Wills Sandbar (Wills Bend) – A Stunning Sandy Retreat on the Murray River

Wills Sandbar, widely known as Wills Bend, is a premier free camping destination located in the Wharparilla precinct of the River Murray Reserve, approximately 19 kilometres west of Echuca. This site is celebrated for its magnificent, expansive sandbars that stretch out into a wide bend of the Murray River, creating a picturesque setting that is perfect for beach lovers and water enthusiasts. It offers a classic Australian bush camping experience with the added luxury of direct access to some of the finest sandy beaches in the region.

The camping area is set within a majestic forest of River Red Gums, providing a mix of shaded and open sites. The dispersed nature of the campground means there are no marked bays, allowing you to choose a spot that best suits your needs—whether you want to be right on the high bank overlooking the river or tucked away in a quiet glade. The ground is generally flat and firm, making it suitable for a wide range of setups, from swags and tents to caravans and camper trailers. The sandy beaches are a major drawcard, providing a safe and easy entry point for swimming, launching kayaks, or simply relaxing by the water with a cold drink.

One of the key features that sets Wills Sandbar apart from many other bush camps is the presence of drop toilets. This basic amenity adds a level of convenience that makes it a popular choice for families and those planning longer stays. However, there is no drinking water, showers, or power available, so visitors must still come prepared to be self-sufficient. The “leave no trace” principle is vital here to preserve the pristine condition of the riverbank and forest.

Access to Wills Sandbar is via O’Dwyer Road, which leads to unsealed forest tracks. These tracks are generally accessible by 2WD vehicles in dry weather, but like most river access roads, they can become slippery and boggy after heavy rain. Being just a short 15-20 minute drive from Echuca, you have easy access to the town’s historic port, supermarkets, and dining options, allowing you to enjoy a remote bush experience without being too far from civilisation. Whether you are casting a line for a Murray Cod, enjoying a sunset campfire, or watching the paddle steamers drift by, Wills Sandbar offers an unforgettable slice of the Murray River.

Wills Sandbar – VIC Location Map

Wills Sandbar (Wills Bend)

• Address: Unnamed Road (Access via O’Dwyer Rd), Wharparilla VIC 3564, Australia
• Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
• GPS Coordinates: -36.04859, 144.63302

Site Information

• Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River in Wharparilla, approximately 19km west of Echuca. It is located downstream from Casey Bend and Pianta Road.
• Site Suitable For: Caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents. There is plenty of room for large groups.
• 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 large sandy beach areas.

Available Facilities

• Bush Camping with Toilets
• Toilets (Drop toilets available on-site).
• No Showers.
• No Drinking Water.
• No Rubbish Bins (Carry in, Carry out).
• River Access (Excellent sandy beaches).
• 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 follow the riverbank through the Red Gum forest.
• Swimming: Excellent. The large sandbars provide 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. 19km East.
• The Echuca Hotel: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 19km East.
• The Caledonian Hotel: (Hare St, Echuca) Approx. 19km East.

Places to Eat

• Echuca Curry Club: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 19km East.
• Beechworth Bakery Echuca: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 19km East.
• Port 53: (Murray Esplanade, Echuca) Approx. 19km East.

Local Attractions

• Port of Echuca Discovery Centre: (Murray Esplanade) Approx. 19km East – Historic paddle steamers.
• Great Aussie Beer Shed: (Mary Ann Rd) Approx. 22km East.
• National Holden Motor Museum: (Warren St) Approx. 19km East.
• Echuca Wharf: (Riverfront) Approx. 19km East.
• Silo Art (Rochester/Colbinabbin): Day trip distance south.

Nearest Caravan Parks

• Discovery Parks – Echuca: (Ogden St) Approx. 18km East.
• NRMA Echuca Holiday Park: (Crofton St) Approx. 19km East.
• Rich River Tourist Park: (Crescent St) Approx. 20km East.

Nearest Free Camps

• Pianta Road Camp Grounds: (Upstream) Approx. 4km East.
• Casey Bend: (Upstream) Approx. 2km East.
• Christies Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 15km East.

Nearest Dump Points

• Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St, near roundabout) Approx. 19km East.
• Moama Public Dump Point: (Meninya St) Approx. 22km East.

Nearest Petrol Stations

• United Petroleum Echuca: (Northern Hwy) Approx. 18km East.
• Caltex Woolworths Echuca: (Nish St) Approx. 19km East.

Nearest Drinking Water Resupply

• Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St) Tap available. Approx. 19km East.
• Lions Park (Moama): Tap available. Approx. 21km East.

Nearest Public Toilets

• On-site: Drop toilet available.
• Lions Park (Echuca Village): (Simmie Rd/Looker Rd) Approx. 15km 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.