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20 Mile Gums Rest Area
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20 Mile Gums Rest Area, Mid Western Hwy, Hay NSW

20 Mile Gums Rest Area, Mid Western Hwy, Hay NSW

A Shady Haven on the Road from Hay

The 20 Mile Gums Rest Area is a charming and peaceful free camping spot located on the Mid Western Highway, approximately 30 kilometres east of the historic town of Hay. As its name suggests, the site is distinguished by a collection of beautiful, mature gum trees that provide welcome shade and a pleasant, natural atmosphere—a notable feature in the vast, open landscape of the Riverina plains. This rest area is a favourite among self-contained travellers looking for a simple, quiet, and accessible place to spend the night without the bustle of a town or caravan park. It serves as an excellent first stop after leaving Hay or a final resting place before arriving in town from the east.

The site is a well-maintained, unsealed area set back from the highway, which helps to minimise road noise. It is spacious enough to accommodate several caravans, motorhomes, or camper trailers, with plenty of room to find your own spot. The facilities are basic, with picnic tables and rubbish bins provided, catering to the needs of self-sufficient campers who come prepared with their own water and toilet amenities. The real appeal of 20 Mile Gums is its tranquillity and classic bush setting. It’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy the sounds of the local birdlife, and witness a spectacular, unobstructed sunset over the plains. For those travelling the Mid Western Highway and seeking a simple, safe, and scenic spot for a 24-hour break, this rest area is an excellent and highly-regarded choice.

20 Mile Gums Rest Area – NSW Location Map

  • Name: 20 Mile Gums Rest Area
  • Address: Mid Western Hwy, Hay NSW 2711
  • GPS Coordinates: -34.33237, 145.06645

Site Details

  • Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Camper Trailers.
  • Road Access: Sealed highway (Mid Western Highway).
  • Site Surface: Dirt and gravel.
  • Camping Permitted: Yes.
  • Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
  • Number of Sites Available: Approximately 10-15 unpowered sites.
  • Pet Friendly: Yes.
  • Fishing: Not available at this location.
  • Short Walks: Yes, around the spacious rest area and into the adjacent bushland.

Facilities

  • Picnic Tables: No.
  • Potable Water: No. You must bring your own complete supply.
  • Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra; can be patchy for other carriers.
  • TV Reception: Good.
  • Onsite Public Toilets: No. Nearest toilets are in Hay.
  • Rubbish Bins: No.
  • Open Fires: Permitted in designated areas when restrictions allow. Bring your own firewood.
  • Generator Use: Permitted, with courtesy to other campers.

Essentials to Bring

  • A full supply of drinking water.
  • Your own toilet facilities as none are provided on site.
  • Firewood if you plan on having a campfire.

Local Amenities (in nearby Hay, approx. 30 km west)

Pubs

  • The Commercial Hotel Hay: A classic Aussie pub with a popular bistro.
  • The Riverina Hotel: Another great option for a hearty meal and cold drink.
  • Hay Services Club: A large club offering extensive dining and bar facilities.

Places to Eat

  • Bistro dining at the local hotels and clubs in Hay.
  • Jappalou Cafe in Hay for coffee and light meals.
  • Several bakeries and takeaway shops on the main street in Hay.

Local Attractions

  • Shear Outback – The Australian Shearers Hall of Fame.
  • The Murrumbidgee River at Sandy Point Beach.
  • Bishop’s Lodge Historic House and Heritage Rose Garden.

Caravan Parks

  • Hay Plains Holiday Park.
  • Hay Riverside Caravan Park.

Next Free Camps

  • Rest areas west towards Hay.
  • Rest areas east towards Griffith.

Services

  • Nearest Dump Point: Located at the Hay Visitor Information Centre.
  • Nearest Petrol Station: Numerous service stations are available in Hay.
  • Drinking Water Resupply: Available at the Hay Visitor Information Centre.
  • Public Toilets: Available in public parks in Hay.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Riverina Region

  • Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching the high 30s.
  • Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, sunny days and mild nights make this the best time to visit.
  • Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool to mild days with very cold nights and heavy frosts.
  • Spring (Sep-Nov): Conditions are warm and pleasant, perfect for enjoying the outdoors.

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