Little Toms Beach (Cobram Regional Park)
Ideally Located Free Camping on the Murray River
Little Toms Beach is widely recognised as one of the most accessible and picturesque free camping spots along the Murray River in the Cobram region. Situated within the Cobram Regional Park, this dispersed bush camping area offers a prime riverfront experience without the price tag. It is a favourite destination for families, anglers, and caravanners who enjoy the freedom of off-grid living while being just a stone’s throw from a major town. The area is characterised by its majestic River Red Gums, sandy river beaches, and tranquil atmosphere.
One of the key appeals of Little Toms Beach is its accessibility. Unlike some remote bush camps that require a serious 4WD, the tracks into Little Toms are generally hard-packed and suitable for 2WD vehicles and caravans in dry weather. This ease of access makes it a popular choice for those towing larger vans who still want that authentic “bush” feel. The sites are unallocated and spread out along the riverbank, giving you the freedom to choose a spot that offers the best shade or the best view of the water.
As a Parks Victoria site, Little Toms Beach is purely a bush camping area. This means there are no facilities on-site—no toilets, no showers, and no tap water. Visitors must be completely self-sufficient, bringing everything they need and taking everything with them when they leave. This self-reliance preserves the natural beauty of the park and ensures it remains free for everyone to enjoy.
The location is perfect for water lovers. You can launch a kayak or canoe directly from the bank, cast a line for the elusive Murray Cod, or simply cool off with a swim on a hot summer’s day. Despite feeling like a secluded hideaway, you are only a few kilometres from the centre of Cobram, where you can enjoy excellent coffee, stock up on supplies, or play a round of golf at the renowned Cobram Barooga Golf Club. Little Toms Beach offers the perfect balance of nature and convenience for your next Murray River escape.
Little Toms Beach – VIC Location Map
Camping Information
- Name: Little Toms Beach (Cobram Regional Park)
- Address: Unamed Road (Access via River Rd), Cobram VIC 3644, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -35.9008, 145.65599
Location (Satellite View)
Site Information
- Location: Located on the Victorian side of the Murray River, approximately 3-4km east of the Cobram town centre. It sits between the popular Thompson’s Beach and Big Toms Beach.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans (including large rigs), camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents.
- Road Access: Unsealed access via River Road. The tracks are generally flat and hard-packed, making them suitable for 2WD and caravans in dry weather. Tracks can become slippery mud after rain.
- Site Surface: Compacted dirt and sand with plenty of grassy patches and shade from River Red Gums.
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 (Sandy beach areas for swimming/launching kayaks).
- Campfires Permitted (In constructed fireplaces only, subject to fire bans).
Essentials to Bring
- Portable Toilet: Mandatory as there are no facilities.
- Water: Sufficient drinking and washing water for your entire stay.
- Rubbish Bags: You must take all waste with you.
- Firewood: Bring your own clean firewood (collection in the park is often restricted).
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and sandflies can be active near the water.
- Shovel: For campfire safety.
Park Policies & Features
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted in Cobram Regional Park but must be kept under control to protect wildlife and other campers.
- Fishing: Excellent. The Murray River is famous for Murray Cod, Golden Perch (Yellowbelly), and Crayfish (in season). You need a Victorian Fishing Licence.
- Short Walks: You can walk along the river tracks connecting to Big Toms Beach (East) or back towards Thompson’s Beach (West). The terrain is flat and scenic.
- Swimming: Popular sandy beach areas for swimming. Always be careful of river currents, submerged logs, and varying depths.
Local Amenities (Cobram & Barooga)
Local Pubs
- Cobram Hotel (The Top Pub): (Main St) Approx. 4km
- Barooga Hotel: (Golf Course Rd, Barooga NSW) Approx. 6km
- Sporties Barooga: (Burkinshaw St, Barooga) Approx. 6.5km – Huge club with bistro/sports bar.
Places to Eat
- Big Mumma’s Kitchen: (High St) Approx. 4km – Homestyle food.
- Presto Pasta & Pizza: (High St) Approx. 4km.
- The Beach Cafe: (Thompson’s Beach) Approx. 3km – Great spot for coffee by the river.
- Various Bakeries: (Main St) Approx. 4km.
Local Attractions
- Thompson’s Beach: (Rockarama Rd) Approx. 3km – Australia’s largest inland beach.
- The Big Strawberry: (Koonoomoo) Approx. 13km – Pick your own strawberries and cafe.
- Cactus Country: (Strathmerton) Approx. 18km – Incredible cactus gardens and Mexican food.
- Cobram Barooga Golf Club: (Barooga) Approx. 7km – Renowned 36-hole course.
- Byramine Homestead & Brewery: (Yarrawonga Rd) Approx. 18km.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Cobram Willows Caravan Park: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 4km.
- RACV Cobram Resort: (Campbell Rd) Approx. 5km.
- Oasis Caravan Park: (Koonoomoo Rd) Approx. 4.5km.
Nearest Free Camps
- Big Toms Beach: (Next beach east) Approx. 1km.
- Scotts Beach: (Further east) Approx. 3km.
- Horseshoe Bend: (West of town) Approx. 8km.
Nearest Dump Points
- Federation Park Cobram: (Punt Rd) Approx. 4km.
- Barooga Recreation Reserve: (Snell Rd, Barooga) Approx. 7km.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- Mobil Cobram: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 4km.
- Woolworths Petrol: (Bank St) Approx. 4km.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Federation Park: (Punt Rd) Taps available. Approx. 4km.
- Cobram Showgrounds: (Bank St) Check availability. Approx. 4.5km.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Thompson’s Beach: (Rockarama Rd) Approx. 3km.
- Federation Park: (Punt Rd) Approx. 4km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Cobram
- Summer (December – February): Hot and dry. Average highs range from 30°C to 33°C, often exceeding 40°C. The river is the place to be!
- Autumn (March – May): Mild and sunny. Warm days (22°C – 27°C) and cool nights. Ideal camping weather.
- Winter (June – August): Cool to cold. Average highs 13°C – 15°C. Nights are cold (3°C – 5°C) with frost common. Campfires essential.
- Spring (September – November): Pleasant warming trend. Highs 19°C – 26°C. Perfect for golf and walking.