Kismet Campground | Free Camping on the Murray River, Rutherglen VIC

For those who prefer their Murray River camping experience to be more on the rustic and quiet side, Kismet Campground is an excellent choice. Situated further downstream from the often-bustling Granthams Bend, Kismet offers a more secluded and back-to-basics atmosphere. This is a true bush camp for the self-sufficient traveller. Spread out along the riverbank under the shade of towering gum trees, this large area provides ample space to find a peaceful spot away from others. The campground is accessible to all types of vehicles in dry weather, from tents and swags right up to large caravans, but caution is advised on the dirt access tracks after rain.

The appeal of Kismet lies in its simplicity. With no facilities on site—no toilets, no bins, no taps—it is a place for campers who come fully prepared to be self-contained and practice strict leave-no-trace principles. Your reward is a tranquil environment where you can truly connect with the natural beauty of the Murray. The river is the centerpiece of life at Kismet, offering fantastic opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. It’s the perfect spot to launch a small boat or simply sit back and watch the incredible birdlife. Despite its secluded feel, Kismet is conveniently close to the attractions of the Rutherglen wine region. You are only a short drive from world-class wineries, farm gates, and the charming historical towns of Rutherglen and Corowa, where you can stock up on supplies or enjoy a meal. This blend of peaceful isolation and nearby convenience makes Kismet Campground a hidden gem for discerning campers.

Kismet Campground

• Address: Kismet Road, Rutherglen, VIC 3685, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -35.978872, 146.583715
• Website: Not officially available (Managed by Parks Victoria)

Campsite Information

• Location: On the Murray River, downstream from Lake Moodemere, near Rutherglen.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and motorhomes.
• Road Access: Dirt road, 2WD accessible in dry weather. Can become impassable for some vehicles after heavy rain.
• Site Surface: Dirt and natural bush floor.
• Camping Permitted: Yes.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit, check with local authorities for long stays.
• Facilities: None. This is a primitive bush camp. You must be fully self-contained.
• Potable Water: No, bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Generally good with Telstra, can be patchy with other providers.
• TV Reception: Possible with a good antenna.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No.
• Rubbish Bins: No, this is a carry-in, carry-out site. Please take all your rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in your own fire pit, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. Do not light fires on the ground.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of the quiet nature of the site and your neighbours.
• Number of Sites Available: Many undefined sites in a large area.
• Essentials to Bring: Portaloo, drinking water, firewood, rubbish bags, insect repellent, shovel.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted but must be kept on a leash and under control.
• Fishing: Yes, great fishing for Murray Cod, Golden Perch and carp (Victorian fishing licence required).
• Short Walks: Yes, extensive informal tracks along the river.

Local Amenities

• Local Pubs:
  • Poachers Paradise Hotel (Rutherglen): Approx. 8 km
  • Corowa Hotel (NSW): Approx. 15 km
  • Royal Hotel (Corowa, NSW): Approx. 15 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Rutherglen has acclaimed restaurants, cafes, and a famous bakery: Approx. 8 km
  • Corowa has a wide range of pubs, cafes, and restaurants: Approx. 15 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Rutherglen Wine Region Cellar Doors: Starting from approx. 5 km
  • Corowa Whisky and Chocolate Factory: Approx. 14 km
  • Pfeiffer Wines (Wahgunyah): Approx. 20 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Rutherglen Caravan Park: Approx. 8 km
  • Rivergum Holiday Park (Corowa): Approx. 16 km
  • Ball Park Caravan Park (Corowa): Approx. 15 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Stantons Bend: Approx. 20 km
  • Granthams Bend: Approx. 22 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Rutherglen Showgrounds: Public dump point. Approx. 8 km
  • Corowa Showgrounds: Public dump point. Approx. 15 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Rutherglen: Multiple stations. Approx. 8 km
  • Corowa: Multiple major service stations. Approx. 15 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Rutherglen: Visitor Information Centre. Approx. 8 km
  • Corowa: Information Centre / Public Parks. Approx. 15 km
• Public Toilets (Township):
  • Rutherglen: Approx. 8 km
  • Corowa: Approx. 15 km

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The region is characterised by hot and dry summers, ideal for river activities but with a high risk of bushfires and snakes. Autumn provides beautiful, mild weather, making it a perfect time for camping and winery tours. Winters are cold, with frosty mornings and cool but often sunny days. Spring is mild and pleasant as the landscape becomes green. Always check local fire restrictions before lighting a fire, especially during summer.