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Thackaringa Hills Rest Area, Barrier Hwy, Broken Hill NSW

Scenic Views and a Glimpse into Outback History

Nestled amongst the rugged, ancient landscape of the Barrier Ranges, the Thackaringa Hills Rest Area offers travellers a picturesque and serene free camping spot on the western approach to Broken Hill. Located just a short drive from the South Australian border, this rest area is renowned for its stunning views over the surrounding hills and vast, open plains. It’s a place that truly captures the essence of the Australian outback, with its distinctive red earth, hardy vegetation, and an overwhelming sense of space. For those heading towards Broken Hill or making their final stop before leaving NSW, Thackaringa provides a tranquil setting to rest and soak in the remarkable scenery.

The rest area itself is a large, unsealed site, providing ample room for all types of vehicles to spread out and find a comfortable spot. Its elevated position offers a slight vantage point, perfect for watching the spectacular outback sunsets that set the hills ablaze with colour. The site is close to the historic (and now largely abandoned) Thackaringa settlement, a former railway siding and silver mining area, adding a layer of historical interest to the location. While facilities are basic, with toilets and picnic tables provided, the real drawcard is the natural beauty and solitude. As a self-sufficient camping spot, it is essential to arrive with all necessary supplies, including water. For a peaceful night under a blanket of stars, with a backdrop of geologically rich and visually stunning hills, the Thackaringa Hills Rest Area is an exceptional choice.

Thackaringa Hills Rest Area – NSW Map

Name: Thackaringa Hills Rest Area
Address: Barrier Hwy, Broken Hill NSW 2880
GPS Coordinates: -32.04545, 141.12795

Site Details

Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, Camper Trailers, Tents.
Road Access: Sealed highway (Barrier Highway).
Site Surface: Dirt and gravel.
Camping Permitted: Yes.
Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
Number of Sites Available: Large open area, 25+ unpowered sites.
Pet Friendly: Yes.
Fishing: Not available.
Short Walks: Excellent opportunities for short walks into the surrounding hills.

Facilities

Picnic Tables: Yes (sheltered).
Potable Water: No. You must bring all your own water.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra, can be unreliable for others.
TV Reception: Variable.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
Rubbish Bins: Yes.
Open Fires: Prohibited.
Generator Use: Permitted, with courtesy to other campers.

Essentials to Bring

A full supply of drinking water and a full tank of fuel from Broken Hill.
All food and cooking supplies.
Sturdy footwear for exploring the rocky terrain.

Local Amenities (in Broken Hill, approx. 37km east)

Pubs

The Palace Hotel: An iconic pub famous from ‘Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’.
The Tydvil Hotel: A classic, friendly local pub with a great atmosphere.
The Black Lion Inn: Known for its quality meals and historic charm.

Places to Eat

Bells Milk Bar: Step back in time at this iconic 1950s-style milk bar.
Broken Hill Musicians Club: A large club offering bistro-style meals.
A wide variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants throughout the city.

Local Attractions

Living Desert & Sculptures Symposium.
Pro Hart Gallery and other art galleries.
Line of Lode Miners Memorial and Visitor Centre.

Caravan Parks

Broken Hill Tourist Park.
Lake View Caravan Park.

Next Free Camps

West Broken Hill Rest Area: A few kilometres east.
Numerous rest areas across the border into South Australia.

Services

Nearest Dump Point: Available at commercial caravan parks in Broken Hill (a fee may apply).
Nearest Petrol Station: Multiple major service stations in Broken Hill.
Drinking Water Resupply: At the Broken Hill Visitor Information Centre.
Public Toilets: On-site.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Far West NSW

Summer (Dec-Feb): Extremely hot and dry. Temperatures regularly exceed 40°C, so travel with extra water and caution.
Autumn (Mar-May): The ideal travel season, with warm, sunny days and cool, pleasant nights.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Mild, clear days with very cold nights and heavy frosts.
Spring (Sep-Nov): Conditions are warm and generally pleasant for travel.