Zinettis Beach Number One
secluded Riverfront Camping in Yarrawonga Regional Park
Zinettis Beach Number One (often spelled Zanettis) is a stunning dispersed camping area located on the banks of the Murray River, just west of Yarrawonga. Situated within the Yarrawonga Regional Park, this site is a favourite among locals and visitors alike for its spacious, shaded campsites and excellent river access. The area is defined by its towering River Red Gums and a large, sandy beach that slopes gently into the water, making it an ideal spot for swimming, launching a boat, or simply relaxing with a book by the river’s edge.
The camping area offers a true “bush camping” experience. Sites are unallocated and spread along the riverbank and back into the forest, allowing you to find a spot that perfectly suits your setup. Whether you have a swag, a family tent, or a large off-road caravan, there is plenty of room to spread out. The ground is generally flat and compacted, providing a solid base for camp. The dense canopy of trees offers welcome relief from the summer sun, while the open spaces are perfect for stargazing on clear nights.
As with most sites in the Yarrawonga Regional Park, there are no facilities at Zinettis Beach. This means you must be fully self-sufficient, bringing your own toilet, water, and power. This requirement helps to keep the area peaceful and pristine. Access is via unsealed tracks through the forest, which are typically suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry weather but can become slippery and boggy after rain.
Despite its secluded feel, Zinettis Beach is only a short 10-15 minute drive from the amenities of Yarrawonga and Mulwala. This allows you to enjoy the tranquility of the bush while being close enough to pop into town for supplies, a meal at a local pub, or a round of golf. Whether you’re an avid angler chasing the legendary Murray Cod or a family looking for a budget-friendly holiday, Zinettis Beach Number One offers a classic Murray River camping experience.
Zinettis Beach Number One – VIC Location Map
Camping Information
- Name: Zinettis Beach Number One (Yarrawonga Regional Park)
- Address: Zinettis Beach Number One, Boomanoomana (Access via Murray Valley Hwy & Forest Tracks), VIC/NSW Border Region
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -35.96661, 145.94029
Park Location (Satellite View)
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Murray River, approximately 8km west of Yarrawonga. It is part of the string of beaches in the Yarrawonga Regional Park.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans (off-road recommended for clearance), camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks. Generally accessible by 2WD in dry weather. Tracks are clay-based and become extremely slippery/boggy when wet. 4WD recommended if rain is forecast.
- Site Surface: Natural bush floor, dirt, leaf litter, and sand near the river.
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/bank).
- Campfires Permitted (In constructed fireplaces only, subject to fire bans).
Essentials to Bring
- Portable Toilet: Mandatory 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 the park is often restricted/scarce).
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes are active near the water.
- Recovery Gear: Recommended if rain is forecast.
- Shovel: For campfire safety.
Park Policies & Features
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted in the Yarrawonga Regional Park but must be under control.
- Fishing: Excellent. The area features deep holes and snags ideal for Murray Cod and Golden Perch. Bank fishing is popular. Victorian Fishing Licence required.
- Short Walks: You can explore the forest tracks on foot or walk along the riverbank to neighbouring beaches like Zinettis No. 2.
- Swimming: The sandy beach provides good access for swimming. Always be aware of river currents, submerged logs, and variable depths.
Local Amenities (Yarrawonga & Mulwala)
Local Pubs
- Terminus Hotel: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 8km East.
- Burkes Hotel: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 8km East.
- Criterion Hotel: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 8.5km East.
Places to Eat
- The Naked Tree Cafe: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 8km.
- Belle’s Cafe: (Belmore St, Yarrawonga) Approx. 8km.
- Yarrawonga Bakery: (Belmore St) Approx. 8km.
- Rich Glen Provedore: (Belmore St) Approx. 8km.
Local Attractions
- Lake Mulwala: (Yarrawonga) Approx. 9km – Boating, fishing, and cruises.
- Yarrawonga Weir: (Weir Rd) Approx. 10km – Walk across the weir wall.
- Chinaman’s Island: (Yarrawonga) Approx. 10km – Walking tracks and birdwatching.
- Byramine Homestead & Brewery: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 7km West.
- Rich Glen Olive Estate: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 8km West.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Yarrawonga Riverlands Tourist Park: (Brears Rd) Approx. 6km East.
- Yarrawonga Holiday Park: (Burley Rd) Approx. 8km East.
- NRMA Yarrawonga Mulwala Holiday Park: (Corowa Rd, Mulwala) Approx. 10km.
Nearest Free Camps
- Forges Beach Number One: (Next beach east) Approx. 2km East.
- Nevins Beach: (Burramine) Approx. 7km West.
- Bourkes Bend: (Burramine) Approx. 12km West.
Nearest Dump Points
- Yarrawonga Showgrounds: (Dunlop St) Approx. 9km.
- Mulwala Public Dump Point: (Owen Bridges Reserve) Approx. 10km.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- United Petroleum Yarrawonga: (Murray Valley Hwy) Approx. 7km.
- BP Yarrawonga: (Benalla-Yarrawonga Rd) Approx. 9km.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Yarrawonga Showgrounds: (Dunlop St) Taps usually available. Approx. 9km.
- Yarrawonga Foreshore: (Bank St) Approx. 9km.
Nearest Public Toilets
- Yarrawonga Foreshore: (Bank St) Approx. 9km.
- Yarrawonga Showgrounds: (Dunlop St) Approx. 9km.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Yarrawonga
- Summer (December – February): Hot and dry. Average highs 30°C – 33°C, often higher. Perfect for river activities.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild and pleasant. Warm days (21°C – 27°C) and cooler nights. Ideal for camping.
- Winter (June – August): Cool to cold. Average highs 13°C – 15°C. Nights are cold (3°C – 5°C) with frost likely. Campfires essential.
- Spring (September – November): Warming up. Highs 18°C – 25°C. The forest is green and vibrant.