Scrubby Creek Rest Area, Princes Highway

Scrubby Creek Rest Area is a basic yet highly convenient free camping spot located on the Princes Highway in the far south of New South Wales. Nestled within the tranquil surrounds of the East Boyd State Forest, this small rest area provides a welcome and peaceful break for travellers navigating the journey between the Victorian border and the coastal hub of Eden. While it is a primitive site, its appeal lies in its simplicity and seclusion, offering a genuine bush camping experience just metres from the main highway. It is an ideal stop for driver reviver breaks or for fully self-contained travellers looking for a no-cost overnight stay.

The rest area features a straightforward, sealed drive-through bay that can accommodate a limited number of vehicles, including caravans and motorhomes. Given its compact size, it is best suited for those who arrive earlier in the day to secure a spot. It’s important to note that this is a basic facility with no toilets, potable water, or power, meaning visitors must have their own amenities and be prepared to leave no trace. The site does provide a picnic table and rubbish bins, making it suitable for a lunch stop. Its strategic location, approximately 20 kilometres south of Eden, means that all essential supplies, from groceries and fuel to cafes and pubs, are only a short drive away. This proximity to Eden also makes it a viable base for exploring the magnificent natural attractions of the Sapphire Coast, including the rugged coastline of the Beowa National Park.

Scrubby Creek Rest Area – NSW Location Map

Name: Scrubby Creek Rest Area
Address: Princes Highway, Narrabarba NSW 2551, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -37.22237, 149.83035

Site Information

Location: On the Princes Highway (A1), approximately 20km south of Eden in the East Boyd State Forest.
Site Suitable For: Best suited for smaller to medium-sized self-contained vehicles. Larger rigs may find it tight.
Road Access: Sealed highway access.
Site Surface: Sealed (asphalt).
Camping Permitted: Yes, free overnight camping is permitted.
Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
Picnic Tables: Yes, one table is available.
Potable Water: Not available.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Can be patchy. A booster may be required.
TV Reception: Variable due to the forested, remote location.
Onsite Public Toilets: Not available. Must be self-contained.
Ullage / Dump Point: Not available onsite.
Drive Through: Yes, a small sealed loop.
Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided.
Open Fires: Strictly not permitted.
Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of the small space and other users.
Number of Sites Available: Unmarked, very limited space for 2-3 vans.
Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, own toilet facilities, power source.
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
Fishing: Nearby coastal and estuary fishing opportunities around the Eden area.
Short Walks: Informal walks into the surrounding East Boyd State Forest.

Local Amenities

Pubs & Eateries

Great Southern Hotel: Approximately 20 km north in Eden.
Hotel Australasia: Approximately 20 km north in Eden.
Eden Fishermen’s Recreation Club: Approximately 21 km north in Eden.
A full range of cafes, takeaways, and restaurants are available in Eden.

Local Attractions

Eden Killer Whale Museum: Approximately 21 km north in Eden.
Beowa National Park (formerly Ben Boyd National Park): Various access points are a short drive from the rest area.
Boydtown & the Seahorse Inn: Approximately 14 km north.

Caravanning & Camping Supplies

Nearest Caravan Parks: Multiple caravan parks are located in and around Eden (approx. 20 km).
Next Free Camps: Wallagaraugh River Rest Area further south, or other small stops north towards Merimbula.
Nearest Dump Points: Public dump point in Eden, or at various caravan parks for a fee.
Nearest Petrol Station: Several service stations are located in Eden (approx. 20 km).
Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps at parks or service stations in Eden.
Nearest Public Toilets: Located in Eden (approx. 20 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The far South Coast of NSW has a temperate maritime climate. Summers are typically warm and pleasant, with sea breezes often moderating hotter days. Winters are cool and can be brisk, especially at night, but are often accompanied by clear, sunny skies. Spring and autumn are mild and generally considered the most comfortable seasons for travel. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, so packing waterproof gear is recommended regardless of the season.