Gooramadda - Police Paddocks
Police Paddocks is a beautiful, peaceful bush camping area beside the Murray River in Gooramadda State Forest, north-east of Rutherglen.
The area features spacious grassy camping sites shaded by magnificent River Red Gums, with the river providing an attractive setting for fishing, relaxing and exploring the natural environment.
The campground has an interesting history, having once been used as a resting place for police horses during the late 1800s.
Camping Area:
Police Paddocks is a large, informal bush camping area with attractive grassy spaces beneath mature gum trees.
Features include:
- Free bush camping in a natural riverside setting.
- Grassy areas suitable for tents and other self-contained camping equipment.
- Shade provided by mature River Red Gums.
- Access to the Murray River and associated waterways.
- Opportunities for fishing and nature watching.
- Natural boat launching area.
- Vehicle access via unsealed forest roads.
Vehicle access and campsite suitability depend on weather, track conditions and the size of your camping equipment.
Historic Police Paddocks:
The area takes its name from its historical use during the late 1800s, when police horses were rested on a naturally formed island in the Murray River floodplain.
A private bridge once provided access to the island, and remnants of the former bridge have been recorded at the site.
This unusual history adds another point of interest to what is otherwise a peaceful natural bush camping area.
Fishing and River Activities:
The riverside setting makes Police Paddocks attractive for fishing, boating and enjoying the scenery.
There is a natural boat launching location, although this should not be confused with a constructed concrete boat ramp.
The waterways are not supervised swimming areas and conditions can be hazardous, with changing currents, deep water and submerged objects.
Children should be closely supervised anywhere near the river, and visitors should assess conditions carefully before entering the water.
Getting There:
Police Paddocks is situated within Gooramadda State Forest, north-east of Rutherglen.
From Rutherglen, take the Corowa-Wahgunyah Road towards Corowa. After approximately 9.3km, turn right into the signposted Up River Road.
Follow Up River Road for approximately 8.8km to Police Paddocks Road, then head north along Police Paddocks Road for approximately 3.3km to reach the forest and camping area.
Alternatively, access is possible from the east via Gooramadda Road and Up River Road.
The roads are unsealed in places and may become difficult or impassable after heavy rain or flooding. Check current conditions before travelling.
Important Information:
- This is a basic bush camping area with limited or no developed facilities.
- Bring sufficient drinking water, food and camping equipment.
- Take all rubbish home.
- Camp at least 20m from waterways in accordance with Victorian state forest camping rules.
- Be aware of the danger of falling branches from large River Red Gums, particularly during windy conditions.
- Campfires must comply with current fire restrictions and must never be left unattended.
- Do not light fires on Total Fire Ban days.
- Dogs must be kept under control and on a lead where required.
- River levels and road conditions can change after rainfall or flooding.
- Check for park closures, fire warnings and other hazards before visiting.
Opening Hours:
Access is generally available throughout the year, subject to weather, flooding and park conditions. See current Parks Victoria information and warnings.
Cost:
Free bush camping, with no advance booking normally required. See current Victorian state forest camping information.
Review:
Police Paddocks is an appealing destination for families who enjoy peaceful bush camping in a natural setting rather than a busy commercial campground.
The broad grassy areas, magnificent old River Red Gums and attractive riverside scenery create a lovely environment for spending time outdoors.
The opportunity to go fishing, watch for wildlife and relax beside the Murray River adds to the attraction, while the site's connection with the police horses of the late 1800s provides an interesting historical detail.
The main drawback is the lack of developed facilities. Families need to bring their own drinking water and camping equipment and be prepared for basic bush camping conditions.
The nearby river also requires particular care with children, especially because currents, water depths and submerged obstacles may not be obvious.
For self-sufficient families who enjoy camping away from busy caravan parks, Police Paddocks offers an attractive and inexpensive base for exploring the Rutherglen and Murray River region.
Location
Police Paddocks Road, Gooramadda 3685 View Map
Web Links
→ www.explorerutherglen.com.au/listing/the-police-paddocks/
