scenic trails including the Bird Hide Loop (3.5km) and Ducks Foot Lagoon Walk (9.5km).
- Swimming: Possible in the river, but be aware of currents, snags, and submerged logs.
Local Amenities (Nichols Point / Mildura / Irymple)
Local Pubs
- The Gateway Tavern: (Fifteenth St, Mildura) Approx. 6km
- Gol Gol Hotel: (Sturt Hwy, Gol Gol – NSW side) Approx. 8km
- Mildura Working Man’s Club: (Deakin Ave, Mildura) Approx. 9km
Places to Eat
- Trentham Estate Winery: (Sturt Hwy, Trentham Cliffs – River dining) Approx. 6km (via boat or road)
- Pizza Cafe at the Grand: (Langtree Ave, Mildura) Approx. 9km
- Stefano’s Cafe: (Langtree Ave, Mildura) Approx. 9km
- Irymple Hotel (The Pub): (Fifteenth St, Irymple) Approx. 5km
Local Attractions
- Psyche Bend Pump Station: (Kings Billabong) Historic steam-powered pumps. Approx. 1km.
- Kings Billabong Walks: (On-site) Nature trails and bird hides.
- Orange World: (Mourquong NSW) Approx. 10km.
- Mildura Holden Motor Museum: (Buronga NSW) Approx. 9km.
- Paddle Steamer Cruises: (Mildura Wharf) Approx. 9km.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Rivergardens Holiday Park: (Gol Gol NSW) Approx. 7km.
- Mildura Riverview Motel & Caravan Park: (Mildura) Approx. 8km.
Nearest Free Camps
- This location (Kings Billabong) is a free camp.
- Bruce’s Bend: (Near Marina) Approx. 4km West.
- Bottle Bend Reserve: (NSW side) Approx. 20km East.
Nearest Dump Points
- Mildura Public Dump Point: Benetook Ave (Between 11th & 14th St) Approx. 5km.
- Irymple: (Check local listings, usually near Council depot).
Nearest Petrol Stations
- Ampol Mildura (15th & Walnut): Approx. 5km.
- Sunraysia Petroleum Irymple: Approx. 5km.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Mildura Public Dump Point: Benetook Ave (Tap often available). Approx. 5km.
- Midway Centre (Buronga): Public tap. Approx. 8km.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Psyche Bend Pump Station: (Kings Billabong) Approx. 1-2km.
- Apex Park: (Cureton Ave, Mildura) Approx. 8km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Mildura
- Summer (December – February): Hot and dry. Average temperatures range from 17°C to 33°C, often exceeding 40°C. Shade is essential.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild and sunny. Warm days and cooler nights. Average temperatures range from 10°C to 27°C. Perfect for bush camping.
- Winter (June – August): Cool and crisp. Average temperatures between 5°C and 16°C. Nights can be cold, but days are often sunny. Campfires are popular.
- Spring (September – November): Warming up with pleasant sunny days. Average temperatures range from 9°C to 26°C.