Best Camping and Caravanning Sites in Australia

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Waldron Swamp Rest Area Southbound, Princes Highway

Waldron Swamp Rest Area Southbound, Princes Highway

The Waldron Swamp Rest Area is a basic yet highly convenient stop for southbound travellers on the Princes Highway, located just north of the charming coastal town of Moruya on the NSW South Coast. This rest area offers a simple, no-fuss solution for drivers needing to manage fatigue, take a quick break, or even stay overnight. Set back from the highway and surrounded by classic Australian bushland, it provides a reasonably peaceful environment despite its proximity to the main road. Its primary advantage is its straightforward, drive-through design, which makes it easily accessible for all vehicle sizes, from standard cars to the largest caravans and motorhomes, without the hassle of reversing.

This is a primitive campsite, best suited for fully self-contained travellers. While picnic tables and rubbish bins are provided, there are no toilets or potable water facilities on site. Free overnight camping is permitted for a maximum of 24 hours, making it an excellent option for breaking up a long coastal journey. The site surface is a mix of dirt and gravel, and there is ample space for several vehicles to park comfortably. Mobile phone reception is generally reliable, allowing you to check maps or contact others. Its strategic location makes it an ideal base for a short period, with the full services and attractions of Moruya, including its famous riverside markets, just a few minutes’ drive away. For those heading south towards the Sapphire Coast, the Waldron Swamp Rest Area is a practical and safe place to rest and recharge before continuing your adventure.

Waldron Swamp Rest Area Southbound – NSW Location Map

Name: Waldron Swamp Rest Area Southbound
Address: Princes Highway, Moruya NSW 2537, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -35.86605, 150.11815

Site Information

  • Location: On the southbound side of the Princes Highway (A1), approximately 5km north of Moruya.
  • Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, including Big Rigs and Caravans.
  • Road Access: Sealed highway access directly off the southbound lanes.
  • Site Surface: Dirt and gravel.
  • Camping Permitted: Yes, free overnight camping is permitted.
  • Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
  • Picnic Tables: Yes, available.
  • Potable Water: Not available.
  • Mobile Phone Coverage: Generally good for major carriers.
  • TV Reception: Variable, may require a booster.
  • Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
  • Ullage / Dump Point: Not available onsite.
  • Drive Through: Yes, easy drive-through bay parallel to the highway.
  • Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided.
  • Open Fires: Not permitted. Use contained cooking appliances and be aware of fire bans.
  • Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of other users.
  • Number of Sites Available: Unmarked, space for approximately 10-15 vehicles.
  • Essentials to Bring: All drinking water, own toilet facilities, power source.
  • Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash. Please clean up after them.
  • Fishing: Excellent fishing opportunities in the nearby Moruya River.
  • Short Walks: Informal walks in the surrounding bushland area.

Local Amenities

Pubs & Eateries

  • Adelaide Hotel, Moruya: Approximately 6 km south in Moruya.
  • Moruya Waterfront Hotel Motel: Approximately 6 km south in Moruya.
  • Tomakin Sports & Social Club: Approximately 12 km east, towards the coast.
  • A wide variety of cafes, bakeries and restaurants are located in Moruya (approx. 6km).

Local Attractions

  • Moruya Country Markets (Saturdays): Approximately 6 km south in Moruya.
  • Moruya Heads Beach & Dolphin Lookout: Approximately 12 km away.
  • Mogo Wildlife Park: Approximately 15 km north.

Caravanning & Camping Supplies

  • Nearest Caravan Parks: Several options in and around Moruya (approx. 6-8 km).
  • Next Free Camps: Various smaller rest areas north and south on the Princes Highway.
  • Nearest Dump Points: North Head Campground (Moruya) or BIG4 Moruya.
  • Nearest Petrol Station: Multiple service stations in Moruya (approx. 6 km).
  • Drinking Water Resupply: Service stations or public parks in Moruya.
  • Nearest Public Toilets: Moruya Town Centre (Riverside Park).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Eurobodalla Shire, including Moruya, enjoys a temperate coastal climate. Summers are typically warm to hot, with refreshing afternoon sea breezes. Winters are cool and mild, often with crisp, sunny days perfect for exploring. Autumn and Spring are generally the most pleasant times to visit, with warm days and mild evenings. The region receives rainfall throughout the year, with a tendency for heavier falls in late summer and early autumn. It’s a beautiful destination year-round, but packing layers is always a good idea to accommodate for changing coastal conditions.

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