Abbotts Tank Rest Area, Sturt Hwy, Balranald NSW

A Spacious and Practical Stop in the Riverina

Abbotts Tank Rest Area is a large, convenient, and popular free camping spot located on the Sturt Highway in the vast plains of the Riverina region in New South Wales. Positioned between the major towns of Hay and Balranald, it serves as a vital fatigue management stop for the thousands of travellers and truck drivers who use this key transport corridor connecting Sydney and Adelaide. While it’s a simple and functional rest area, its sheer size and easy access make it an excellent choice for a no-fuss, 24-hour overnight stay for fully self-contained campers.

The site is a very large, open, unsealed area set well back from the highway, which helps to minimise traffic noise. The expansive grounds mean there is always plenty of room to find a private and level spot, even for the biggest rigs. The facilities are basic but well-maintained, including toilets, rubbish bins, and sheltered picnic tables, making it a comfortable place for a lunch break or an overnight rest. As is standard for most highway rest areas, there is no potable water available, so it is essential for visitors to bring their own complete supply. Its proximity to Balranald, approximately 60 kilometres to the west, allows travellers to easily plan their trip to ensure they are fully stocked with fuel, food, and water before arriving. For those seeking a safe, spacious, and cost-free place to break their journey on the Sturt Highway, Abbotts Tank Rest Area is a reliable and highly practical option.

Abbotts Tank Rest Area – NSW Location Map

Name: Abbotts Tank Rest Area
Address: Sturt Hwy, Balranald NSW 2715
GPS Coordinates: -34.54072, 142.99697

Site Details

Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, Camper Trailers.
Road Access: Sealed highway (Sturt Highway).
Site Surface: Dirt and gravel.
Camping Permitted: Yes.
Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
Number of Sites Available: Very large area with 30+ unpowered sites.
Pet Friendly: Yes.
Fishing: Not available at this location.
Short Walks: Yes, around the very spacious rest area grounds.

Facilities

Picnic Tables: Yes
Potable Water: No. You must bring your own complete supply.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra, may be patchy for other carriers.
TV Reception: Good.
Onsite Public Toilets: No.
Rubbish Bins: Yes.
Open Fires: Prohibited.
Generator Use: Permitted, with courtesy to other campers.

Essentials to Bring

A full supply of drinking water.
Insect repellent, particularly in the warmer months.
Ensure you have adequate fuel to reach the next major town.

Local Amenities (in nearby Balranald, approx. 60 km west)

Pubs

Home Hotel Balranald: A classic country pub with a friendly atmosphere.
Shamrock Hotel Balranald: Known for its good meals and historic building.
Balranald Ex-Services Club: A large club offering bistro dining, bars, and entertainment.

Places to Eat

Bistro dining at the local hotels and club.
Balranald Bakery for pies, pastries, and coffee.
Several cafes and takeaway food shops on the main street.

Local Attractions

The Murrumbidgee River for fishing and relaxation.
Yanga National Park and the historic Yanga Woolshed.
Balranald Discovery Centre.

Caravan Parks

Balranald Riverside Caravan Park.
Balranald Caravan Park.

Next Free Camps

Meilman East Rest Area: Approximately 6 km west.
Rest areas east towards Hay.

Services

Nearest Dump Point: Located behind the Theatre Royal in Balranald.
Nearest Petrol Station: Several service stations are available in Balranald.
Drinking Water Resupply: Available at the Balranald Visitor Information Centre.
Public Toilets: On-site.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Riverina Region

Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching the high 30s.
Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, sunny days and mild nights make this an ideal time to visit.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool to mild days with cold nights and frequent frosts.
Spring (Sep-Nov): Conditions are warm and generally pleasant, perfect for enjoying the outdoors.