Teachers Beach (Tocumwal Regional Park) – A Quiet Bend on the Mighty Murray River

Teachers Beach is a tranquil bush camping spot tucked away in the Tocumwal Regional Park on the Victorian banks of the Murray River. Situated roughly 5-6 kilometres downstream (west) from the Tocumwal bridge, this site is a favourite for those seeking a peaceful escape away from the busier main beaches like Apex and Town Beach. The area is characterised by its sandy river access, towering River Red Gums, and the sense of isolation it provides while still being relatively close to town amenities.

The camping area features dispersed, unallocated sites nestled amongst the forest and along the high riverbank. The river bend here creates deep pools and snags, making it a promising spot for fishing or launching a canoe to explore the quieter reaches of the Murray. The ground is a mix of compacted earth and leaf litter, providing a solid base for tents, camper trailers, and off-road caravans. The dense canopy of the Red Gum forest offers excellent shade during the heat of the day and shelter from the wind.

As a free bush camping site managed by Parks Victoria, Teachers Beach has no facilities. There are no toilets, showers, or tap water available. Visitors must be fully self-sufficient, bringing their own portable toilet, water, and power supplies. This “leave no trace” requirement helps maintain the pristine condition of the site. Access is via unsealed forest tracks off the Goulburn Valley Highway, which are generally accessible by 2WD in dry weather but can become slippery and boggy after rain, so driving to conditions is essential.

Despite its secluded feel, Teachers Beach is only a short 10-minute drive from the historic township of Tocumwal. You can easily head into town to visit the aviation museum, enjoy a meal at one of the local pubs, or restock supplies before returning to your quiet riverside retreat. Whether you are an angler looking for a secret spot, a birdwatcher seeking native species, or simply a camper wanting to relax by a fire under the stars, Teachers Beach offers a genuine and restorative Murray River experience.

Teachers Beach – VIC Location Map

Teachers Beach (Tocumwal Regional Park)

• Address: Unnamed Road (Access via Goulburn Valley Hwy), Tocumwal VIC 3644 (Vic side), Australia
• Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
• GPS Coordinates: -35.80276, 145.53421

Site Information

• Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River, approximately 5-6km west (downstream) of the Tocumwal bridge. It is located downstream from Davis Beach and Apex 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 sandy patches near the river.

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 bank/beach).
• 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/scarce).
• 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 Tocumwal Regional Park but must be kept under control to protect wildlife.
• Fishing: Excellent. The river bend here 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, connecting to other beaches like Davis Beach.
• Swimming: Possible from the riverbank. Always be aware of river currents, submerged logs, and cold water.

Local Amenities (Tocumwal & Surrounds)

Local Pubs

• Terminus Hotel: (Dean St, Tocumwal) Approx. 6km.
• Farmers Arms Hotel (Kelly’s Bistro): (Hennessy St, Tocumwal) Approx. 6km.
• Tattersalls Hotel: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 6km.

Places to Eat

• The Old Bank Lunch & Dinner: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 6km.
• Tocumwal Ice Creamery: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 6km.
• Tocumwal Bakery: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 6km.
• The Palms Pub: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 6km.

Local Attractions

• The Big Murray Cod: (Tocumwal Foreshore) Approx. 6km – Iconic Australian “Big Thing”.
• Tocumwal Aviation Museum: (Tocumwal Airport) Approx. 9km – Fascinating WWII history.
• Tocumwal Blowhole & The Rocks: (Tuppal Rd) Approx. 20km North.
• Cactus Country: (Strathmerton) Approx. 12km West.
• Chrystie’s Museum: (Tocumwal) Approx. 8km – Vintage cars and collectibles.

Nearest Caravan Parks

• Boomerang Way Tourist Park: (Murray St, Tocumwal) Approx. 7km.
• Tocumwal Tourist Park: (Bruton St, Tocumwal) Approx. 6.5km.
• Cobram Oasis Caravan Park: (Koonoomoo Rd) Approx. 10km West.

Nearest Free Camps

• Davis Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 1km East.
• Apex Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 2km East.
• Town Beach (Tocumwal): (NSW Side) Approx. 7km.

Nearest Dump Points

• Tocumwal Town Beach (NSW Side): (Deniliquin St) Approx. 7km.
• Barooga Recreation Reserve: (Barooga) Approx. 22km.

Nearest Petrol Stations

• Shell Tocumwal: (Dean St) Approx. 6km.
• BP Tocumwal: (Murray St) Approx. 7km.
• United Petroleum Tocumwal: (Newell Hwy) Approx. 8km.

Nearest Drinking Water Resupply

• Tocumwal Foreshore: (Deniliquin St) Taps available. Approx. 6km.
• Apex Park (Tocumwal): Approx. 6km.

Nearest Public Toilets

• Tocumwal Foreshore: (Deniliquin St) Approx. 6km.
• Apex Park (Tocumwal): Approx. 6km.

Seasonal Weather Forecast for Tocumwal

• Summer (December – February): Hot and dry. Average highs 31°C – 34°C. The river is essential for cooling off.
• Autumn (March – May): Mild and sunny. Warm days (22°C – 28°C) and cooler nights. Perfect for bush 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 20°C – 27°C. The area is vibrant and green.