Sonnemans Beach Free Camping, Tocumwal NSW
Discover the serene beauty of Sonnemans Beach, a pristine free camping destination nestled on the iconic Murray River near Tocumwal, New South Wales. This idyllic spot offers campers a quintessential Australian bush experience, combining sandy river beaches with the shade of majestic river red gums. It’s the perfect retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle, unwind, and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re a keen angler hoping to land a Murray cod, a family seeking a safe swimming spot, or a caravanner looking for a peaceful overnight stay, Sonnemans Beach provides a tranquil backdrop for your adventures. The campsite is a spacious, informal area where you can find your own private corner of the riverbank to set up. Access is suitable for a range of vehicles, though care should be taken on the dirt tracks, especially after rain. As a primitive bush camp, it operates on a self-sufficient basis, meaning you must bring everything you need, including water, power, and toilet facilities, and adhere to the ‘leave no trace’ principle by taking all your rubbish with you. The gentle lapping of the river, the chorus of native birdlife at dawn and dusk, and the spectacular sunsets over the water create a memorable atmosphere. Being pet-friendly, it’s a wonderful opportunity for your four-legged friends to enjoy the great outdoors with you. The proximity to the charming town of Tocumwal ensures that essential supplies, local pubs, and eateries are just a short drive away, offering the perfect balance of secluded camping and convenient access to amenities.
Sonnemans Beach
- Address: Murray River, Tocumwal NSW 2714
- GPS Coordinates: -35.80445, 145.53621
Location Details
- Name: Sonnemans Beach (Tocumwal Town Beach)
- Address: Murray River, Tocumwal NSW 2714
- GPS Coordinates: -35.80445, 145.53621
Site Information
- Location: On the banks of the Murray River, accessed via dirt tracks off the Tocumwal-Barooga Road.
- Site suitable for: Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and big rigs. Check ground conditions, as some areas can be soft sand.
- Road access: Graded dirt road, generally suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry conditions. Caution is advised after rain.
- Site surface: A mix of dirt and sand.
- Camping permitted: Yes.
- Maximum overnight stays: Check local signage, typically managed by NSW National Parks or local council. Short stays are expected.
- Picnic tables: No.
- Potable water: No.
- Mobile phone coverage: Yes, Telstra generally provides the most reliable service. Coverage with other providers may be limited.
- TV reception: Fair, a good antenna is recommended.
- Onsite public toilets: No.
- Rubbish bins: No. Please adhere to ‘leave no trace’ principles and take all your rubbish with you.
- Open fires: Permitted, subject to local fire restrictions and total fire bans. Check the NSW Rural Fire Service website for current conditions. Use existing fire pits where possible.
- Generator use: Permitted, but please be considerate of other campers and limit use to reasonable hours.
- Number of sites available: Unmarked and undefined sites along the riverbank.
- Essentials to bring: Drinking water, portable toilet, firewood, rubbish bags, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit.
- Pet friendly: Yes, pets are permitted but must be kept under control at all times.
- Fishing: Yes, fishing in the Murray River is popular. A NSW fishing licence is required.
- Short walks: Yes, pleasant walks can be taken along the riverbank and through the surrounding bushland.
Local Amenities
- Local Pubs:
- Tattersalls Hotel Tocumwal: ~4 km
- Terminus Hotel Tocumwal: ~4 km
- Kelly’s Pub Tocumwal: ~4 km
- Places to Eat:
- A range of cafes, bakeries, and takeaway shops in Tocumwal town centre: ~4 km
- The Old Bank Restaurant & Cafe: ~4 km
- Tocumwal Golf & Bowls Club Bistro: ~5 km
- Local Attractions:
- The Big Murray Cod: ~4 km
- Tocumwal Historic Aerodrome Museum: ~8 km
- Tocumwal Town Beach: ~4 km
- The Blowhole Reserve: ~6 km
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Tocumwal Tourist Park: ~4 km
- Boomerang Way Tourist Park: ~5 km
- Finley River Park (Tocumwal): ~4 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Ulupna Island Reserve (VIC): ~15 km
- Quinnins Beach (NSW): ~12 km
- Finley Lake Caravan Park (Donation Camp): ~21 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Tocumwal Visitor Information Centre (Showgrounds): ~4 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Various service stations in Tocumwal town centre: ~4 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Tocumwal Visitor Information Centre (Showgrounds): ~4 km (check for availability and any fees).
- Nearest Public Toilets:
- Tocumwal Foreshore, Deniliquin Street, Tocumwal: ~4 km
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Tocumwal Region
Summer (December – February): Expect hot and dry conditions, with daytime temperatures frequently exceeding 35°C. This is the perfect time for swimming and water activities on the Murray River. Nights are typically warm. Sun protection is essential, and be vigilant about fire bans.
Autumn (March – May): Days are warm and sunny with mild nights, making it an ideal season for camping. The weather is generally stable and pleasant, with comfortable temperatures for fishing and bushwalking.
Winter (June – August): Conditions are cool to cold. Daytime temperatures are mild, typically ranging from 12°C to 16°C, but nights can be very cold, often dropping close to freezing. Campfires are popular during this time (check for restrictions), and it’s a peaceful season with fewer crowds.
Spring (September – November): The weather is mild and pleasant, with warming days and cool nights. The landscape becomes green and vibrant. It’s an excellent time for all outdoor activities, though be prepared for occasional rain showers.