Richardsons Bend Campground | Free Camping on the Murray River

Nestled on a serene bend of the mighty Murray River, Richardsons Bend Campground offers travellers a tranquil and spacious free camping experience in northern Victoria. This popular spot, located just a short drive from nearby towns, provides the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in a classic Australian bush setting without sacrificing convenience. The campground is particularly well-suited for those in self-contained caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs, with ample room to find a private, level spot amongst the shade of the towering gum trees. The gentle sounds of the river flowing and the chorus of native birdlife, including kookaburras and cockatoos, create a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere from sunrise to sunset.

Access to the campground is straightforward via a well-maintained gravel road, making it suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry conditions. Upon arrival, you’ll discover numerous campsites spread out along the riverbank, many offering direct access to the water. This makes it an ideal location for fishing enthusiasts hoping to catch a Murray Cod or for those simply wanting to launch a kayak and explore the waterway. While the facilities are basic, they are well-maintained, with public toilets and rubbish bins provided for campers’ convenience. It’s a place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle, enjoy a campfire in the designated season, and appreciate the simple pleasures of the great outdoors. Whether you’re planning a short overnight stay or staying for the maximum permitted time, Richardsons Bend delivers an authentic and memorable Aussie free camping adventure.

Site Details & Facilities

• Site Suitable For: Caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, big rigs.
• Road Access: Good quality gravel road, 2WD accessible in dry conditions.
• Site Surface: Dirt and grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 14 days.
• Facilities: Basic amenities suitable for self-contained campers.
• Potable Water: No, bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited, Telstra has some patchy coverage.
• TV Reception: Possible with a good antenna.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, non-flushing toilets available.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, but please take out what you bring in if possible.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fire pits, subject to seasonal fire restrictions. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, please be considerate of neighbours regarding noise and hours of use.
• Number of Sites Available: Numerous unmarked sites, approximately 30+.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, firewood, insect repellent, sun protection.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and under control.
• Fishing: Yes, excellent fishing in the Murray River. A Victorian fishing licence is required.
• Short Walks: Yes, pleasant walking tracks along the riverbank.

Nearby Services & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Byramine Homestead & Brewery: ~15 km
  • The Corowa Hotel (NSW): ~25 km
  • Royal Hotel Yarrawonga: ~27 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Various cafes and restaurants in Yarrawonga: ~27 km
  • Various cafes and bakeries in Corowa (NSW): ~25 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Byramine Homestead (Historic Homestead, Brewery & Cidery): ~15 km
  • Lake Mulwala (Boating & Watersports): ~27 km
  • Rutherglen Wine Region: ~40 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Yarrawonga-Mulwala has numerous caravan parks: starting from ~25 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Forges Beach No. 1 Campground: ~35 km
  • Kyffins Reserve Campground: ~30 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Yarrawonga Showgrounds (Public Dump Point): ~27 km
  • Corowa Showgrounds (Public Dump Point): ~25 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Yarrawonga or Cobram: ~27-30 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Visitor Information Centres in Yarrawonga or Cobram often have taps.
• Nearest Public Toilets:
  • Onsite at the campground.
  • Public toilet blocks in Yarrawonga and Corowa town centres.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 32°C. Days can often exceed 35°C. High risk of bushfires.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild and pleasant with sunny days and cooler nights. Average temperatures range from 8°C to 24°C. Ideal camping weather.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often overcast, with frosty mornings. Average temperatures range from 3°C to 15°C. Higher chance of rain.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild with warming days, becoming progressively sunnier. Average temperatures range from 7°C to 22°C. A beautiful time to visit as the landscape becomes green.