BIG4 Riverside Swan Hill

We had a luxury riverside cabin at Big4 riverside, with the little Murray River just metres in front of the balcony. The enclosed balcony was great for leaving our things outside and locking them away. There was a barbecue and table on the veranda, plus another table and seating looking over the water. The cabin was clean and modern, with plenty of air conditioners and fans, which we appreciated in the hot weather. Late check-in was handled well, and some nice places were within walking distance, including the pioneer settlement, though unfortunately we didn’t get to see it before leaving. We had a wonderful time, and it was well worth the money.

The park grounds were beautifully cared for, and the adjoining playground and picnic area were among the best we’ve seen, kept in immaculate condition. From our Riverfront powered site we watched paddle steamers pass a couple of times, and it was very quiet. Town’s pubs, clubs and eateries are only about a 5-10 minute walk away. We’ll visit again and recommend it.

I paid $54 a night as a solo traveller, which seemed steep for a location with little to do or see, even though the facilities were decent and what I’d expect at a Big4 park. At 10pm the lights switched off automatically while I was finishing dinner, so I had to wash up and finish eating by flashlight. On my last day, heavy rain delayed packing up until after 10, and an angry woman came ten minutes later to kick me out as though I’d committed a crime. I had to park outside and walk across the partly flooded park to shower, getting completely soaked. I’ve never had this kind of experience at a Big4 park. They should at least show decent respect.

The caravan park was spacious, clean, had great amenities and was close to town. It was very popular, and we had the time of our lives there over two very hot days. We were lucky to see the " Melbourne" paddle boat steamer head down the Murray for the first time in 60 years from Mildura, now currently in Koondrook, a once in a lifetime opportunity. There was also a vintage car event, with over 200 beautifully restored vehicles from around the 1900s chugging past our van and touring swan hill. We followed the wheat silo trail from lake boga to Woomalang through the northern Mallee wheat belt in Victoria. The Andrew Peace vineyard was excellent, and exports 96% of its wines overseas. Lovely nectarine and table grape farms too. There’s still water in some channels and dams, though they’re slowly drying up.