Camping near Mildura
This small city on the banks of the Murray River is near national parks, orchards, and vineyards.
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Camping near Mildura guide
Overview
Lying at the heart of an agricultural oasis of citrus and wine producers in Victoria’s food bowl, Mildura is closer to South Australia’s capital, Adelaide, than it is to Melbourne. This regional city of leafy tree-lined streets houses grand historic buildings overlooking riverside parklands, where paddle steamers and houseboats cruise sedately nearby on the Murray River. Off the water, a historic trail traces the region’s rise in fortunes from the 1800s through prosperous times with restored architectural masterpieces like Rio Vista House and Mildura Wharf’s popular attractions. Campsites are available at holiday parks in and around Mildura, as well as at low-key private campsites and camping grounds, some in pretty locations on the Murray River.
Where to go
Cruise the mighty Murray River
The finest view of Mildura is best enjoyed from the Murray River—and there are plenty of options to explore this famous waterway. Book a cruise on a paddle steamer, whether for a few hours or a few days, or hire a self-drive, family-friendly houseboat for a deluxe river getaway where tree-lined banks create tranquil mooring spots. Paddle a kayak or SUP board beside camping areas around Kings Billabong Park, where campsites come with wildlife and bird-spotting opportunities. If you have your own boat, launch from any of the many boat ramps along the river, including in Mildura, Nicholls Point, and Merbein.
Red Cliffs
Named after the ochre-hued cliffs lining the Murray River that create mesmerising reflections in the still waters, the town of Red Cliffs rises from a fertile river plain dotted with thriving vineyards and citrus farms. Area caravan parks are typically pet-friendly with unpowered sites and tent campsites, plus sometimes a swimming pool shaded by leafy river gums with abundant birdlife. History abounds with the Red Cliffs Historical Steam Railway, along with the only Howitzer cannon on display anywhere in the world. An added bonus? The chance to see “Big Lizzie,” a mammoth tractor built to cart wool from New South Wales outback stations onto waiting paddle steamers.
Wentworth
About 30 km north of Mildura, the historic port town of Wentworth lies just across the NSW border at the junction of the Murray and Darling rivers. Once at the centre of Australia’s busiest waterway, these days Wentworth is a laid-back town brimming with all the charm of yesteryear. Visit the World Heritage-listed Mungo National Park to see its significant Aboriginal history, or start the epic Darling River Run road trip, which follows the Darling River for almost 950 km through Bourke and beyond.
When to go
Summer is the peak season in the Mallee region, home to a Mediterranean climate of dry summers and mild winters. Mildura campsites and holiday parks are very popular during the Christmas holiday period, so if you’re looking for quieter times, visit after the Australia Day long weekend in January once school holidays have finished.
Know before you go
- Mildura is a convenient city to pick up food and restock provisions with several camping and outdoor supply stores.
- At the crossroads of three Australian states, Mildura is easily reached from South Australia, NSW, and Victoria.
- Book ahead for campsites as the Mildura region can get busy, particularly during summer holidays or during long weekends.
- Mildura’s Visitor Information Centre has local insights into the best time to visit state forests and national parks, plus or where to find the best wifi connection.