Pianta Road Camp Grounds, frequently referred to by locals as Pianta Bend, is a serene dispersed bush camping area situated on the Victorian banks of the Murray River in Wharparilla. Located approximately 15 kilometres west of the bustling port town of Echuca, this site offers a peaceful retreat for travellers seeking to escape the crowds often found at the more central camping spots like Christies Beach. Nestled within the River Murray Reserve, the campground is defined by its high riverbanks, majestic River Red Gums, and a sense of isolation that appeals to those looking for a genuine back-to-basics experience.
The camping area features a variety of unallocated, dispersed sites that are spread along the river frontage and back into the bushland. The terrain is a mix of compacted earth, leaf litter, and grassy clearings, providing ample space for swags, tents, camper trailers, and off-road caravans. The river bend at this location creates deep, slow-moving pools that are ideal for fishing, while the surrounding forest provides a habitat for a diverse range of native birdlife, including kookaburras, parrots, and waterbirds. The canopy of the Red Gums offers essential shade during the heat of the day, making it a comfortable spot to relax with a book or watch the river flow by.
As a free bush camping site managed by Parks Victoria, there are no facilities at Pianta Road. There are no toilets, showers, or drinking water taps available on-site. Visitors must be completely self-sufficient, bringing their own portable toilet, water, and power supplies. This “leave no trace” philosophy is crucial for maintaining the pristine condition of the environment. Access is via Pianta Road, which turns into unsealed forest tracks. These tracks are generally navigable by 2WD vehicles in dry weather but can become extremely slippery and boggy after rain, so checking weather conditions and having a 4WD is highly recommended during wetter months.
Despite its secluded atmosphere, Pianta Road Camp Grounds is only a short 15-minute drive from Echuca. This proximity allows you to enjoy the tranquility of the bush while still having easy access to the town’s historic attractions, supermarkets, and dining options. Whether you are an angler chasing the elusive Murray Cod, a kayaker looking for a quiet launch spot, or a family seeking a budget-friendly camping adventure, Pianta Road offers a delightful and authentic slice of the Murray River.
Pianta Road camp grounds – VIC Location Map
Pianta Road Camp Grounds (Pianta Bend / River Murray Reserve)
- Address: 20 Stokes Ln (Access via Pianta Rd/Murray Valley Hwy), Echuca VIC 3564, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -36.08185, 144.68345
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River in Wharparilla, roughly 15km west of Echuca. Access is via Pianta Road off the Murray Valley Highway.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans (off-road preferred), camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents. Large rigs should check track clearance.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks. 2WD accessible in dry weather only. Tracks are clay-based and become slippery mud after rain. 4WD is recommended.
- Site Surface: Natural bush floor, dirt, leaf litter, and some 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 or tracks are wet.
Park Policies & Features
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted in the River Murray Reserve but must be kept under control to protect wildlife.
- Fishing: Excellent. The river bend provides deep water and snags suitable for Murray Cod and Golden Perch. 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. 15km East.
- The Echuca Hotel: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 15km East.
- Shamrock Hotel: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 15km East.
Places to Eat
- Echuca Curry Club: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 15km East.
- Beechworth Bakery Echuca: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 15km East.
- Port 53: (Murray Esplanade, Echuca) Approx. 15km East.
- Monkee & Co: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 15km East.
Local Attractions
- Port of Echuca Discovery Centre: (Murray Esplanade) Approx. 15km East – Historic paddle steamers.
- Great Aussie Beer Shed: (Mary Ann Rd) Approx. 12km East.
- National Holden Motor Museum: (Warren St) Approx. 15km East.
- Echuca Wharf: (Riverfront) Approx. 15km East.
- Silo Art (Rochester/Colbinabbin): Day trip distance south.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Discovery Parks – Echuca: (Ogden St) Approx. 14km East.
- NRMA Echuca Holiday Park: (Crofton St) Approx. 15km East.
- Rich River Tourist Park: (Crescent St) Approx. 16km East.
Nearest Free Camps
- Wills Bend: (Downstream) Approx. 4km West.
- Christies Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 7km East.
- Betts Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 8km East.
Nearest Dump Points
- Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St, near roundabout) Approx. 15km East.
- Moama Public Dump Point: (Meninya St) Approx. 18km East.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- United Petroleum Echuca: (Northern Hwy) Approx. 14km East.
- Caltex Woolworths Echuca: (Nish St) Approx. 15km East.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St) Tap available. Approx. 15km East.
- Lions Park (Moama): Tap available. Approx. 17km East.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Lions Park (Echuca Village): (Simmie Rd/Looker Rd) Approx. 10km East.
- Port of Echuca: Public toilets available in town. Approx. 15km 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.