Wills Bend Sandbar No. 2 is a tranquil bush camping area located within the Wills Bend precinct of the River Murray Reserve, just west of Echuca. Situated slightly downstream from the main “Wills Beach” (Sandbar No. 1), this site offers a more secluded atmosphere while still providing the magnificent river views and sandy access that make this area so popular. It is an ideal spot for campers who want to escape the larger groups often found at the main entry points and enjoy a quieter slice of the Murray.
The camping area is nestled amongst a dense forest of River Red Gums, which provide excellent shade and wind protection. The sites are dispersed and unallocated, allowing you to find a private nook either along the high bank or closer to the water. The sandbar here is perfect for swimming, fishing, or pulling up a kayak after a paddle down from Echuca. The gentle slope of the bank makes it accessible for families, while the surrounding bushland is teeming with birdlife, including kookaburras and parrots.
Like the rest of the Wills Bend precinct, Sandbar No. 2 is a free camping area managed by Parks Victoria. While there are drop toilets located within the wider reserve (often shared between the sandbars), facilities are minimal. Visitors should come prepared to be self-sufficient, bringing their own drinking water, showers, and power. This ensures the natural beauty of the site is preserved. Access is via O’Dwyer Road and then unsealed forest tracks; while generally suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry weather, the tracks can become slippery and difficult after rain, so a 4WD is recommended during wetter periods.
Located approximately 20 minutes from Echuca, Wills Bend Sandbar No. 2 offers the perfect balance of isolation and convenience. You are close enough to town to enjoy a meal at a local pub or visit the historic port, yet far enough away to feel completely immersed in nature. Whether you are setting up for a week of fishing for Golden Perch or just a weekend of relaxation by the fire, this spot is a hidden gem on the Murray.
Wills Bend Sandbar No. 2 (River Murray Reserve)
- Address: Unnamed Road (Access via O’Dwyer Rd), Wharparilla VIC 3564, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -36.05717, 144.62696
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River in Wharparilla, approximately 20km west of Echuca. It is located just south/downstream of Wills Sandbar No. 1.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents. Good for those seeking a bit more privacy than the main beach.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks via O’Dwyer Road. 2WD accessible in dry weather. Tracks are clay-based and can 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 (Limited Amenities)
- Toilets (Drop toilets available nearby in the Wills Bend precinct).
- 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
- Water: Bring all drinking and washing water.
- Rubbish Bags: You must take all waste with you.
- Toilet Paper: Supplies in the drop toilet may not be regular.
- 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 connecting the different sandbars.
- Swimming: Excellent. The sandbar provides easy entry for swimming. Be aware of river currents, submerged logs, and cold water temperatures.
Local Amenities (Echuca & Moama)
Local Pubs
- The American Hotel: (Heygarth St, Echuca) Approx. 20km East.
- The Echuca Hotel: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 20km East.
- The Caledonian Hotel: (Hare St, Echuca) Approx. 20km East.
Places to Eat
- Echuca Curry Club: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 20km East.
- Beechworth Bakery Echuca: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 20km East.
- Port 53: (Murray Esplanade, Echuca) Approx. 20km East.
Local Attractions
- Port of Echuca Discovery Centre: (Murray Esplanade) Approx. 20km East – Historic paddle steamers.
- Great Aussie Beer Shed: (Mary Ann Rd) Approx. 23km East.
- National Holden Motor Museum: (Warren St) Approx. 20km East.
- Echuca Wharf: (Riverfront) Approx. 20km East.
- Silo Art (Rochester/Colbinabbin): Day trip distance south.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Discovery Parks – Echuca: (Ogden St) Approx. 19km East.
- NRMA Echuca Holiday Park: (Crofton St) Approx. 20km East.
- Rich River Tourist Park: (Crescent St) Approx. 21km East.
Nearest Free Camps
- Wills Sandbar No. 1: (Adjacent/Upstream) Approx. 600m North.
- Casey Bend: (Upstream) Approx. 3km East.
- Pianta Road Camp Grounds: (Upstream) Approx. 5km East.
Nearest Dump Points
- Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St, near roundabout) Approx. 20km East.
- Moama Public Dump Point: (Meninya St) Approx. 23km East.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- United Petroleum Echuca: (Northern Hwy) Approx. 19km East.
- Caltex Woolworths Echuca: (Nish St) Approx. 20km East.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St) Tap available. Approx. 20km East.
- Lions Park (Moama): Tap available. Approx. 22km East.
Nearest Public Toilets
- On-site: Drop toilet available nearby in the reserve.
- Lions Park (Echuca Village): (Simmie Rd/Looker Rd) Approx. 16km East.
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.