Sharps Beach (often spelled Sharpe’s Beach) offers a tranquil and secluded bush camping experience on the banks of the Murray River, located within the River Murray Reserve near Burramine. Situated approximately 12 kilometres west of Yarrawonga, this site is further removed from the town centre than popular spots like Forges Beach, providing a quieter atmosphere for those seeking solitude and a genuine connection with nature. The camping area is nestled behind a screen of trees, opening up to a large, sandy beach that slopes gently into the river.
The site is characterized by its informal, dispersed camping layout. There are no designated bays, allowing campers to set up their swags, tents, or camper trailers in a spot that suits them best—either close to the water for easy access or further back in the bush for added shelter. The ground is a mix of natural earth and leaf litter, shaded by the iconic River Red Gums that line the Murray. It is a fantastic location for birdwatching, with the dense forest providing habitat for a wide variety of native species.
As a free bush camping site, Sharps Beach has **no facilities**. There are no toilets, showers, or tap water available. Visitors must be completely self-sufficient, bringing their own portable toilet, water, and power. This requirement helps keep the area pristine and discourages overcrowding. Access is via unsealed forest tracks (Sharps Track) which can be navigated by 2WD vehicles in dry weather, though the surface can become slippery and difficult after rain, making 4WD a safer option during wetter months.
While you enjoy the peace and quiet of the river, you are still within easy reach of the region’s attractions. The historic Byramine Homestead is just a short drive west, perfect for a morning tea or cider tasting. Ideally situated for fishing enthusiasts, the river here offers good opportunities to catch Murray Cod and Golden Perch. Whether you are launching a kayak for a paddle or simply relaxing by a campfire, Sharps Beach is a hidden gem for self-contained travellers.
Sharps Beach – VIC Location Map
Sharps Beach (Sharpe’s Beach / River Murray Reserve)
- Address: Sharps Track, Burramine VIC 3730, Australia (Access via Murray Valley Hwy)
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -35.96321, 145.9063
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River, approximately 10-12km west of Yarrawonga. Access is via Sharps Track off the Murray Valley Highway.
- Site Suitable For: Camper trailers, off-road caravans, and tents. Access for large motorhomes may be restricted by overhanging branches on the forest track.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest track. 2WD accessible in dry weather only. Tracks are clay-based and become extremely slippery and boggy when wet. 4WD is recommended.
- Site Surface: Natural bush floor, dirt, and sand near the riverbank.
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 (Sandy beach for swimming/fishing).
- 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.
Park Policies & Features
- Pet Friendly: Check Signage. While many regional parks are dog-friendly, specific sites like Sharps Beach may have restrictions to protect wildlife. Some sources indicate “No Dogs”. Please verify local signage upon entry to avoid fines.
- Fishing: Excellent. The area creates good eddies and snags for Murray Cod and Golden Perch. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
- Short Walks: Walking tracks wind through the Burramine State Forest and River Red Gum reserves.
- Swimming: The sandy beach provides good access for swimming. Be aware of currents, snags, and cold water temperatures.
Local Amenities (Yarrawonga & Surrounds)
Local Pubs
- Terminus Hotel: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 12km East.
- Burkes Hotel: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 12km East.
- Bundalong Tavern: (Murray Valley Hwy, Bundalong) Approx. 25km East.
Places to Eat
- Byramine Homestead & Brewery: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 4km West – Historic homestead with cafe and cider.
- The Naked Tree Cafe: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 12km.
- Belle’s Cafe: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 12km.
- Rich Glen Provedore: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 12km.
Local Attractions
- Byramine Homestead: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 4km – National Trust classified homestead.
- Lake Mulwala: (Yarrawonga) Approx. 12km – Boating, fishing, and scenic cruises.
- Rich Glen Olive Estate: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 6km West – Farm gate shop and cafe.
- Chinaman’s Island: (Yarrawonga) Approx. 14km – Walking tracks.
- Cactus Country: (Strathmerton) Approx. 25km West.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Yarrawonga Riverlands Tourist Park: (Brears Rd) Approx. 10km East.
- Yarrawonga Holiday Park: (Burley Rd) Approx. 12km East.
- Cobram Willows Caravan Park: (Cobram) Approx. 22km West.
Nearest Free Camps
- Bruces Beach No. 2: (Upstream) Approx. 3km East.
- Bourkes Bend: (Burramine) Approx. 8km West.
- Forges Beach: (Yarrawonga Regional Park) Approx. 6km East.
Nearest Dump Points
- Yarrawonga Showgrounds: (Dunlop St) Approx. 13km.
- Cobram Public Dump Point: (Federation Park) Approx. 25km.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- United Petroleum Yarrawonga: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 11km.
- Mobil Cobram: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 22km.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Yarrawonga Showgrounds: (Dunlop St) Taps usually available. Approx. 13km.
- Federation Park (Cobram): Approx. 25km.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Yarrawonga Foreshore: (Bank St) Approx. 12km.
- Byramine Homestead: (For patrons) Approx. 4km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Yarrawonga
- Summer (December – February): Hot and dry. Average highs 30°C – 33°C, often higher. Shade and river access are vital.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild and pleasant. Warm days (21°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 are essential.
- Spring (September – November): Warming up. Highs 18°C – 25°C. The forest is green and vibrant.