River Bend Reserve is a stunning dispersed bush camping area located in the Wharparilla State Forest, approximately 22 kilometres west of Echuca. Nestled on a sweeping bend of the Murray River, this site offers a peaceful and secluded escape for campers who want to get away from the crowds and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region. The location is defined by its towering River Red Gum forests, high riverbanks, and direct access to the water, making it a haven for fishing, birdwatching, and relaxation.
The camping area features a variety of unallocated sites dispersed throughout the forest. Whether you are looking for a spot right on the riverbank to watch the water flow by or a sheltered clearing set back amongst the trees, there is plenty of room to find your perfect camp. The ground is a mix of compacted earth, leaf litter, and grassy patches, providing a solid base for swags, tents, and off-road caravans. The bend in the river creates deep pools and snaggy areas that are prime habitat for native fish, making it a popular spot for anglers chasing Murray Cod and Golden Perch.
As a free bush camping site managed by Parks Victoria, there are no facilities at River Bend Reserve. There are no toilets, showers, or tap water available. Visitors must be completely self-sufficient, bringing their own portable toilet, water, and power supplies. This “leave no trace” philosophy helps to maintain the pristine condition of the forest and ensures it remains a sanctuary for the abundant wildlife, including kangaroos, kookaburras, and parrots.
Access is via unsealed forest tracks off the Murray Valley Highway (typically via O’Sullivan Road or similar access points). These tracks are generally navigable by 2WD vehicles in dry weather but can become extremely slippery and boggy after rain, so a 4WD is recommended during wetter months. Despite its remote feel, you are less than a 25-minute drive from the historic Port of Echuca, allowing you to enjoy the solitude of the bush while still being close enough to town for a pub meal, a river cruise, or to restock your supplies.
River Bend Reserve – VIC Location Map
River Bend Reserve (Wharparilla / River Murray Reserve)
- Address: Unnamed Road (Access via O’Sullivan Rd), Wharparilla VIC 3564, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -36.0378, 144.61069
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River in Wharparilla, approximately 22km west of Echuca. It is located near the Point Bend area.
- Site Suitable For: Off-road caravans, camper trailers, 4WD campers, and tents. Large motorhomes 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 recommended.
- Site Surface: Natural bush floor, dirt, leaf litter, and grassy clearings.
Available Facilities
- Bush Camping (No Amenities)
- No Toilets (You must bring a portable toilet). Nearest drop toilets are at Wills Bend (approx. 3-4km away).
- 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 on-site.
- 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 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. 22km East.
- The Echuca Hotel: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 22km East.
- The Caledonian Hotel: (Hare St, Echuca) Approx. 22km East.
Places to Eat
- Echuca Curry Club: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 22km East.
- Beechworth Bakery Echuca: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 22km East.
- Port 53: (Murray Esplanade, Echuca) Approx. 22km East.
- Monkee & Co: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 22km East.
Local Attractions
- Port of Echuca Discovery Centre: (Murray Esplanade) Approx. 22km East – Historic paddle steamers.
- Great Aussie Beer Shed: (Mary Ann Rd) Approx. 25km East.
- National Holden Motor Museum: (Warren St) Approx. 22km East.
- Echuca Wharf: (Riverfront) Approx. 22km East.
- Silo Art (Rochester/Colbinabbin): Day trip distance south.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Discovery Parks – Echuca: (Ogden St) Approx. 21km East.
- NRMA Echuca Holiday Park: (Crofton St) Approx. 22km East.
- Rich River Tourist Park: (Crescent St) Approx. 23km East.
Nearest Free Camps
- Wills Bend: (Adjacent) Approx. 3km East.
- Casey Bend: (Adjacent) Approx. 1km East.
- Betts Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 14km East.
Nearest Dump Points
- Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St, near roundabout) Approx. 22km East.
- Moama Public Dump Point: (Meninya St) Approx. 25km East.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- United Petroleum Echuca: (Northern Hwy) Approx. 21km East.
- Caltex Woolworths Echuca: (Nish St) Approx. 22km East.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St) Tap available. Approx. 22km East.
- Lions Park (Moama): Tap available. Approx. 25km East.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Wills Bend: Drop toilet available approx. 3-4km away.
- Lions Park (Echuca Village): (Simmie Rd/Looker Rd) Approx. 18km 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.