The Walwa Camping Reserve is a true icon of the Australian free camping scene, widely celebrated as one of the best and most beloved community-run campgrounds in the country. This magnificent reserve is nestled on the stunning upper reaches of the Murray River, offering a paradise for families, anglers, boaties, and travellers exploring the foothills of the High Country. Maintained with incredible pride by the local community, the campground provides a vast, beautifully manicured grassy expanse that stretches along the riverbank, offering an abundance of spectacular sites. It’s perfectly suited to all setups, from the largest motorhomes and big rigs to tents, with everyone able to find a prime spot with incredible river and mountain views. The atmosphere is famously friendly, safe, and welcoming, and is renowned for the resident cows that often wander peacefully through the grounds, adding to its unique country charm.
What makes Walwa legendary are its outstanding facilities, which are truly exceptional for a donation-based camp. Travellers are treated to meticulously clean flushing toilets, hot showers, a public dump point, and potable water. This level of comfort makes it the perfect place to stop, refresh, and recharge. The majestic Murray River is the star attraction, offering a natural playground for all ages. A boat ramp provides easy access for fishing boats and water skiers, and the river is a premier destination for targeting the legendary Murray Cod and Trout. The campground’s location is a huge drawcard, serving as the perfect gateway to the Great River Road scenic drive and the rugged beauty of the nearby Burrowa-Pine Mountain National Park. For an unbeatable camping experience that combines top-tier facilities, a world-class location, and incredible community spirit, the Walwa Camping Reserve is an essential Australian destination.
Walwa Camping Reserve – VIC Location Map
Walwa Camping Reserve with Cows
- Address: Walwa VIC 3709
- GPS: -35.943438, 147.672833
Site Details
- Location: Riverside reserve on the edge of Walwa township.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, Camper Trailers, Tents.
- Road Access: Sealed road.
- Site Surface: Mostly grass, very well maintained.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping (donations are essential for upkeep).
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Please observe local signage; a 14-day limit is often in place.
- Facilities: Flushing toilets, hot showers (donation), dump point, potable water, playground, boat ramp.
- Potable Water: Yes, available.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra, patchy for other carriers.
- TV Reception: Good digital TV reception.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes.
- Open Fires: Permitted in contained fire pits, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. BYO firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of other campers.
- Number of Sites Available: Very large, unmarked area with room for hundreds of campers.
- Essentials to Bring: Donation money for the honesty box, fishing gear, boat/kayak.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a lead.
Activities
- Fishing: Premier location for Murray Cod and Trout.
- Short Walks: Enjoy leisurely walks along the Murray River and through the historic Walwa township.
- Boating & Water Skiing: The boat ramp provides excellent access to a wide, deep section of the Murray.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- The Walwa Hotel – Approx. 1 km
- Jingellic Pub (Jingellic, NSW) – Approx. 20 km
- Tintaldra Hotel – Approx. 25 km
- Places to Eat:
- The Walwa Hotel (Bistro) – Approx. 1 km
- Walwa General Store / Cafe – Approx. 1 km
- Local Attractions:
- The Murray River – You are on it!
- Burrowa-Pine Mountain National Park – Approx. 30 km
- Great River Road scenic drive
- Historic Tintaldra Bridge – Approx. 25 km
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Tintaldra Hotel & Caravan Park – Approx. 25 km
- Colac Colac Caravan Park (near Corryong) – Approx. 50 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Jingellic Showgrounds (NSW) – Approx. 20 km
- Numerous other Murray River reserves.
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Located onsite at the Walwa Recreation Reserve.
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Walwa – Approx. 1 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Available onsite.
- Public Toilets:
- Available onsite.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and sunny, perfect for water sports, with average temperatures of 15-31°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, sunny days and cool nights, the peak season for autumn colours. Averaging 8-24°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and crisp with frosty mornings and often clear days, great for campfires. Averaging 2-13°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild to warm and pleasant, a beautiful time to see the high country come to life, averaging 6-22°C.