The Murray is a long river, and that’s the appeal — you can dip into it almost anywhere and find flat roads, big skies and a riverside park to settle into. These three towns are the standout bases, set out here downstream from the upper river to the sunny north-west. Travel the lot over a week or build a long weekend around whichever stretch is nearest you.

What’s the route along the river?

Following the Murray downstream, the three towns line up east to west. Here’s the shape of the trip:

Where can you stay with a caravan on the Murray?

All three towns have powered caravan parks, and many sit right on the river. Albury-Wodonga, Echuca and Mildura are all well set up for vans, with good facilities and easy access to town. Winter is quieter along the river, so availability is generally good — but book ahead around the July school holidays.

Is the drive flat and easy for towing?

Yes. The Murray corridor is flat and the routes between these towns are sealed highways, which makes for relaxed towing. The one thing to plan for is distance: the river is long, so the legs between these towns are bigger than a coastal trip — expect a solid travel day between some stops, and plan your fuel and rest breaks accordingly. There’s no need to leave the sealed road anywhere on this route.

What can you do at each stop?

Albury-Wodonga opens the trip with the upper river — walks along the banks, Lake Hume nearby and a couple of well-regarded regional galleries in town. Echuca is the historic heart: the Port of Echuca, paddle-steamers still working the river, and a riverboat precinct that’s easy to spend a day in. Mildura closes it out with the warmest, sunniest winter weather of the three, river cruises, and a surrounding region known for its citrus, food and wine — a relaxed place to base yourself for a few days.

When’s the best time to go in winter?

Winter suits the river well, with the north-west around Mildura noticeably milder and sunnier than the southern states. Inland mornings can be cold and foggy, so pack warm layers and good bedding for the evenings, the same winter basics that make any cold-weather trip comfortable. Days, though, are typically clear and easy for being outdoors along the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get powered riverside sites along the Murray?

Yes — Albury-Wodonga, Echuca and Mildura all have powered caravan parks, many right on the river. Book ahead in the July school holidays.

How far apart are the towns?

They’re spread along a long river, so the legs are bigger than a coastal trip. Plan for a solid travel day between some stops.

Is it good in winter?

Yes — Mildura in particular is mild and sunny. Inland mornings can be cold and foggy, so pack warm bedding and layers.

Is the driving easy for a caravan?

The Murray corridor is flat and sealed. Just plan your fuel and rest stops on the longer legs.

Do you need to go off sealed roads?

No — all three towns and their main attractions are reachable on sealed roads