Mount Boyce Rest Area Eastbound, Great Western Highway

The Mount Boyce Rest Area Eastbound is a large, well-equipped, and strategically important rest stop situated on the Great Western Highway near Blackheath, in the upper Blue Mountains of New South Wales. Perched at a high altitude, it serves as a crucial facility for drivers beginning the long, steep descent towards Sydney, particularly for heavy vehicles needing to check their brakes. More than just a functional truck stop, it also acts as a scenic lookout and a convenient information bay for tourists. Surrounded by the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park, the rest area offers impressive views and a refreshing dose of crisp mountain air.

This is a modern, sealed facility designed for short-term rests and is not intended for overnight camping. The layout is a safe, drive-through design with separate, dedicated parking areas for light vehicles like cars and caravans, and for heavy vehicles. The amenities are excellent, featuring a clean toilet block, covered picnic tables, and rubbish bins, making it an ideal place for a travel break. A key feature of the Mount Boyce Rest Area is the Driver Reviver site that often operates here during peak holiday periods, offering free coffee and tea to combat driver fatigue. The site also includes the State Mine Heritage Park and Railway, adding a point of historical interest. Its location near the charming towns of Blackheath and Katoomba makes it a perfect launchpad for exploring the region’s famous lookouts, walking trails, and attractions.

Mount Boyce Rest Area Eastbound – NSW Location Map

Name: Mount Boyce Rest Area Eastbound
Address: 2 Great Western Highway, Blackheath NSW 2785, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -33.60791, 150.27033

Site Information

Location: Eastbound on the Great Western Highway (A32), between Mount Victoria and Blackheath.
Site Suitable For: All vehicles, including big rigs, caravans, and motorhomes.
Road Access: Sealed highway access.
Site Surface: Sealed (asphalt).
Camping Permitted: No, this is a day-use rest and information bay.
Maximum Overnight Stays: Not intended for overnight camping.
Picnic Tables: Yes, covered picnic tables are available.
Potable Water: Yes, drinking water is typically available at the amenities block.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Good coverage for all major carriers.
TV Reception: Good terrestrial TV reception.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a toilet block is on site.
Ullage / Dump Point: Not available onsite.
Drive Through: Yes, with separated parking for cars and trucks.
Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided.
Open Fires: Strictly prohibited.
Generator Use: Not appropriate for this busy location.
Number of Sites Available: Many marked parking bays.
Essentials to Bring: Not applicable for a short rest stop.
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
Fishing: Not applicable.
Short Walks: Paved areas around the rest stop. Access to the State Mine Heritage Park.

Local Amenities (in Blackheath or Katoomba)

Pubs & Eateries

The Gardners Inn Hotel, Blackheath: Approx. 5km east. One of the oldest licensed hotels in the Blue Mountains.
New Ivanhoe Hotel, Blackheath: Approx. 5km east. A classic pub with a popular bistro.
The Carrington Hotel, Katoomba: Approx. 15km east. A grand, historic hotel with multiple bars and dining options.
Blackheath and Katoomba offer a huge range of cafes, bakeries, and restaurants.

Local Attractions

Govetts Leap Lookout, Blackheath: Approx. 7km east. Offers one of the most breathtaking views in the Blue Mountains.
Scenic World, Katoomba: Approx. 16km east. Home to the Scenic Railway, Skyway, and Cableway.
The Three Sisters, Echo Point, Katoomba: Approx. 15km east. The iconic rock formation and lookout.

Caravanning & Camping Supplies

Nearest Caravan Parks: Blackheath Glen Tourist Park, Katoomba Falls Tourist Park.
Next Free Camps: No designated free camps in the upper mountains. Low-cost camping is available at Lake Lyell near Lithgow.
Nearest Dump Points: Available at Blackheath Glen Tourist Park and Katoomba Falls Tourist Park (a fee may apply for non-guests).
Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Blackheath, Mount Victoria, and Katoomba.
Drinking Water Resupply: Available onsite.
Nearest Public Toilets: Available onsite.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The upper Blue Mountains experience a distinct four-season climate. Summers are warm and generally pleasant, providing relief from the heat of Sydney, though afternoon thunderstorms are common. Winters are cold, with frequent frosts, fog, and a high chance of snowfall, which can sometimes impact travel on the highway. Autumn is magnificent, with cool, crisp air and vibrant colours from the many deciduous trees. Spring is mild and beautiful, as the region’s famous gardens come into bloom. Mountain weather can change rapidly, and visitors should always be prepared for cooler and wetter conditions.