Bullarah Rest Area 2, Gwydir Highway

The Bullarah Rest Area is a large, open, and basic free camping spot located on the Gwydir Highway in the heart of the rich agricultural plains of northern New South Wales. Positioned roughly halfway between the major towns of Moree and Walgett, this site offers a much-needed and convenient stopping point for travellers undertaking the long, straight drive through this expansive region. The rest area is essentially a large, unsealed pull-off, set well back from the highway, providing a relatively peaceful setting for a short break or an overnight rest. Surrounded by vast fields of cotton and grain, it offers a genuine sense of being in Australia’s food bowl. It’s a classic, no-frills outback rest stop, perfect for those who are fully self-sufficient.

This is a primitive camping area with no facilities, meaning it is suitable only for self-contained vehicles like caravans, motorhomes, and camper trailers. Visitors must bring everything they need, including their own toilets, showers, drinking water, and power. Crucially, a ‘leave no trace’ philosophy is essential, as there are no rubbish bins provided. The ground is a mix of dirt and gravel, which can become boggy after significant rainfall, so checking conditions is wise. The large, open space provides ample room for even the biggest rigs to find a level spot and turn around easily. While basic, its strategic location is its biggest asset, allowing drivers to break up the journey and rest, especially during the hot summer months. The nearest services are a considerable distance away in Moree or Walgett, so planning ahead for fuel and supplies is vital.

Bullarah Rest Area 2 – NSW Location Map

Name: Bullarah Rest Area
Address: 9247 Gwydir Highway, Bullarah NSW 2400, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -29.45289, 149.00575

Site Information

Location: On the Gwydir Highway (B76), approximately 90km west of Moree and 80km east of Walgett.
Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained vehicles of all sizes.
Road Access: Sealed highway to a dirt/gravel entry.
Site Surface: Dirt and gravel. Exercise caution after rain.
Camping Permitted: Yes, informal free camping for self-contained vehicles.
Maximum Overnight Stays: Not specified; 24-48 hours is standard practice.
Picnic Tables: Yes.
Potable Water: Not available.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Very poor to non-existent. A satellite phone or vehicle booster is highly recommended.
TV Reception: Not available without a satellite system.
Onsite Public Toilets: Not available. Must be self-contained.
Ullage / Dump Point: Not available onsite.
Drive Through: No, but it is a very large, open area providing easy access.
Rubbish Bins: Yes.
Open Fires: Strictly prohibited due to the high fire risk in the agricultural region.
Generator Use: Permitted, but be mindful of any other campers.
Number of Sites Available: Large unmarked area with plenty of space.
Essentials to Bring: All water, food, power, toilet/shower facilities, and emergency communication equipment.
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
Fishing: Possible in nearby rivers like the Gwydir or Barwon, but access from the rest area is not direct. A NSW fishing licence is required.
Short Walks: Informal walks around the perimeter of the rest area.

Local Amenities (Nearest major towns are Moree or Walgett)

Pubs & Eateries

The Royal Hotel Moree: Approx. 90km east in Moree.
Club Hotel Walgett: Approx. 80km west in Walgett.
Barwon Inn Walgett: Approx. 80km west in Walgett.
Both Moree and Walgett offer a range of pubs, clubs, cafes and takeaway food stores.

Local Attractions

Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre: Approx. 90km east in Moree.
Moree Plains Gallery: Approx. 90km east in Moree.
Walgett Bore Baths: Approx. 80km west in Walgett.

Caravanning & Camping Supplies

Nearest Caravan Parks: Available in Moree (approx. 90km east) and Walgett (approx. 80km west).
Next Free Camps: Telleraga Road Rest Area (east), Collarenebri West Rest Area (north-east).
Nearest Dump Points: Public dump points are available in Moree and Walgett.
Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Moree and Walgett. There are no services at Bullarah.
Drinking Water Resupply: Available in Moree and Walgett, typically at visitor centres or service stations.
Nearest Public Toilets: Available in Moree and Walgett.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Bullarah area experiences a hot, semi-arid climate. Summers are very hot, with daytime temperatures frequently exceeding 40°C, and can be accompanied by high humidity and summer storms. Winters are generally mild and sunny, but nights and early mornings can be very cold with frequent frosts. The most pleasant time for travel is during the autumn and spring months, which offer warm days and cool, comfortable nights. The black soil plains in this region can become impassable after heavy rain.