Nestled on the serene banks of the majestic Murray River, Richardsons Bend Campground offers a quintessential Australian bush camping experience without the price tag. Located just a short drive from the historic towns of Chiltern and Rutherglen in Victoria, this popular free campsite is a haven for travellers seeking tranquillity and a direct connection with nature. The campground is particularly well-suited for self-contained caravans and motorhomes, but tent campers will also find plenty of spacious, shaded spots to set up under the towering river red gums. The gentle flow of the Murray provides a calming soundtrack to your stay, whether you’re relaxing by the water’s edge or enjoying a campfire under the stars (seasonal restrictions apply).
Access is straightforward via the Murray Valley Highway, with a short drive down a well-maintained gravel road leading you into the expansive camping area. The ground is mostly level and consists of dirt and grass, making it suitable for a wide range of vehicles. While facilities are basic, they are well-maintained, typically including public toilets and rubbish bins, which helps preserve the pristine environment. The main attractions here are the simple pleasures: fishing for Murray cod, launching a kayak for a paddle, bird watching, or simply unwinding with a good book. Its prime location makes it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding wine regions and historic gold rush towns. For those looking for an authentic, peaceful, and budget-friendly stop along the Murray, Richardsons Bend is an unbeatable choice.
Richardsons Bend Campground – VIC Location Map
Richardsons Bend Campground
- Address: Murray Valley Highway, Barnawartha North, VIC3689
- GPS Coordinates: -36.048161, 146.743370
Campground Information
- Site Suitable For: Caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, big rigs, and tents.
- Road Access: Sealed highway, then a short, well-maintained gravel road.
- Site Surface: Dirt and grass.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Typically 72 hours (please obey local signage).
- Facilities: Basic, non-flush toilets.
- Potable Water: No, bring your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy reception (Telstra generally has the best coverage).
- TV Reception: Variable, may require a satellite dish.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes, please use them or take your rubbish with you.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to seasonal fire bans. Check local restrictions.
- Generator Use: Permitted, please be considerate of other campers.
- Number of Sites Available: Numerous unmarked sites over a large area.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, insect repellent, firewood, and levelling blocks.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash and under control.
Local Activities & Amenities
- Fishing: Excellent opportunities to fish for Murray Cod, Golden Perch, and other native species from the riverbank.
- Short Walks: Enjoy leisurely walks along the riverbank and through the surrounding bushland.
- Name and Distance to Local Pubs:
- Star Hotel, Chiltern – approx. 15 km
- The Publicans Daughter, Chiltern – approx. 15 km
- Corowa RSL Club – approx. 20 km
- Name and Distance to Places to Eat:
- Chiltern Bakery, Chiltern – approx. 15 km
- Various cafes and restaurants in Rutherglen – approx. 20 km
- Parker Pies, Rutherglen – approx. 20 km
- Name and Distance to Local Attractions:
- Rutherglen Wine Region – approx. 20 km
- Chiltern-Mt Pilot National Park – approx. 25 km
- Federation Museum, Corowa – approx. 20 km
- Name and Distance to Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Corowa Bindaree Holiday Park – approx. 18 km
- BIG4 Borderland Wodonga – approx. 25 km
- Name and Distance to Next Free Camps:
- Granya State Park (various sites) – approx. 50 km
- Police Paddocks, Howlong – approx. 40 km
- Name and Distance to Nearest Dump Points:
- Corowa Showgrounds & Recreation Reserve – approx. 20 km
- Wodonga RV Park Dump Point – approx. 25 km
- Name and Distance to Nearest Petrol Station:
- Various stations in Corowa – approx. 20 km
- Various stations in Wodonga – approx. 25 km
- Name and Distance to Drinking Water Resupply:
- Corowa Visitor Information Centre – approx. 20 km
- Wodonga Visitor Information Centre – approx. 25 km
- Name and Distance to Public Toilets:
- Onsite at the campground.
- Lowe Square, Corowa – approx. 20 km
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 32°C. High fire danger season.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild and pleasant, with sunny days and cooler nights. Temperatures range from 8°C to 25°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often overcast, with frosty mornings. Temperatures range from 3°C to 14°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and sunny, becoming warmer. A beautiful time to visit as the landscape turns green. Temperatures range from 7°C to 22°C.