Paddys Beach is a tranquil bush camping spot located within the Cobram Regional Park, nestled along the Victorian banks of the Murray River. Situated in the Quicks Beach precinct (accessed via Quicks Road), this site offers a slightly more secluded alternative to the main camping areas nearby. The location is defined by a beautiful, sweeping sandy beach that slopes gently into the river, making it an inviting spot for swimming, launching a canoe, or simply relaxing by the water’s edge under the shade of ancient River Red Gums.
The camping area features dispersed, unallocated sites that are spread out amongst the trees. Unlike manicured holiday parks, this is a true “bush camp” where you can find your own patch of ground to set up a swag, tent, or camper trailer. The ground is generally flat, consisting of compacted earth and leaf litter. The site is well-regarded by locals for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent fishing opportunities, with deep holes and snags nearby often holding Murray Cod and Golden Perch.
As a free site managed by Parks Victoria, there are no facilities directly at Paddys Beach. Campers must be completely self-sufficient, bringing their own toilet, shower, water, and power. This requirement helps strictly maintain the natural beauty of the area. Access is via unsealed forest tracks which branch off Quicks Road. These tracks are typically accessible by 2WD vehicles in dry weather but can become slippery and boggy after rain, so a 4WD is recommended during wetter months or for towing heavier caravans.
Despite feeling like a hidden retreat, Paddys Beach is conveniently located just a short drive from the twin towns of Barooga and Cobram. You are less than 10 minutes away from supermarkets, pubs, and cafes, allowing you to easily restock supplies or enjoy a meal out. Whether you are looking for a quiet weekend fishing trip or a scenic stopover on your Murray River adventure, Paddys Beach offers a perfect blend of riverside serenity and accessibility.
Paddys Beach – VIC Location Map
Paddys Beach (Located near Quicks Beach No. 2)
- Address: Unnamed Road (Access via Quicks Rd off Barooga-Cobram Rd), Cobram VIC 3644, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -35.92605, 145.70301
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River, approximately 5km west of Barooga and 8km north-west of Cobram. It is part of the Quicks Beach camping precinct.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans (off-road preferred due to tracks), camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks via Quicks Road. 2WD accessible in dry weather only. Tracks are clay-based and become slippery/boggy when wet. 4WD recommended if rain is forecast.
- Site Surface: Natural bush floor, dirt, leaf litter, and sandy patches near the river.
Available Facilities
- Bush Camping (No Amenities)
- No Toilets (You must bring a portable toilet). Note: There are public toilets at the nearby Quicks Beach entrance (approx. 500m away).
- No Showers.
- No Drinking Water.
- No Rubbish Bins (Carry in, Carry out).
- River Access (Sandy beach).
- Campfires Permitted (In constructed fireplaces only, subject to fire bans).
Essentials to Bring
- Portable Toilet: Highly recommended as on-site facilities are non-existent (nearest public toilet is a walk/drive away).
- 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 Cobram Regional Park but must be kept under control to protect wildlife and other campers.
- Fishing: Excellent. The river here has good structure for Murray Cod and Golden Perch. Bank fishing from the beach is popular. Victorian Fishing Licence required.
- Short Walks: You can explore the forest tracks on foot or walk along the riverbank to the main Quicks Beach area.
- Swimming: The sandy beach provides good access for swimming. Always be aware of river currents, submerged logs, and cold water.
Local Amenities (Barooga & Cobram)
Local Pubs
- Barooga Hotel: (Golf Course Rd, Barooga) Approx. 4km.
- Sporties Barooga: (Burkinshaw St, Barooga) Approx. 4.5km.
- Cobram Hotel (The Top Pub): (Main St, Cobram) Approx. 7km.
Places to Eat
- Big Mumma’s Kitchen: (High St, Cobram) Approx. 7km.
- Presto Pasta & Pizza: (High St, Cobram) Approx. 7km.
- The Beach Cafe: (Thompson’s Beach, Cobram) Approx. 6km.
- Barooga Hotel Bistro: (Barooga) Approx. 4km.
Local Attractions
- Cobram Barooga Golf Club: (Barooga) Approx. 5km – Renowned 36-hole course.
- Thompson’s Beach: (Cobram) Approx. 6km – Huge shaded inland beach.
- The Big Strawberry: (Koonoomoo) Approx. 12km.
- Cactus Country: (Strathmerton) Approx. 20km.
- Quinn’s Island Wetland Sanctuary: (River Rd) Approx. 8km.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Cobram Willows Caravan Park: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 5km.
- Oasis Caravan Park: (Koonoomoo Rd) Approx. 6km.
- RACV Cobram Resort: (Campbell Rd) Approx. 8km.
Nearest Free Camps
- Quicks Beach: (Adjacent) Approx. 500m East.
- Twin Knobs Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 2km East.
- Horseshoe Bend: (Downstream) Approx. 3km West.
Nearest Dump Points
- Barooga Recreation Reserve: (Snell Rd, Barooga) Approx. 5km.
- Federation Park Cobram: (Punt Rd) Approx. 7km.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- Mobil Cobram: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 6km.
- Woolworths Petrol: (Bank St, Cobram) Approx. 7km.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Barooga Recreation Reserve: (Snell Rd) Taps available. Approx. 5km.
- Federation Park (Cobram): Approx. 7km.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Quicks Beach Entrance: (Quicks Rd) Approx. 500m.
- Barooga Botanical Gardens: (Nangunia St) Approx. 4km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Cobram / Barooga
- Summer (December – February): Hot and dry. Average highs 30°C – 33°C, often higher. The river provides essential relief.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild and sunny. Warm days (22°C – 27°C) and cooler 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 likely. Campfires are popular.
- Spring (September – November): Warming up. Highs 18°C – 25°C. The forest is lush and vibrant.