Turner Bend is a peaceful dispersed bush camping area situated on the banks of the Murray River in Torrumbarry, Victoria. Located just a few kilometres downstream from the historic Torrumbarry Weir, this site offers a classic river camping experience surrounded by majestic River Red Gums and native bushland. It is a popular spot for self-sufficient campers who enjoy fishing, boating, and relaxing by the water away from the busier tourist parks.
The camping area features informal, unallocated sites spread along the riverbank and into the forest. The ground is generally flat and firm, making it suitable for caravans, camper trailers, and tents. The river here is wide and often calm, providing excellent opportunities for launching a tinny or kayak to explore the snags and backwaters. The shade from the gum trees offers relief during the warmer months, and the area is known for its abundant birdlife, including kookaburras and parrots.
As a free site within the River Murray Reserve (managed by Parks Victoria), there are no facilities at Turner Bend. 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 maintain the pristine condition of the riverbank. Access is via Headworks Road and unsealed forest tracks, which are generally accessible by 2WD in dry weather but can become slippery and boggy after rain.
Despite its secluded feel, Turner Bend is conveniently located near the Torrumbarry Weir, where you can visit the interpretive centre, walk across the weir wall, or use the boat ramp. The Torrumbarry Roadhouse is also nearby for fuel and basic supplies. Whether you are chasing a Murray Cod, exploring the river by boat, or simply enjoying a quiet campfire under the stars, Turner Bend offers a relaxing and authentic Murray River escape.
Turner Bend – VIC Location Map
Turner Bend (River Murray Reserve)
- Address: Unnamed Road (Access via Headworks Rd), Torrumbarry VIC 3562, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -35.98181, 144.51553
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River in Torrumbarry, approximately 5km west of the Torrumbarry Weir. Access is via Headworks Road.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents. Large rigs can generally access the area, but check track conditions.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks. 2WD accessible in dry weather. 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).
- No Showers.
- No Drinking Water.
- No Rubbish Bins (Carry in, Carry out).
- River Access (Bank fishing/boat launching from bank).
- 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: Yes, dogs are permitted in the River Murray Reserve but must be kept under control to protect wildlife.
- 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 along the riverbank.
- Swimming: Possible from the riverbank. Always be aware of river currents, submerged logs, and cold water temperatures.
Local Amenities (Torrumbarry & Echuca)
Local Pubs
- Torrumbarry Hotel (The Torry Pub): (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 10km South.
- Gunbower Hotel: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 20km West.
- The American Hotel: (Echuca) Approx. 35km East.
Places to Eat
- Torrumbarry Roadhouse: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 8km South – Takeaway and supplies.
- Gunbower Hotel Bistro: (Gunbower) Approx. 20km West.
- Various Cafes: (Echuca) Approx. 35km East.
Local Attractions
- Torrumbarry Weir: (Weir Rd) Approx. 5km East – Interpretive centre, weir wall walk, and lawns.
- Gunbower National Park: (Nearby) – Extensive wetlands and forest drives.
- Port of Echuca: (Echuca) Approx. 35km East – Historic paddle steamers.
- Great Aussie Beer Shed: (Echuca) Approx. 30km East.
- National Holden Motor Museum: (Echuca) Approx. 35km East.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Torrumbarry Weir Holiday Park: (Weir Rd) Approx. 5km East.
- All The Rivers Run Caravan Park: (Headworks Rd) Approx. 2km East.
- Gunbower Caravan Park: (Gunbower) Approx. 20km West.
Nearest Free Camps
- Kempters Toe: (Adjacent/Upstream) Approx. 1km East.
- Murray River Torrumbarry (Fulham Rd): (Downstream) Approx. 5km West.
- Arnold Bend: (Downstream) Approx. 8km West.
Nearest Dump Points
- Torrumbarry Weir Holiday Park: (Weir Rd) Approx. 5km East (Check access/fees).
- Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St) Approx. 35km East.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- BP Torrumbarry Roadhouse: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 8km South.
- United Petroleum Echuca: (Northern Hwy) Approx. 32km East.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Torrumbarry Weir Holiday Park: Taps available (Check with management). Approx. 5km.
- Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St) Tap available. Approx. 35km.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Torrumbarry Weir: Public toilets at the weir visitor area. Approx. 5km.
- Torrumbarry Roadhouse: (For patrons) Approx. 8km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Torrumbarry
- Summer (December – February): Hot and dry. Average highs 30°C – 34°C. The river provides essential cooling.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild and sunny. Warm days (22°C – 28°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.