Gunalda Rest Stop – Gunalda

The Gunalda Rest Stop is a fantastic and welcoming free camp, offered through the generosity and community spirit of the historic Gunalda Hotel. Located in the small township of Gunalda on the Bruce Highway, this stopover embodies the classic tradition of the Aussie pub camp. Travellers are welcome to stay for up to 48 hours on the large, grassy area adjacent to the hotel, in return for showing their support by patronising the pub. This creates a wonderful, mutually beneficial relationship that keeps a classic country pub thriving while providing a safe, friendly, and convenient stop for the travelling community. The camping area is spacious and can accommodate a wide range of vehicles, from large motorhomes and caravans to smaller setups. While the site is best suited for self-contained vehicles, campers have access to the pub’s toilets during opening hours. The main highlight is the pub itself—a classic Queenslander with wide verandahs, cold beer, and hearty meals, offering a true taste of local hospitality. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day’s drive and chat with fellow travellers and locals. Its location makes it an ideal stop between Gympie and Maryborough, offering a more character-filled experience than a standard roadside rest area.

Site Information

• Location: At the Gunalda Hotel, on the Bruce Highway.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle types. Best for self-contained vehicles.
• Road Access: Sealed highway.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping for up to 48 hours is welcomed with patronage of the hotel.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 48 hours.
• Facilities: Toilets available in the pub during opening hours. No showers or power.
• Picnic Tables: Available at the pub.
• Potable Water: It is recommended to bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra.
• TV Reception: Good.
• Onsite Public Toilets: In the hotel (during opening hours).
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, available.
• Open Fires: Prohibited.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with considerate use.
• Number of Sites Available: Large open area that can accommodate many vehicles.
• Essentials to Bring: It is best to be self-contained. Bring cash for the pub.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash in the camping area.
• Fishing: No.
• Short Walks: Walk around the small township.

Local Amenities

Gunalda is a very small settlement. The nearest major town is Gympie (approx. 30 km south).

• Local Pubs:
  • Gunalda Hotel (onsite)
  • The Royal Hotel, Tiaro (approx. 20 km north)
  • The Australian Hotel, Gympie (approx. 30 km south)
• Places to Eat:
  • The Gunalda Hotel serves classic pub meals.
• Local Attractions:
  • The historic Gunalda Hotel itself.
  • Gateway to Fraser Island via Maryborough.
  • Gympie Gold Mining and Historical Museum.
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Tiaro Tourist Village (approx. 20 km)
  • Multiple options in Gympie.
• Next Free Camps:
  • Petrie Park, Tiaro (donation camp, approx. 20 km north)
  • Six Mile Creek Rest Area, Gympie (24hr, approx. 25 km south)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • A public dump point is available at the Gympie Showgrounds.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • A service station is located in Gunalda.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available at the Gympie Showgrounds.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available onsite at the pub during opening hours.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Gunalda enjoys a subtropical climate with warm, humid summers and mild, dry winters.