Escape to the tranquility of the Murray River at Shaws Flat Camping Area, a stunning dispersed bush camping reserve located just north of the historic wine town of Rutherglen. This site is a hidden gem for self-sufficient campers looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature. Nestled amongst majestic river red gums, Shaws Flat offers a true bush experience with direct access to the water, making it a paradise for anglers, kayakers, and birdwatchers.
As a free camping area managed by Parks Victoria, Shaws Flat is popular for its spacious, unallocated sites that stretch along the riverbank. There are no designated bays, allowing you to find your own perfect slice of river frontage to set up your swag, tent, or off-road caravan. The atmosphere is peaceful and relaxed, with the sounds of the river and native wildlife providing the perfect soundtrack to your stay. It is an excellent base for exploring the nearby Rutherglen wine region during the day and returning to a roaring campfire under the stars at night.
It is important to note that Shaws Flat is a “bush camp” in the truest sense. There are absolutely no facilities on-site—no toilets, no showers, and no running water. Visitors must be completely self-contained and practice “leave no trace” principles to preserve this beautiful environment. Access is via unsealed tracks which can be prone to flooding or becoming boggy after rain, so dry weather access is highly recommended.
Whether you’re launching a tinny from the natural bank to chase a Murray Cod, enjoying a refreshing swim on a hot summer’s day, or simply sitting back with a glass of local Durif by the fire, Shaws Flat offers an authentic and cost-free Murray River camping experience. Just a short drive from the amenities of Rutherglen and Corowa, you are never too far from a good coffee or a counter meal, offering the perfect balance of isolation and convenience.
Shaws Flat Camping Area (River Murray Reserve) – VIC Location Map
Shaws Flat Camping Area (River Murray Reserve)
- Address: Shaws Flat Rd, Carlyle VIC 3685, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -35.9903, 146.48906
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian banks of the Murray River, approximately 7km north of Rutherglen. Access is via Up River Road and Shaws Flat Road.
- Site Suitable For: Off-road caravans, camper trailers, tents, and swags. Large motorhomes may struggle with height clearance (branches) and uneven ground.
- Road Access: Unsealed dirt tracks. Dry weather access only is strongly recommended as the clay tracks become extremely slippery and boggy when wet.
- Site Surface: Natural bush ground, dirt, and grass. Sites are unallocated and dispersed.
Available Facilities
- NONE. This is a bush camping site.
- No Toilets (You must bring your own portable chemical toilet).
- No Showers.
- No Drinking Water.
- No Rubbish Bins (Carry in, Carry out).
- River Access (Natural banks for swimming/fishing).
- Boat Ramp (Dirt/Natural ramp nearby – 4WD recommended for launching).
Essentials to Bring
- Portable Toilet: Mandatory as there are no amenities.
- Water: Bring all drinking and washing water.
- Rubbish Bags: You must take all rubbish with you.
- Firewood: Bring your own clean firewood (collecting from the park is often prohibited/scarce).
- Recovery Gear: Essential if rain is forecast.
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be fierce near the water.
- Shovel: For campfire management (ensure fires are fully extinguished).
Park Policies & Features
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted but must be kept under control.
- Fishing: Excellent. The Murray River here holds Murray Cod, Golden Perch (Yellowbelly), and Carp. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
- Short Walks: There are no formal walking tracks, but you can walk for kilometres along the river tracks and explore the River Red Gum forests.
- Swimming: Possible in the river, but be aware of currents, snags, and variable water depths.
Local Amenities (Rutherglen & Corowa)
Local Pubs
- Poachers Paradise Hotel: (Main St, Rutherglen) Approx. 8km
- The Victoria Hotel Rutherglen: (Main St, Rutherglen) Approx. 8km
- Corowa Hotel: (Sanger St, Corowa – NSW side) Approx. 12km
Places to Eat
- Parker Pies: (Main St, Rutherglen – Famous pies) Approx. 8km
- Valentine’s Bakehouse: (Main St, Rutherglen) Approx. 8km
- Corowa Whisky and Chocolate: (Steel St, Corowa) Approx. 14km
- Tuileries Rutherglen: (Drummond St) Approx. 8.5km
Local Attractions
- Rutherglen Wineries: (Various locations) The region is famous for Durif and Muscat. Approx. 8-15km.
- Police Paddocks: (Nearby Reserve) Approx. 2-3km.
- Corowa Whisky & Chocolate Factory: Approx. 14km.
- Lake Moodemere: Approx. 12km.
- The Big Wine Bottle: (Rutherglen) Approx. 8km.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Rutherglen Caravan & Tourist Park: (Murray St, Rutherglen) Approx. 8km.
- Rivergum Holiday Park: (Corowa NSW) Approx. 11km.
Nearest Free Camps
- Police Paddocks: (River Murray Reserve – similar to Shaws Flat) Approx. 2km West.
- Granthams Bend Reserve: (Near Corowa) Approx. 15km East.
Nearest Dump Points
- Rutherglen Public Dump Point: 146 Main Street (Behind Visitor Centre) Approx. 8km.
- Corowa Dump Point: Rowers Park, Bridge Road (NSW side) Approx. 11km.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- Shell Indigo Fuels Rutherglen: (Main St) Approx. 8km.
- Mobil Corowa: (Honour Ave) Approx. 13km.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Rutherglen Visitor Information Centre: (Main St) Tap available. Approx. 8km.
- Corowa Rowers Park: (Near Dump Point) Approx. 11km.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Rutherglen Visitor Information Centre: (Main St) Approx. 8km.
- Lions Park Rutherglen: (Murray St) Approx. 8km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Rutherglen
- Summer (December – February): Hot and dry. Temperatures often exceed 30°C. Fire danger ratings must be monitored daily. Great for swimming.
- Autumn (March – May): Ideally mild. Warm days and cool nights. Perfect for camping and visiting wineries. Average highs 20°C – 25°C.
- Winter (June – August): Cold and often frosty mornings. Highs around 13°C – 15°C. River levels may be higher. Campfires are essential.
- Spring (September – November): Pleasant days, potential for rain. The bush is green and vibrant. Highs 18°C – 25°C.