Beemery Rest Area, Kamilaroi Hwy, Bourke NSW
A Tranquil Bush Camp Between Bourke and Brewarrina
The Beemery Rest Area is a large and peaceful free camping spot located on the Kamilaroi Highway in the heart of outback New South Wales. Positioned roughly halfway between the historic towns of Bourke and Brewarrina, it offers a perfect location to break the long journey and immerse yourself in the serene bushland environment. This is a classic outback rest stop, ideal for fully self-contained travellers who appreciate space, quiet, and simplicity. It’s set well back from the highway, ensuring that traffic noise is minimal, allowing for a restful night’s sleep under a canopy of brilliant stars.
The site itself is a spacious, unsealed area with plenty of level ground, making it suitable for all types of vehicles, including big rigs, caravans, and motorhomes. The open layout means you can easily find a private spot away from other campers. Basic facilities such as toilets, picnic tables, and rubbish bins are provided, but visitors must be entirely self-sufficient in terms of water, power, and other supplies. Its location between two major service towns makes it easy to stock up before arriving. The surrounding bushland provides opportunities for short walks and is a great place to let pets have a supervised run. For those travelling the Kamilaroi Highway and looking for a safe, clean, and tranquil place to spend 24 hours without any cost, the Beemery Rest Area is an excellent and reliable choice.
Beemery Rest Area – NSW Location Map
- Name: Beemery Rest Area
- Address: Kamilaroi Hwy, Bourke NSW 2840
- GPS Coordinates: -30.00478, 146.35932
Site Details
- Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, Camper Trailers, Tents.
- Road Access: Sealed highway (Kamilaroi Highway).
- Site Surface: Dirt and gravel.
- Camping Permitted: Yes.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
- Number of Sites Available: Large open area, 20+ unpowered sites.
- Pet Friendly: Yes.
- Fishing: Not available at this location.
- Short Walks: Yes, around the spacious rest area and surrounding bush.
Facilities
- Picnic Tables: Yes (sheltered).
- Potable Water: No. You must bring your own complete supply.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited. A signal for Telstra may be possible, but is not guaranteed.
- TV Reception: Poor to non-existent.
- Onsite Public Toilets: No.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes.
- Open Fires: Permitted in designated areas when restrictions are not in place. Bring your own firewood.
- Generator Use: Permitted, with courtesy to other campers.
Essentials to Bring
- A full supply of drinking water.
- All food, cooking supplies, and firewood.
- Ensure you have adequate fuel before leaving Bourke or Brewarrina.
Local Amenities (in nearby Bourke, approx. 45 km west)
Pubs
- Port of Bourke Hotel: An iconic pub with a rich history and cold beer.
- The Oxford Hotel: A classic country pub offering meals and accommodation.
- Bourke Bowling Club: A large club with dining, bar, and entertainment facilities.
Places to Eat
- Bistro meals at the local pubs and clubs.
- Morrall’s Bakery for pies and pastries.
- Various cafes and takeaway shops along the main street.
Local Attractions
- Back O’ Bourke Exhibition & Visitor Information Centre.
- PV Jandra paddleboat cruises on the Darling River.
- Mount Oxley (4WD access required).
Caravan Parks
- Kidman’s Camp.
- Mitchell Caravan Park.
Next Free Camps
- South of Bourke Rest Area (Kidman Way).
- Tarrion Creek Stopping Bay (closer to Brewarrina).
Services
- Nearest Dump Point: Available at commercial caravan parks in Bourke (fee may apply).
- Nearest Petrol Station: Multiple service stations in Bourke.
- Drinking Water Resupply: Check at the Back O’ Bourke Visitor Information Centre.
- Public Toilets: On-site.
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Outback NSW
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Very hot and often humid, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C. High chance of thunderstorms.
- Autumn (Mar-May): The premium travel season, with warm, sunny days and pleasant nights.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Mild, sunny days with cold nights and frosts.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Conditions are warm and generally pleasant for travel, but can heat up quickly.