Mount Ousley Rest Area Northbound

The Mount Ousley Rest Area is a critically important safety stop and scenic lookout located on the northbound descent of Mount Ousley Road (B88), which winds down the Illawarra Escarpment into the city of Wollongong. This rest area is more than just a place to stretch your legs; it’s a vital truck stop and brake check area for heavy vehicles beginning the notoriously steep and lengthy descent to the coast. For regular motorists, it offers the first spectacular, panoramic view of the Wollongong cityscape, the surrounding suburbs, and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean.

The site is primarily a functional, sealed pullover bay designed with safety in mind. It is not intended for overnight camping and is best suited for short-term rests. The layout provides separate areas for trucks and light vehicles, though space can be limited during peak times. The main drawcard is undoubtedly the breathtaking view, which makes it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to pause and take photographs. There are minimal facilities, consisting of just a few rubbish bins. There are no toilets, picnic tables, or drinking water available, so visitors should not plan for an extended stay unless fully self-sufficient for a brief meal break. Given its location on a major arterial road on the edge of a large city, mobile phone reception is excellent. It serves as an essential facility for ensuring vehicle safety before the final approach into Wollongong and as a memorable viewpoint to introduce visitors to the stunning coastal scenery of the Illawarra region.

Mount Ousley Rest Area Northbound – NSW Location Map

Name: Mount Ousley Rest Area Northbound
Address: Mount Ousley Road, Keiraville NSW 2500, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -34.37477, 150.86101

Site Information

Location: Northbound (downhill) on Mount Ousley Road, just before the main descent into Wollongong.
Site Suitable For: All vehicles, but primarily cars and trucks. Limited space for caravans to pull over safely.
Road Access: Sealed major road. Caution required when entering and exiting due to fast-moving traffic.
Site Surface: Sealed (asphalt).
Camping Permitted: No, this is a day-use rest area and truck brake check bay only.
Maximum Overnight Stays: Not applicable. Short-term parking only.
Picnic Tables: Yes.
Potable Water: Not available.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Excellent for all major carriers.
TV Reception: Excellent terrestrial reception.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
Ullage / Dump Point: Not available onsite.
Drive Through: Yes, it is a drive-through bay parallel to the highway.
Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided.
Open Fires: Strictly prohibited.
Generator Use: Not appropriate for this location.
Number of Sites Available: Limited marked bays for trucks and an open area for cars.
Essentials to Bring: Camera.
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash but must be kept well away from traffic.
Fishing: Not applicable.
Short Walks: Not recommended due to the proximity to the busy highway.

Local Amenities (in Wollongong, at the bottom of the hill)

Pubs & Eateries

The North Wollongong Hotel (North Gong Hotel): Approx. 8km away. A very popular pub with a large bistro and beer garden.
The Illawarra Hotel: Approx. 7km away. A central city pub known for live music and food.
The Keiraville Hotel: Approx. 4km away. The closest local pub at the base of the mountain.
Wollongong’s CBD offers a vast selection of restaurants, cafes, bars, and takeaway shops.

Local Attractions

Wollongong Botanic Garden: Approx. 3km away in Keiraville.
Wollongong Head Lighthouse and Harbour: Approx. 8km away.
Nan Tien Temple: Approx. 10km south. The largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere.

Caravanning & Camping Supplies

Nearest Caravan Parks: Wollongong has several caravan parks, particularly along the coast, such as Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort.
Next Free Camps: No free camping in the Wollongong area. The nearest options are official rest areas south on the M1, like the Wilton Rest Area.
Nearest Dump Points: Check with local caravan parks (a fee will likely apply).
Nearest Petrol Station: Numerous service stations are located at the base of Mount Ousley Road in Fairy Meadow and Wollongong.
Drinking Water Resupply: Available at service stations and public parks in Wollongong.
Nearest Public Toilets: Available at parks and beaches throughout Wollongong.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Illawarra region enjoys a temperate coastal climate. Summers are warm and humid, with sea breezes often moderating the temperature. Afternoon thunderstorms can be common. Winters are mild, with cool nights but rarely any frost due to the coastal influence. Autumn and spring are generally sunny and pleasant, considered the best time to visit. Rainfall can occur year-round, and the escarpment can attract more cloud cover and precipitation than the coastal plain below.