Richardsons Bend: Prime Murray River Camping near Wine Country

Nestled on a sweeping bend of the mighty Murray River, Richardsons Bend Campground offers one of the best free camping experiences in northern Victoria. This large, open, and easily accessible site is a firm favourite among travellers, particularly those with caravans and big rigs. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and prime location. The campground is a spacious, relatively flat area dotted with large gum trees that provide welcome shade, just a stone’s throw from the riverbank. This proximity to the water makes it an ideal spot for fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing and watching the paddle steamers and houseboats drift by. The easy-going atmosphere and ample space mean you can usually find a private spot to call your own, even during busier periods.

What truly elevates Richardsons Bend is its strategic position. While feeling pleasantly secluded, it’s only a short drive from the twin towns of Wahgunyah (Victoria) and Corowa (NSW), meaning supplies, pubs, and cafes are never far away. More importantly, it sits on the doorstep of the world-renowned Rutherglen wine region. Campers can spend their days exploring historic cellar doors and gourmet local producers before returning to a peaceful campsite by the river in the evening. This blend of rustic riverside charm and convenient access to tourist amenities is a rare find. With no facilities on site, campers must be completely self-contained, but for those equipped to do so, Richardsons Bend provides the perfect, cost-effective base for exploring one of Australia’s premier food and wine destinations.

Site Details & Features

• Location: On the Victorian side of the Murray River, near Wahgunyah.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, swags, camper trailers, caravans, and big rigs.
• Road Access: Good quality unsealed road, easily accessible by 2WD vehicles.
• Site Surface: Dirt and grass, mostly flat.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit, but long-term stays are discouraged.
• Facilities: None. You must be fully self-contained.
• Potable Water: No. Bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Generally good coverage with Telstra. Other carriers may be patchy.
• TV Reception: Possible with a good antenna.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. A portable toilet is required.
• Rubbish Bins: No. A strict carry-in, carry-out policy applies.
• Open Fires: Permitted, subject to local fire restrictions. Use existing fire pits where possible.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of neighbours.
• Number of Sites Available: Very large area with dozens of informal sites.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, portable toilet, rubbish bags, firewood.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted but must be kept under control.

Local Activities & Amenities

• Fishing: Excellent fishing for Murray Cod, Golden Perch (Yellowbelly), and European Carp. A fishing licence is required.
• Short Walks: Pleasant walks along the riverbank.
• Local Pubs:
  • Wahgunyah Hotel (Wahgunyah): Approx. 11 km
  • Royal Hotel (Corowa): Approx. 14 km
  • Corowa Hotel (Corowa): Approx. 14 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Various cafes, bakeries, and restaurants in Corowa and Wahgunyah.
  • Winery restaurants throughout the Rutherglen region.
• Local Attractions:
  • Rutherglen Wine Region (cellar doors start within 5 km)
  • Corowa Whisky and Chocolate
  • Corowa Federation Museum
  • Murray River boat cruises
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Corowa Bindaree Holiday Park: Approx. 13 km
  • Ball Park Caravan Park (Corowa): Approx. 15 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Granthams Bend (Upstream): Approx. 35 km
  • Doolans Bend (Downstream): Approx. 20 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Corowa Showgrounds: Approx. 15 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Wahgunyah (11 km) or Corowa (14 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Corowa or Wahgunyah.
• Nearest Public Toilets (Flush): Corowa (Bangerang Park) or Wahgunyah (Willows Reserve).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry. Perfect for water activities. High fire danger season.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Warm days and cool nights. Ideal camping weather and vintage season in the wineries.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold, with frosty mornings and cool days. Can be wet. Good for campfires.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and pleasant weather. The river can run high. A beautiful time to visit as the region comes to life.