Koondrook State Forest: Free, Pet-Friendly Camping on the Murray River

Experience the timeless beauty of the Murray River with a stay in the Koondrook State Forest, a premier destination for free, dispersed bush camping. Located on the Victorian side of the river, this vast forest of majestic River Red Gums offers an authentic and tranquil escape for self-sufficient travellers. Camping here is about finding your own perfect spot along the riverbank, where you can set up camp and immerse yourself in the serene natural environment. It’s a paradise for anglers, kayakers, and nature lovers, with the gentle sounds of the river and the chorus of native birdlife as your daily soundtrack. The freedom to choose your own secluded campsite makes it a popular choice for those looking to get away from the crowds and enjoy a genuine connection with the Australian bush.

As a State Forest, camping is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure. This is a true bush camp, so you must be completely self-contained and prepared to leave no trace. There are no facilities such as toilets, showers, or bins, so campers must bring their own portable toilet and take all rubbish home. Access is via a network of unsealed tracks, which are generally suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry weather, though a 4WD is recommended to explore further and access more remote sites, especially after rain. The nearby twin towns of Koondrook (VIC) and Barham (NSW) are just a short drive away, providing easy access to supplies, classic country pubs, and a welcoming community. For a peaceful, budget-friendly, and pet-friendly riverside getaway, the Koondrook State Forest is an unbeatable choice.

Campground Information

• Name: Koondrook State Forest
• Address: Koondrook, Victoria 3580, Australia
• GPS Coordinates: -35.64645681533823, 144.1483099919479
• Website: Managed by Forest Fire Management Victoria.

Features & Rules

• Location: Dispersed bush camping along the Murray River in a River Red Gum forest.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, and off-road caravans.
• Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks. 2WD accessible in dry weather, 4WD recommended.
• Site Surface: Natural earth and leaf litter.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free dispersed camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Up to 28 days.
• Facilities: None. This is a completely self-sufficient campsite.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy, Telstra generally has the best reception near the town.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. A portable toilet is essential.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted, subject to seasonal fire bans. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Numerous undesignated, unpowered sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, portable toilet, firewood, rubbish bags, and insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted on a leash in State Forests.
• Fishing: Excellent fishing for Murray Cod, Golden Perch, and other species in the Murray River.
• Short Walks: Informal walks along the river and through the forest.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Mates Royal Hotel (Koondrook) – distances vary, approx. 5-10 km
  • Barham Hotel (Barham, NSW) – distances vary, approx. 6-11 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Koondrook General Store & Cafe – approx. 5-10 km
  • Various cafes and restaurants in Barham, NSW – approx. 6-11 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Koondrook Wharf & Waterfront
  • Gunbower Island State Forest
  • Barham Bridge

Nearby Parks & Services

• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Koondrook Caravan Park – approx. 5-10 km
  • Barham Caravan & Tourist Park (NSW) – approx. 6-11 km
• Nearest Alternate Free Camps:
  • Guttrum State Forest – adjacent to Koondrook State Forest
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Koondrook Public Dump Point (62 Penglase Street) – approx. 5-10 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Koondrook or Barham – approx. 5-10 km.
• Nearest Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps in Koondrook (opposite dump point).
• Nearest Public Toilets: Koondrook township, near the wharf.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry, perfect for water activities. Average maximum temperatures are around 31°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, sunny days and milder nights. Ideal for fishing and exploring. Average maximums range from 18°C to 28°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool days and cold nights, often with clear skies. Average maximums are around 14°C to 16°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and becoming warmer, with pleasant conditions for camping. Average maximums range from 19°C to 27°C.