Curraweena Rest Area, Kidman Way, Gunderbooka NSW

A Classic Outback Stop on the Kidman Way

The Curraweena Rest Area is a quintessential outback free camping spot located on the Kidman Way, serving as a vital rest stop for travellers on the long stretch between the iconic towns of Bourke and Cobar. This is a place that truly captures the spirit of the Australian bush: vast, quiet, and beautifully rugged. It’s an ideal overnight location for self-sufficient travellers who are well-prepared and appreciate the solitude and simplicity of a genuine outback experience. Set in the heart of Gunderbooka country, the rest area is surrounded by the typical red earth and hardy vegetation of the region, offering an authentic sense of place.

As a basic but functional free camp, Curraweena provides the essentials for a safe 24-hour stay. The site is a large, unsealed area with plenty of space for all types of vehicles, from large motorhomes to campervans, ensuring you can find a private and level spot. The provision of toilets and rubbish bins is a welcome convenience in such a remote area. However, self-reliance is key here; travellers must arrive with a full supply of drinking water, food, and fuel. Mobile phone service is likely to be sparse, providing a great opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The main attractions are the incredible sunsets that set the sky ablaze with colour, followed by a breathtaking display of stars in a night sky untainted by city lights. For those journeying along the Kidman Way, the Curraweena Rest Area is a perfect, no-cost way to break the journey and soak in the unique atmosphere of the NSW outback.

Curraweena Rest Area – NSW Location Map

Name: Curraweena Rest Area
Address: Kidman Way, Gunderbooka NSW 2840
GPS Coordinates: -30.63722, 145.87265

Site Details

Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, Camper Trailers.
Road Access: Sealed highway (Kidman Way).
Site Surface: Dirt and gravel.
Camping Permitted: Yes.
Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
Number of Sites Available: Large open area with 15+ unpowered sites.
Pet Friendly: Yes.
Fishing: Not available at this location.
Short Walks: Yes, around the immediate bushland area.

Facilities

Picnic Tables: Yes.
Potable Water: No. You must bring a complete supply of drinking water.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent. A Telstra signal is your best chance.
TV Reception: Unlikely.
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.
All food and cooking equipment.
Ensure you have a full tank of fuel before leaving Bourke or Cobar.

Local Amenities (in nearby Bourke, approx. 60 km north)

Pubs

Port of Bourke Hotel: An iconic outback pub with a rich history.
The Oxford Hotel: A classic country hotel offering hearty meals.
Bourke Bowling Club: A large, modern club with a bistro and bar.

Places to Eat

Bistro meals at the town’s pubs and clubs.
Morrall’s Bakery for fresh bread, pies, and cakes.
Several cafes and takeaway options on the main street.

Local Attractions

Back O’ Bourke Exhibition & Visitor Information Centre.
Gundabooka National Park (check road conditions).
PV Jandra paddleboat cruises on the Darling River.

Caravan Parks

Kidman’s Camp.
Mitchell Caravan Park.

Next Free Camps

South of Bourke Rest Area.
Rest areas south towards Cobar.

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.