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Birdcage East Rest Area
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Birdcage East Rest Area, Sturt Hwy, Darlington Point NSW

Birdcage East Rest Area, Sturt Hwy, Darlington Point NSW

A Convenient Stop in the Murrumbidgee Valley

The Birdcage East Rest Area is a well-regarded and highly convenient free camping spot on the Sturt Highway, located in the fertile Murrumbidgee River Valley of New South Wales. Positioned between the major regional centres of Narrandera and Hay, and just a short drive from the riverside town of Darlington Point, this rest area is a popular choice for travellers seeking a safe and accessible place for a 24-hour stopover. Its location makes it an ideal spot to break the long journey, offering a comfortable and cost-free base from which to explore the local area’s natural attractions.

The site itself is a large, sealed bitumen area, making it an all-weather option suitable for all types of vehicles, including the largest motorhomes and caravans. The level surface ensures an easy setup. It is a designated truck stop, so while it is highly functional, campers should be prepared for some vehicle noise throughout the night. The facilities are basic but practical, with toilets and sheltered picnic tables available for use. As with most free camps along this route, there is no potable water, so it is essential that visitors arrive fully self-sufficient with their own supplies. The rest area’s greatest strength is its proximity to Darlington Point, a charming town on the banks of the Murrumbidgee. A quick trip into town provides access to a dump point, drinking water, a supermarket, and classic country pubs. This blend of highway convenience and nearby town services makes the Birdcage East Rest Area a smart and practical choice for any traveller on the Sturt Highway.

Birdcage East Rest Area – NSW Location Map

  • Name: Birdcage East Rest Area
  • Address: Sturt Hwy, Darlington Point NSW 2706
  • GPS Coordinates: -34.52388, 145.70175

Site Details

  • Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, Camper Trailers.
  • Road Access: Sealed highway (Sturt Highway).
  • Site Surface: Bitumen.
  • Camping Permitted: Yes.
  • Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
  • Number of Sites Available: Large area with 20+ unpowered sites.
  • Pet Friendly: Yes.
  • Fishing: Not on-site, but excellent fishing is available in the nearby Murrumbidgee River at Darlington Point.
  • Short Walks: Yes, around the spacious rest area.

Facilities

  • Picnic Tables: Yes (sheltered).
  • Potable Water: No. You must bring your own or source it in Darlington Point.
  • Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra; may be patchy for other carriers.
  • TV Reception: Good.
  • Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
  • Rubbish Bins: Yes.
  • Open Fires: Prohibited.
  • Generator Use: Permitted, with courtesy to other campers, especially overnight.

Essentials to Bring

  • A full supply of drinking water.
  • Levelling ramps, although the surface is generally flat.

Local Amenities (in nearby Darlington Point, approx. 20 km east)

Pubs

  • The Punt Hotel: A classic pub on the river with a friendly local atmosphere.
  • Darlington Point Club: Offers bistro meals, a bar, and club facilities.

Places to Eat

  • Bistro dining at the Punt Hotel and the Darlington Point Club.
  • Goanna Gourmet, a popular local cafe.
  • Local takeaway and general store.

Local Attractions

  • The Murrumbidgee River for fishing, kayaking, and swimming at the sandy beach.
  • Altina Wildlife Park, a major regional attraction.
  • Murrumbidgee Valley National Park.

Caravan Parks

  • Darlington Point Riverside Caravan Park.

Next Free Camps

  • Mulberygong Rest Area: Approximately 45 km west.
  • Rest areas east towards Narrandera.

Services

  • Nearest Dump Point: Located at the Darlington Point Caravan Park (check for public access/fees).
  • Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Darlington Point.
  • Drinking Water Resupply: Available at the park in Darlington Point.
  • Public Toilets: On-site, and also in Darlington Point.

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 very cold nights and heavy frosts.
  • Spring (Sep-Nov): Conditions are warm and pleasant, perfect for enjoying the outdoors.

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