Wills Beach is a stunning designated camping area located within the popular Wills Bend precinct of the River Murray Reserve. Situated approximately 19 kilometres west of the Echuca township in Wharparilla, this site is a favourite among campers who love large, sandy beaches and easy access to the water. The beach itself gently slopes into the Murray River, creating an ideal environment for swimming, kayaking, and beach fishing, all set against a backdrop of towering River Red Gums.
The camping area offers spacious, unallocated sites that are dispersed throughout the forest and along the high bank behind the beach. The ground is a mix of compacted earth and grass, providing a solid base for caravans, camper trailers, and tents. One of the major drawcards of the Wills Bend area is that it offers a true bush camping experience but with the added convenience of drop toilets located nearby within the reserve. This makes it an excellent option for families and those who prefer basic amenities over completely self-sufficient bush camps.
Wills Beach is perfect for water lovers. The wide bend in the river slows the current slightly, making it a popular spot for water skiing and boating during the warmer months. The surrounding forest is also rich in birdlife, providing a peaceful natural soundtrack to your stay. While the site is free, campers are expected to adhere to “leave no trace” principles, taking all rubbish with them to keep this beautiful stretch of river pristine.
Access is via O’Dwyer Road, which leads onto unsealed forest tracks. These are generally well-maintained and suitable for 2WD vehicles and caravans in dry weather. However, the clay tracks can become slippery and boggy after rain, so it is always wise to check conditions before heading in. With Echuca just a short drive away, you have easy access to supermarkets, historic attractions, and dining, allowing you to enjoy the seclusion of the river with town conveniences close at hand.
Wills Beach – VIC Location Map
Wills Beach (Wills Bend / River Murray Reserve)
- Address: Unnamed Road (Access via O’Dwyer Rd), Wharparilla VIC 3564, Australia
- Managed By: Parks Victoria (Free Camping)
- GPS Coordinates: -36.05202, 144.62721
Site Information
- Location: Situated on the Victorian bank of the Murray River in Wharparilla, approximately 19km west of Echuca. It is part of the Wills Bend camping precinct.
- Site Suitable For: Caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents. There is plenty of room for groups.
- Road Access: Unsealed forest tracks via O’Dwyer Road. 2WD accessible in dry weather. Tracks are clay-based and can become slippery/boggy when wet. 4WD recommended if rain is forecast.
- Site Surface: Natural bush floor, dirt, leaf litter, and large sandy beach areas.
Available Facilities
- Bush Camping with Toilet
- Toilets (Drop toilets available in the Wills Bend precinct).
- No Showers.
- No Drinking Water.
- No Rubbish Bins (Carry in, Carry out).
- River Access (Excellent sandy beach for swimming/boats).
- Campfires Permitted (In constructed fireplaces only, subject to fire bans).
Essentials to Bring
- Water: Bring all drinking and washing water.
- Rubbish Bags: You must take all waste with you.
- Toilet Paper: Supplies in the drop toilet may not be regular.
- Firewood: Bring clean firewood (collection in the park is often restricted).
- Insect Repellent: Essential near the water.
- Shovel: For campfire safety.
- Recovery Gear: Recommended if rain is forecast.
Park Policies & Features
- Pet Friendly: Yes, dogs are permitted in the River Murray Reserve but must be kept under control to protect wildlife.
- Fishing: Excellent. The river bend provides deep water and snags suitable for Murray Cod and Golden Perch. A Victorian Fishing Licence is required.
- Short Walks: Walking tracks wind through the Red Gum forest along the riverbank.
- Swimming: Excellent. The large sandbar provides easy entry for swimming. Be aware of river currents, submerged logs, and cold water temperatures.
Local Amenities (Echuca & Moama)
Local Pubs
- The American Hotel: (Heygarth St, Echuca) Approx. 19km East.
- The Echuca Hotel: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 19km East.
- The Caledonian Hotel: (Hare St, Echuca) Approx. 19km East.
Places to Eat
- Echuca Curry Club: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 19km East.
- Beechworth Bakery Echuca: (High St, Echuca) Approx. 19km East.
- Port 53: (Murray Esplanade, Echuca) Approx. 19km East.
Local Attractions
- Port of Echuca Discovery Centre: (Murray Esplanade) Approx. 19km East – Historic paddle steamers.
- Great Aussie Beer Shed: (Mary Ann Rd) Approx. 22km East.
- National Holden Motor Museum: (Warren St) Approx. 19km East.
- Echuca Wharf: (Riverfront) Approx. 19km East.
- Silo Art (Rochester/Colbinabbin): Day trip distance south.
Nearest Caravan Parks
- Discovery Parks – Echuca: (Ogden St) Approx. 18km East.
- NRMA Echuca Holiday Park: (Crofton St) Approx. 19km East.
- Rich River Tourist Park: (Crescent St) Approx. 20km East.
Nearest Free Camps
- Pianta Road Camp Grounds: (Upstream) Approx. 4km East.
- Casey Bend: (Upstream) Approx. 2km East.
- Christies Beach: (Upstream) Approx. 15km East.
Nearest Dump Points
- Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St, near roundabout) Approx. 19km East.
- Moama Public Dump Point: (Meninya St) Approx. 22km East.
Nearest Petrol Stations
- United Petroleum Echuca: (Northern Hwy) Approx. 18km East.
- Caltex Woolworths Echuca: (Nish St) Approx. 19km East.
Nearest Drinking Water Resupply
- Echuca Public Dump Point: (Rose St) Tap available. Approx. 19km East.
- Lions Park (Moama): Tap available. Approx. 21km East.
Nearest Public Toilets
- On-site: Drop toilet available within the Wills Bend precinct.
- Lions Park (Echuca Village): (Simmie Rd/Looker Rd) Approx. 15km East.
Seasonal Weather Forecast for Echuca
- Summer (December – February): Hot and dry. Average highs 30°C – 33°C. The river provides essential cooling.
- Autumn (March – May): Mild and sunny. Warm days (22°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): Pleasant warming trend. Highs 19°C – 26°C. The bushland is vibrant.
