Underbool Rest Area – Mallee Highway Free Camping Stop VIC

Positioned perfectly on the Mallee Highway, the Underbool Rest Area is an essential stop for travellers exploring the remote and beautiful landscapes of northwestern Victoria. This spacious, free-of-charge rest stop is located right in the small township of Underbool, offering both convenience and a sense of security. It serves not only as a place for a quick break from the long drives between Adelaide and Melbourne but also as a popular, informal base camp for visitors heading to the renowned Pink Lakes of the Murray-Sunset National Park, located just a short drive away. Its ease of access and suitability for all vehicle types make it a highly practical option for road-trippers.

The site itself is a large, level area with a gravel and dirt surface, set back slightly from the highway to reduce road noise. It can comfortably accommodate a significant number of vehicles, from the largest big rigs and fifth-wheelers down to small campervans and cars. The facilities are basic but functional, providing the core necessities for a roadside stop. These include a toilet block, several rubbish bins to help keep the area tidy, and a covered picnic table for a shaded lunch break. As it is a designated rest area, there is no potable water or power available, meaning all visitors must be self-sufficient. However, the town of Underbool is literally at your doorstep, with a classic country pub, a general store for basic supplies, and a petrol station all within easy walking distance. For those looking for a simple, convenient, and free place to stay while exploring the Mallee, the Underbool Rest Area is an excellent and well-utilised community resource.

Site Information

• Name: Underbool Rest Area
• Address: Mallee Highway, Underbool VIC 3509, Australia

• GPS Coordinates: -35.169694, 141.809858

• Website: Not available

Rest Area Details

• Location: On the Mallee Highway (B12) within the town of Underbool.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle sizes, including big rigs and large caravans.
• Road Access: Sealed highway.
• Site Surface: Gravel and packed earth.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, overnight stays are generally accepted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 24-48 hours suggested.
• Facilities: Toilets, covered picnic table.
• Potable Water: Not available. Must be self-sufficient.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra; may be limited for other carriers.
• TV Reception: Fair to good.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Not permitted. Prohibited during fire ban seasons.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of others, especially at night.
• Number of Sites Available: Unmarked, large open area.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, food, and insect repellent.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets must remain on a leash.
• Fishing: Not available.
• Short Walks: Easy walk through the main street of Underbool.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Underbool Hotel: Approx. 300 m
  • Murrayville Hotel: Approx. 55 km
  • Ouyen’s Victoria Hotel: Approx. 58 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Underbool Hotel (Pub Meals): Approx. 300 m
  • Underbool General Store (Takeaway): Approx. 400 m
• Local Attractions:
  • Pink Lakes (Lake Crosbie, Murray-Sunset NP): Approx. 15 km
  • The Big Mallee Root (Ouyen): Approx. 58 km
  • Underbool Linga Memorial Hall: Approx. 400 m
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Underbool Caravan Park: Approx. 1 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Murrayville Rest Area: Approx. 55 km west
  • Lake Crosbie Campground (within National Park, fees apply): Approx. 15 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Underbool Caravan Park (check for public access/fees): Approx. 1 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Underbool General Store: Approx. 400 m
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Check with the Underbool General Store or local park for a public tap.
• Public Toilets (offsite):
  • Located within the town park/recreation reserve.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry conditions prevail. Temperatures often soar above 35°C. High fire danger period.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, sunny days and cool nights make for ideal travelling weather. Averages range from 10°C to 26°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold days and nights, with temperatures often dropping to near freezing. Average temperatures are between 4°C and 16°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild to warm days. The best time for wildflowers in the national park. Temperatures average 9°C to 24°C.