School holidays are here again and what better way to spend them than by fully embracing the cold weather, rugging up and camping out along the iconic Murray River? Winter time promises fewer crowds and a gentle, resounding quiet - offering visitors the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. Here we’ve rounded up the very best spots for the very best winter camping adventure along the Murray River.
Situated in the traditional lands of the Bangerang people, is historic Corowa with its comfortable climate - a campers’ heaven, particularly during winter time. The fishing is wonderful as the usual rush at the banks quieten down and there is plenty to do beyond the campsite. Riverside picnics featuring wine sourced from one of the many incredible wineries renowned of the region, or rugging up by the fire with some chocolate or whisky from the Corowa Whisky and Chocolate Factory are excellent starting points. With both free camping and more fuss free options that include all the right amenities, Corowa is the away-from-the-rat-race camping spot this winter calls for.
Heading west along the Murray you’ll find Swan Hill with its charming township offering more than just scenic views of the river. Step back in time at the Pioneer Settlement showcasing the area’s rich pioneer heritage, and experience the spectacular laser light shows - ‘Heartbeat of the Murray’ and ‘Legends of the Mallee’ - which share stories and the history of the Murray River’s creation and the area’s First Nations People.
Pitch the tent along the grassy banks of stunning Lake Boga and spend the mornings wandering around the lake’s trails, filling up on perfect country comfort food along the newly launched Pub Grub Trail, or checking out the latest silo art instalment of the famous Silo Art Trail. An absolute haven for campers in the know, Swan Hill’s options abound from free camping in the rugged and peaceful Nyah Recreation Reserve to the very family friendly, full of fun, BIG4 Riverside Swan Hill.
Yarrawonga, where the lake meets the river, is a vibrant community with the promise of serenity by the water. It’s the ideal spot for a family fishing expedition, lazy days reading along the banks, or a round of golf on one of the area’s award winning courses. Winter brings a different kind of beauty to mild Yarrawonga, with frost covered trees and beautiful foggy mornings adding to the majesty of the place. Yarrawonga Mulwala Holiday Park is a favourite for families, and a little further down the road but worth the side step is Ulupna Island where you can camp (or glamp!) with the koalas and kangaroos who call this special place home.
Echuca Moama is the classic camp destination for those seeking the best of both nature and creature comforts. Famed for its paddlesteamers, the town has an iconic pull for campers who can explore the great food and shopping opportunities in town, then return to a nearby riverside campsite equipped with all the amenities for a comfortable and carefree getaway. Merool Holiday Park and its pioneer themed village front is a classic spot. And glamping at Talo Retreat at Moama on the Murray offers something really special and a little bit romantic. The highlight is the private bath tubs on the deck at sunset as the mobs of kangaroos drift in for the evening - pure Murray River magic.
Not much further north is Deniliquin where visitors can easily spy emus and kangaroos as they explore where the Murray meets the Edward River. The ideal spot for those really seeking to get away from the world and into the beauty of nature with crisp mornings on a quiet river, misty riverbanks and golden sunlight piercing the red gums - campers have long revelled in the tranquillity and beauty of this corner of the world. The McLean Beach Holiday Park is a great place to start, or the BIG4 Deniliquin Holiday Park is a family favourite with a great combination of fun activities and opportunities to unwind right on the river’s banks.
And for our hidden gem hot tip, head to Barham Koondrook for an off-the-beaten-path getaway that is sure to become a family favourite. An authentic experience in nature with just the right amount of creature comfort amenities to genuinely relax. Exciting eateries, boutique country retail stores and a very special farmgate experience and markets, Barham Koondrook is refreshing and special. Glamping at the Koondrook Retreat eco resort offers unrivalled luxury with unrivalled views and tranquillity, or the very family friendly BIG4 Barham Holiday Park is another great choice.
So pack your bags and your winter woollies to set off on a camping journey along the Murray. From Corowa to Koondrook, the country and campfire call, offering all who answer a happy camping experience along Australia’s most legendary river.
