The Willows Reserve, Wahgunyah – Premier Free Camping on the Murray River

Nestled under the shade of magnificent old willow and gum trees on the banks of the mighty Murray River, The Willows Reserve in Wahgunyah is one of Victoria’s most popular and scenic free camping spots. This beautiful, sprawling reserve offers travellers a classic Australian riverside experience, where you can set up your caravan, motorhome, or tent just metres from the water’s edge. It’s the perfect base for exploring the world-class Rutherglen wine region, the historic twin towns of Wahgunyah and Corowa, and the endless recreational opportunities the Murray River provides. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, with plenty of space to find your own slice of paradise.

The Willows is a back-to-basics camp, with its primary appeal being its stunning location and the fact that it is completely free. While the facilities are limited to non-flushing toilets, the trade-off is an authentic bush camping experience in a prime location. Campers must be self-sufficient, bringing their own water and power. The reserve is a haven for a wide range of activities; it’s a paradise for fishing enthusiasts chasing the elusive Murray Cod, a great spot to launch a kayak for a leisurely paddle, or simply the perfect place to sit back, relax, and watch the river flow by. The charming town of Wahgunyah is within walking distance, and a beautiful riverside walking and cycling track connects you directly to the larger town of Corowa just across the border. For an unbeatable combination of scenery, location, and value, The Willows is a must-visit destination.

Site Information

• Name: The Willows Reserve
• Address: Short St, Wahgunyah VIC 3687, Australia
• Phone Number: Not available (Managed by Parks Victoria/Council).

• GPS Coordinates: -36.007462, 146.392604

• Website: Not available.

Campground Details

• Location: On the banks of the Murray River in Wahgunyah.
• Site Suitable For: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and motorhomes. Access can be tight for very large rigs.
• Road Access: Sealed road to the entrance, then dirt tracks within the reserve.
• Site Surface: Dirt and grass. Can get boggy after rain.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping is permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 14 days.
• Facilities: Non-flushing (long drop) toilets.
• Potable Water: Not available. You must bring all your own water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for all major carriers.
• TV Reception: Good.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a strict carry-in, carry-out site. Please leave no trace.
• Open Fires: Permitted in designated fireplaces only, subject to local fire restrictions and Total Fire Ban days.
• Generator Use: Permitted with consideration for the large number of campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Large, unmarked area, but it is extremely popular and can be crowded.
• Essentials to Bring: All water, power, cooking supplies, firewood, and rubbish bags.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome on a leash.
• Fishing: Excellent Murray Cod and Yellowbelly fishing from the bank or by boat.
• Short Walks: Fantastic walking and cycling track along the river connecting Wahgunyah to Corowa.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Wahgunyah Hotel: Approx. 1 km
  • Royal Hotel, Corowa NSW: Approx. 3 km
  • Newmarket Hotel, Corowa NSW: Approx. 3 km
• Places to Eat:
  • The Pickled Sisters Cafe (at Cofield Wines): Approx. 2 km
  • Corowa RSL Club: Approx. 3 km
  • Extensive range of cafes, bakeries, and pubs in Corowa.
• Local Attractions:
  • Rutherglen Wine Region (cellar doors like All Saints Estate, St Leonards): Starting from 5 km
  • Corowa Whisky and Chocolate Factory: Approx. 4 km
  • Federation Museum, Corowa: Approx. 3 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Ball Park Caravan Park, Corowa NSW: Approx. 4 km
  • Rivergum Holiday Park, Corowa NSW: Approx. 5 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Police Paddocks, just upstream from The Willows.
  • Granthams Bend, further downstream.
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Corowa Showgrounds Public Dump Point, NSW: Approx. 4 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Available in Wahgunyah. Multiple major stations in Corowa (3 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Corowa Visitor Information Centre often allows filling of tanks.
• Public Toilets (offsite):
  • Located in the main street park of Wahgunyah.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry, with temperatures often in the mid-to-high 30s (°C). Ideal for river activities.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Pleasant and stable weather with warm days and mild evenings. The best time for wine touring. Temperatures average 11°C to 27°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool to cold with frequent morning frosts and fog, often clearing to sunny days. Average temperatures range from 3°C to 15°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and pleasant, though weather can be changeable. The region is green and vibrant. Temperatures average 8°C to 23°C.