Studs Beach is a secluded bush camping spot located on the Victorian banks of the Murray River in Echuca Village. Nestled within the Echuca Regional Park, this site offers a peaceful alternative to the more popular and often crowded Christies Beach nearby. It is a favourite haunt for locals and seasoned campers who appreciate the serenity of the river without the hustle and bustle. The area is defined by its sloping riverbanks, towering River Red Gums, and direct access to the water, making it perfect for a relaxing weekend away.
The camping area features dispersed sites that are tucked away amongst the trees. Unlike the wide-open sandbars of some other beaches, Studs Beach offers a more intimate forest setting with plenty of shade. The ground is a mix of compacted earth and leaf litter, suitable for swags, tents, and off-road caravans. The river here flows gently, creating opportunities for fishing, launching a kayak, or simply sitting by the water’s edge and watching the paddle steamers cruise past.
As a free bush camping site, there are no facilities directly at Studs Beach. Campers must be completely self-sufficient, bringing their own toilet, shower, water, and power. However, for those who need it, public toilets are available just a short drive away at the nearby Camo Crew Beach or Christies Beach. Access is via unsealed forest tracks (off Simmie Road) which are generally navigable by 2WD vehicles in dry weather, but can become slippery and boggy after rain, so driving to conditions is essential.
Despite its secluded feel, Studs Beach is only a 15-minute drive from the heart of Echuca. You can easily head into town to explore the historic port, enjoy a meal at a classic pub, or restock supplies before returning to your quiet riverside retreat. Whether you are an angler chasing Murray Cod or a family looking for a quiet spot to camp under the stars, Studs Beach offers a genuine and relaxing Murray River experience.
Studs beach – VIC Location Map
Studs Beach (Echuca Regional Park)
- Address: Unnamed Road (Access via Simmie Rd), Echuca Village VIC 3564, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -36.10978, 144.8164
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River in Echuca Village, approximately 12km east of the Echuca town centre. It is located near Camo Crew Beach.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans (off-road preferred), camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks. 2WD accessible in dry weather only. Tracks are clay-based and become slippery/boggy when wet. 4WD recommended if rain is forecast.
- Site Surface: Natural bush floor, dirt, leaf litter, and grassy patches.
Available Facilities
- Bush Camping (No Amenities)
- No Toilets (You must bring a portable toilet). Note: Nearest toilets are at Camo Crew Beach (approx. 1km 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 Echuca Regional Park but must be kept under control.
- Fishing: Excellent. The river here holds Murray Cod, Golden Perch, and Carp. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
- Short Walks: Walking tracks wind through the Red Gum forest, connecting to other nearby beaches like Christies Beach.
- Swimming: Possible from the riverbank. Always be aware of river currents, submerged logs, and cold water.
Local Amenities (Echuca & Moama)
Local Pubs
- The American Hotel: (Heygarth St, Echuca) Approx. 12km West.
- The Echuca Hotel: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 12km West.
- The Caledonian Hotel: (Hare St, Echuca) Approx. 12km West.
Places to Eat
- Echuca Curry Club: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 12km West.
- Beechworth Bakery Echuca: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 12km West.
- Port 53: (Murray Esplanade, Echuca) Approx. 12km West.
- Monkee & Co: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 12km West.
Local Attractions
- Port of Echuca Discovery Centre: (Murray Esplanade) Approx. 12km West – Historic paddle steamers.
- Great Aussie Beer Shed: (Mary Ann Rd) Approx. 15km West.
- National Holden Motor Museum: (Warren St) Approx. 12km West.
- Echuca Wharf: (Riverfront) Approx. 12km West.
- Silo Art (Rochester/Colbinabbin): Day trip distance south.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Discovery Parks – Echuca: (Ogden St) Approx. 11km West.
- NRMA Echuca Holiday Park: (Crofton St) Approx. 12km West.
- Rich River Tourist Park: (Crescent St) Approx. 13km West.
Nearest Free Camps
- Camo Crew Beach: (Adjacent/Upstream) Approx. 1km East.
- Christies Beach: (Downstream) Approx. 1km West.
- Betts Beach: (Downstream) Approx. 2km West.
Nearest Dump Points
- Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St, near roundabout) Approx. 12km West.
- Moama Public Dump Point: (Meninya St) Approx. 15km West.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- United Petroleum Echuca: (Northern Hwy) Approx. 11km West.
- Caltex Woolworths Echuca: (Nish St) Approx. 12km West.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St) Tap available. Approx. 12km West.
- Lions Park (Moama): Tap available. Approx. 14km West.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Camo Crew Beach: (Upstream) Drop toilet available approx. 1km away.
- Lions Park (Echuca Village): (Simmie Rd/Looker Rd) Approx. 8km West.
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.