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Glenos Camp (Gunbower Forest) – A Hidden Bush Hideaway on the Murray River

Glenos Camp (Gunbower Forest)

A Hidden Bush Hideaway on the Murray River

Glenos Camp is a tranquil and lesser-known bush camping spot located deep within the Gunbower Forest, approximately 25 kilometres northwest of Cohuna. Situated along the River Track, this site offers a classic Murray River experience, surrounded by the towering majesty of the River Red Gums. It is an ideal destination for self-sufficient campers who are looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a private slice of the riverbank, far away from the noise of the main highways.

The camping area consists of dispersed, informal sites that are tucked into the forest. There are no marked bays, giving you the freedom to set up your camp where you please—whether that’s right on the high bank overlooking the water or further back in a sheltered glade. The ground is a mix of natural earth and leaf litter, suitable for swags, tents, and off-road camper trailers. The river here is wide and peaceful, perfect for casting a line for Murray Cod or launching a canoe to explore the snags and backwaters.

As a remote bush camp, there are no facilities at Glenos Camp. This means no toilets, showers, or tap water. Visitors must be completely self-sufficient, bringing their own portable toilet, water, and power supplies. This “leave no trace” philosophy is essential to preserving the pristine nature of the Gunbower Forest. Access is via unsealed forest tracks (River Track), which can be rough and rutted. While often accessible by 2WD in dry weather, the clay-based tracks become extremely slippery and boggy after rain, so a 4WD is highly recommended, especially during the wetter months.

Despite its isolation, Glenos Camp is a rewarding destination for those who make the journey. You are surrounded by one of the most significant wetland areas in Victoria, teeming with birdlife and native wildlife. While you feel a world away, the town of Cohuna is accessible for supplies and a hot meal if needed. Whether you are a serious angler, a nature photographer, or simply seeking solitude by the campfire, Glenos Camp offers an authentic and memorable bush camping experience.

Glenos Camp – VIC Location Map

Camping Information

  • Name: Glenos Camp (Gunbower National Park / State Forest)
  • Address: Unnamed Road (Access via River Track), Gunbower VIC 3566, Australia
  • Managed By: Parks Victoria / DEECA (Free Camping)
  • GPS Coordinates: -35.74527, 144.2606

Park Location (Satellite View)


Site Information

  • Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River in the Gunbower Forest, northwest of Cohuna. Access is via the River Track network.
  • Site Suitable For: 4WD campers, off-road caravans, camper trailers, and tents. Large motorhomes may struggle with the narrow winding tracks and overhanging branches.
  • Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks. 4WD Recommended. Tracks are clay-based and become impassable mud after rain. 2WD access is risky in wet conditions.
  • Site Surface: Natural bush floor, dirt, leaf litter, and grass. Uneven ground is common.

Available Facilities

  • Bush Camping (No Amenities)
  • No Toilets (You must bring a portable toilet).
  • No Showers.
  • No Drinking Water.
  • No Rubbish Bins (Carry in, Carry out).
  • River Access (High banks, natural spots for fishing/kayaking).
  • Campfires Permitted (In constructed fireplaces only, subject to fire bans).

Essentials to Bring

  • Portable Toilet: Mandatory requirement as there are no facilities.
  • Water: Bring all drinking and washing water.
  • Rubbish Bags: You must take all waste with you.
  • Firewood: Bring clean firewood (collection in National Park areas is prohibited).
  • Insect Repellent: Essential near the water.
  • Shovel: For campfire safety.
  • Recovery Gear: Essential if rain is forecast or tracks are wet.

Park Policies & Features

  • Pet Friendly: Check Signage. This area is part of the Gunbower National Park / State Forest complex. Dogs are not permitted in the National Park sections but may be allowed in State Forest areas. Please check local maps and signage carefully upon entry.
  • Fishing: Excellent. The river here is full of snags and deep holes, ideal for Murray Cod and Golden Perch. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
  • Short Walks: Explore the forest tracks on foot to see the diverse birdlife and wetlands.
  • Swimming: Possible in the river. Be aware of snags, strong currents, and cold water.

Local Amenities (Cohuna & Gunbower)

Local Pubs

  • Cohuna Hotel: (King George St, Cohuna) Approx. 25km South-East.
  • Gunbower Hotel: (Murray Valley Hwy, Gunbower) Approx. 30km South.
  • The Bower Tavern: (King George St, Cohuna) Approx. 25km South-East.

Places to Eat

  • Cohuna Pizza & Takeaway: (King George St, Cohuna) Approx. 25km South-East.
  • Bower Tavern Bistro: (Cohuna) Approx. 25km South-East.
  • Factory & Field: (King George St, Cohuna) Approx. 25km South-East – Cafe and produce.

Local Attractions

  • Gunbower National Park: (On-site) – World’s largest River Red Gum forest.
  • Cohuna Beach: (Cohuna) Approx. 25km South-East – Inland beach on Gunbower Creek.
  • Gateway to Gannawarra Visitor Centre: (Cohuna) Approx. 25km South-East.
  • Torrumbarry Weir: (Weir Rd) Approx. 40km South-East.
  • Mt Hope: (Pyramid Hill Rd) Approx. 40km South – Granite outcrop climb.

Nearest Caravan Parks

  • Cohuna Waterfront Holiday Park: (Cohuna Island Rd) Approx. 25km South-East.
  • Gunbower Caravan Park: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 30km South.
  • Ibis Caravan Park: (Kerang) Approx. 30km West.

Nearest Free Camps

  • Spences Bridge: (Cohuna) Approx. 15km South-East.
  • Masters Landing: (Gunbower) Approx. 10km East.
  • Five Sleeper: (Gunbower) Approx. 8km West.

Nearest Dump Points

  • Cohuna Public Dump Point: (Cohuna Island Rd) Approx. 25km South-East.
  • Gunbower Recreation Reserve: (Gunbower) Approx. 30km South.

Nearest Petrol Stations

  • Ampol Cohuna: (King George St) Approx. 25km South-East.
  • Gunbower Fuel Stop: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 30km South.

Nearest Drinking Water Resupply

  • Cohuna: Public taps in Garden Park. Approx. 25km South-East.
  • Gunbower: Recreation Reserve. Approx. 30km South.

Nearest Public Toilets

  • Cohuna Memorial Hall: (Market St) Approx. 25km South-East.
  • Masters Landing: (Nearby) Drop toilet may be available (check condition). Approx. 10km East.

Seasonal Weather Forecast for Cohuna / Gunbower

  • Summer (December – February): Hot and dry. Average highs 31°C – 34°C. The river shade is essential. Fire danger is high.
  • Autumn (March – May): Mild and sunny. Warm days (22°C – 28°C) and cooler nights. Perfect for camping.
  • Winter (June – August): Cool to cold. Average highs 13°C – 15°C. Nights are cold (3°C – 5°C) with frost likely. Tracks can be muddy.
  • Spring (September – November): Warming up. Highs 19°C – 26°C. The forest may be flooded (natural cycle), restricting access.

 

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