Nestled on the tranquil banks of the Goulburn River, Breen’s Beach offers a superb free camping experience within the Lower Goulburn National Park. This secluded spot, located near Mywee in Victoria, is a perfect destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the peace and quiet of a classic Australian river-scape. The campsite is renowned for its spacious, sandy beach area, which slopes gently into the river, making it ideal for launching a canoe, swimming on a warm day, or simply setting up a chair and enjoying the serene water views.

The area is beautifully shaded by a canopy of mature native trees, including majestic River Red Gums, providing welcome relief from the summer sun and creating a rich habitat for local wildlife. Campers are likely to be greeted by kangaroos, wallabies, and an abundance of birdlife, from colourful parrots to water birds hunting along the river’s edge. The informal, spread-out nature of the camping spots allows visitors to find their own private slice of paradise away from crowds. It’s an authentic, off-grid bush camp where the primary soundtrack is the gentle flow of the river and the sounds of the Australian bush.

As a primitive campsite, Breen’s Beach has no facilities, meaning campers must be entirely self-reliant, carrying in all necessary supplies, including water and a portable toilet. Access is via dirt tracks which are generally manageable for 2WD vehicles in dry weather, but can become challenging after rain. It’s essential to check conditions beforehand. By embracing a ‘leave no trace’ ethos, campers help preserve the pristine nature of this special place. For anyone looking to fish, relax, or explore the beautiful Goulburn Valley, Breen’s Beach provides a wonderfully peaceful and memorable free camping adventure.

Campsite Information

• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes. Access may be tight for very large rigs.
• Road Access: Dirt road. Can be narrow in places and may become slippery or inaccessible after heavy rain. 2WD accessible in dry conditions.
• Site Surface: Dirt, grass, sand.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit, check with Parks Victoria for any specific park regulations.
• Facilities: No formal facilities. This is a primitive bush camp.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Patchy to non-existent. Telstra generally offers the best chance of a signal.
• TV Reception: Poor to none.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No. You must be self-contained and have your own toilet.
• Rubbish Bins: No. You must take all your rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Permitted in self-contained fire pits, subject to local fire restrictions and total fire bans. Check CFA website for current conditions. Do not collect firewood from the park.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of other campers with noise levels and usage times.
• Number of Sites Available: Numerous informal sites spread along the river.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, toilet, toilet paper, rubbish bags, firewood, insect repellent, sun protection, first-aid kit.
• Pet Friendly: No, pets are not permitted in Lower Goulburn National Park.

Local Area & Amenities

• Fishing: Yes, the Goulburn River is popular for catching Murray Cod, Golden Perch (Yellowbelly), and Redfin. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
• Short Walks: Plenty of informal walking opportunities along the riverbank and through the surrounding bushland.
• Local Pubs:
  • The Murchison Hotel (Murchison East): ~18 km
  • Royal Mail Hotel (Nagambie): ~30 km
  • The Aussie Hotel (Shepparton): ~35 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Murchison (Pub, Bakery, Cafe): ~18 km
  • Nagambie (Pubs, Cafes, Bakeries): ~30 km
  • Shepparton (Extensive range of all dining options): ~35 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Nagambie Lakes and Wineries: ~30 km
  • Shepparton Motor Museum: ~35 km
  • Shepparton Art Museum (SAM): ~35 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Murchison Caravan Park: ~18 km
  • Nagambie Lakes Leisure Park: ~30 km
  • Various parks in Shepparton: ~35 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Other sites within Lower Goulburn National Park (e.g., Loch Garry).
  • Various reserves along the Goulburn River.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Murchison Recreation Reserve: ~18 km
  • Nagambie Showgrounds: ~30 km
  • Shepparton Showgrounds: ~35 km
• Nearest Petrol Station: Murchison (~18 km) or Shepparton (~35 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps available in Murchison, Nagambie, and Shepparton.
• Public Toilets: Located in Murchison, Nagambie, and Shepparton town centres.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and typically dry. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 32°C, with days often exceeding 35°C. High bushfire risk.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Pleasant, sunny days and cool nights. Average temperatures from 9°C to 25°C. Generally considered ideal camping weather.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold and can be wet. Average temperatures from 4°C to 15°C, with frequent morning frosts.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild with increasing warmth, but can be variable. Average temperatures from 8°C to 24°C. The landscape is green and vibrant.