Whites Beach Number 1 is a peaceful and lesser-known bush camping spot located on the Victorian banks of the Murray River in the Koonoomoo area. Situated between the popular Bouchiers Beach and Pebble Beach, this site offers a secluded retreat for campers who prefer to avoid the crowds. The area is defined by its sandy river access, towering River Red Gums, and the tranquil flow of the Murray, making it an ideal location for those seeking a quiet weekend away in nature.
The camping area features dispersed, unallocated sites that are nestled amongst the trees and along the riverbank. Unlike the massive open areas of some nearby beaches, Whites Beach offers a more intimate setting with plenty of shaded spots perfect for setting up a swag, tent, or camper trailer. The river here is generally calm, providing excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, or simply sitting by the water’s edge and watching the birdlife. It is a fantastic spot for self-sufficient travellers who enjoy the solitude of the bush.
As a free dispersed camping area within the River Murray Reserve (managed by Parks Victoria), there are no facilities on-site. This means no toilets, showers, or tap water. Visitors must be completely self-sufficient, bringing their own portable toilet, water, and power supplies. This “leave no trace” approach helps preserve the natural beauty of the riverbank and ensures it remains a pristine environment for future visitors. Access is via unsealed forest tracks off the Goulburn Valley Highway, which are generally suitable for 2WD in dry weather but can become slippery and boggy after rain.
Despite its secluded feel, Whites Beach Number 1 is conveniently located just a short drive from the amenities of Tocumwal and Cobram. You are less than 10 minutes away from the famous Big Strawberry in Koonoomoo, where you can enjoy pancakes and fresh produce, or a quick trip across the bridge to Tocumwal for a pub meal and supplies. Whether you are an angler chasing Murray Cod or a family looking for a quiet river bend to explore, Whites Beach offers a genuine and relaxing Murray River camping experience.
Whites Beach Number 1 – VIC Location Map
Whites Beach Number 1 (Whites Beach / River Murray Reserve)
- Address: Unnamed Road (Access via Goulburn Valley Hwy & Forest Tracks), Koonoomoo VIC 3644, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -35.82708, 145.56743
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River in Koonoomoo, approximately 8km west of Tocumwal and 5km east of the Big Strawberry. It is located near Bouchiers Beach.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans (including off-road), camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents. Sites are dispersed.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks. 2WD accessible in dry weather only. The clay tracks become extremely slippery and boggy when wet; 4WD is 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 beach/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 (collecting 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 generally permitted in this section of the River Murray Reserve but must be kept under control to protect wildlife.
- Fishing: Excellent. The river here features good structure for Murray Cod and Golden Perch. Bank fishing is popular. Victorian Fishing Licence required.
- Short Walks: Forest tracks connect Whites Beach to neighbouring spots like Bouchiers Beach, offering lovely river walks.
- Swimming: The sandy beach provides good access for swimming. Be aware of currents, snags, and submerged logs.
Local Amenities (Tocumwal & Koonoomoo)
Local Pubs
- Terminus Hotel: (Dean St, Tocumwal) Approx. 8km East.
- Farmers Arms Hotel: (Hennessy St, Tocumwal) Approx. 8km East.
- Tattersalls Hotel: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 8km East.
Places to Eat
- The Big Strawberry Cafe: (Goulburn Valley Hwy) Approx. 5km West – Pancakes and lunch.
- Koonoomoo General Store: (Goulburn Valley Hwy) Approx. 6km West – Takeaway and supplies.
- The Old Bank Lunch & Dinner: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 8km East.
- Tocumwal Ice Creamery: (Deniliquin St, Tocumwal) Approx. 8km East.
Local Attractions
- The Big Strawberry: (Koonoomoo) Approx. 5km West – Iconic attraction.
- The Big Murray Cod: (Tocumwal Foreshore) Approx. 8km East.
- Tocumwal Aviation Museum: (Tocumwal Airport) Approx. 11km East.
- Tocumwal Blowhole: (Tuppal Rd) Approx. 22km North.
- Cactus Country: (Strathmerton) Approx. 15km West.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Boomerang Way Tourist Park: (Murray St, Tocumwal) Approx. 7km East.
- Tocumwal Tourist Park: (Bruton St, Tocumwal) Approx. 8km East.
- Cobram Oasis Caravan Park: (Koonoomoo Rd) Approx. 8km West.
Nearest Free Camps
- Bouchiers Beach: (Adjacent) Approx. 1km West.
- Pebble Beach: (Adjacent) Approx. 1km East.
- Town Beach (Tocumwal): (NSW Side) Approx. 8km East.
Nearest Dump Points
- Tocumwal Town Beach (NSW Side): (Deniliquin St) Approx. 8km.
- Cobram Public Dump Point: (Federation Park) Approx. 18km.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- United Petroleum Tocumwal: (Newell Hwy) Approx. 8km.
- Shell Tocumwal: (Dean St) Approx. 8km.
- Mobil Cobram: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 18km.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Tocumwal Foreshore: (Deniliquin St) Taps available. Approx. 8km.
- Apex Park (Tocumwal): Approx. 8km.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Tocumwal Foreshore: (Deniliquin St) Approx. 8km.
- The Big Strawberry: (For patrons) Approx. 5km.
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 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.