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.

    • Warby-Ovens National Park

      Puzzle Bend Bridge


      Puzzle Bend Bridge within Warby -Ovens National Park is now closed to all traffic, including pedestrians, for safety reasons. This bridge has been ben closed to vehicle traffic for several years. There are many alternative bends of the Ovens River that can be accessed nearby in the park.
       

    • Notices Affecting Multiple Parks

      Take care while driving on wet tracks

      This summer weather is predicted to be wet. Roads and tracks are easily damaged during wet weather and can only be repaired once the weather clears up and the roads are well dried out. When visiting parks keep an eye out for temporary track closures and if it’s raining or the track looks soft find an alternative route.
       
      When driving your car or four-wheel drive in a park keep in mind these basic tips:
      -     stay off wet tracks or recently graded roads
      -     drive only on formed roads
      -     take notice of signage and only use roads that are open to the public and safe to do so
      -     avoid wheel spin and churning up track surfaces
      -     remove fallen trees or limbs from roads; don’t create new tracks by driving around them

    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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