Water activities

Camerons Bend in Warby-Ovens National Park

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    Water activities

    Warby-Ovens National Park

    The still waters, shady banks and sandy beaches of the Ovens River provide great opportunities for fun in the water.

    There are many beautiful spots to swim in the Ovens River and its wetlands, but please exercise caution and actively supervise children in or near water.

    The maze of channels and wetlands in the lower reaches of the river offer some of the best still water canoeing in the state. With care, power boats can explore the river for several kilometres upstream from Camerons Bend. 

    Boat ramps are located at the Bundalong Day Visitor Area and Camerons Bend, which offer all-year round access. Check www.transportsafety.vic.gov.au to ensure you have the appropriate boat driving licence and vessel registration.

    There are many good spots for both shore and boat-based fishing. Possible catches include Murray Cod, Trout, Golden Perch and Redfin. For information on Victorian recreational fishing licences, seasonal restrictions and protected species, and the Victorian Recreational Fishing Guide visit www.vfa.vic.gov.au. 

    Things to do in the area

     
    The reflection of the sky in the Ovens River wetlands in the Warby-Ovens National Park

    Camping in Warby-Ovens

    Choose from a range of unpowered camping options, including Wenham's Camp, Killawarra Forest Camp and dispersed bush camping along the Ovens River. No fees or bookings are required. Campers must be self-sufficient and bring their own firewood and drinking water.
    A boardwalk in the Warby-Ovens National Park

    Walking in Warby-Ovens

    Explore Warby Ranges and Killawarra Forest with a variety of walks along designated tracks, ranging in length and difficulty. There are no defined walking tracks along the Ovens River, but visitors can explore the River Red Gum forests by following the vehicle tracks and riverbanks. A GPS or topographic map and compass is recommended.
    A picturesque photo of the stone hut near the Horn at Mt Buffalo.

    Mount Buffalo National Park

    Sheer cliffs, granite tors, waterfalls and big views make Mount Buffalo a must-see alpine retreat

    How to get there

    Water activities

    Water activities

    Facilities

    Boat Ramp

    Water activities

    Escape from the heat of summer along the Ovens River and enjoy some swimming, fishing, canoeing or boating.

    Need to know

    Water activities

    Change of Conditions

    Nature being nature, sometimes conditions can change at short notice. It’s a good idea to check this page ahead of your visit for any updates.

    • Puzzle Bend (Warby-Ovens National Park, Ovens River Heritage River)

      Puzzle Bend Bridge Closure

      The Puzzle Bend bridge within Warby-Ovens National Park is now closed to all traffic, including pedestrians, for safety reasons. This bridge has been closed to vehicle traffic for several years. 

      Alternative camping spots on the Ovens River, in the Warby-Ovens National Park, can be found nearby at Camerons, Robinsons, Mcquades and Lavis Bends. 

    • Notices Affecting Multiple Sites

      Area closure due to track conditions

      Due to track conditions, the following tracks are temporarily closed within the Warby-Ovens National Park: 


      Hills Track, Wilsons Track, Boundary Track, Frosts Crossing Track, Ovens Track, Nicklaus Track and Yellow Creek Track.


      Alternative Ovens River campsites can be found nearby at Mclaughlins Bend or Camerons Bend. Please drive with caution. 

      Weather pending, these tracks will re-open on Friday the 20th of May.

    • Notices Affecting Multiple Parks

      Japanese encephalitis in northern Victoria

      Japanese encephalitis in northern Victoria
      Japanese encephalitis (JE) has recently been detected in Victoria, with increased risk in the northern and north-west of Victoria and along the Murray River. This virus is spread to humans through mosquito bites and may cause a rare and potentially life-threatening infection of the brain. 
       
      For information about how to protect yourself and your loved ones from mosquito bites before you head outdoors, visit the Beat the Bite- Better Health Website or see our visitor safety tips. 

      Seasonal road closures 2022

      Some roads in this park are subject to seasonal road closures. Seasonal road closures generally operate from after the long weekend in June through to the end of October, but may be extended due to seasonal conditions. Visit the seasonal road closures page for maps and more information.

    Similar water activities

     
    Canoeing

    Canoeing and Kayaking

    Canoeing and kayaking are great ways to explore beautiful waterways. Enjoy the tranquility and spot wildlife that hikers don’t normally see.
    Two friends fish off the back a boat on a misty morning on Lake Eildon.

    Fishing

    In quiet lakes and gently flowing rivers, in the pounding surf or in the depths beneath your boat – the waters of Victoria’s parks and reserves offer some prize catches.
    Two friends go for a swim in Lake Elusive in Croajingolong National Park.

    Freshwater swimming

    Take a cool, invigorating dip in fresh waterholes, streams and lakes. Be sure to observe safety signs and take caution when swimming in nature.
    A woman playfully splashing a friend in another canoe with her paddle on the Glenelg River

    Glenelg River Canoe Trail

    The Glenelg River offers excellent opportunities for flat water canoeing over the 75kms from Dartmoor to its mouth near Nelson. For much of its distance the river flows through the Lower Glenelg National Park, enabling enthusiasts to observe wildlife in its natural environment.
    Two hikers reach the summit of Mount Nelse at Bogong High Plains
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