Cobar RSL Free Camp Spot – Outback NSW

The Cobar RSL Free Camp Spot is another fantastic example of the outback hospitality that makes the historic mining town of Cobar so welcoming to travellers. This designated free camping area provides a highly convenient and practical option for self-contained campers looking for a safe place to stop for the night. Located on a large, open, and flat area of land near the RSL Club, its main advantage is its central position. While it’s a no-frills rest stop without the scenic allure of a bush camp, its unparalleled convenience makes it an extremely popular choice for those travelling along the Barrier Highway.

This is a strictly self-contained camping area, meaning there are no facilities like toilets or water provided. Campers must have their own onboard amenities and be committed to leaving no trace by taking all rubbish with them. The large, open space is suitable for all vehicle sizes, including big rigs and large caravans, and its pet-friendly policy is a major bonus for those travelling with their furry companions. The key benefit of staying here is being just a very short walk from the heart of Cobar. This allows you to easily access the town’s supermarkets for supplies, enjoy a meal at the RSL or one of the classic outback pubs, and explore the rich mining history at the Great Cobar Heritage Centre. It also serves as a great base for visiting the impressive Fort Bourke Hill Lookout to see the vast open-cut mine. For a functional, safe, and incredibly convenient free stopover, the Cobar RSL camp is an excellent resource for the self-sufficient traveller.

• GPS Coordinates: -31.49844, 145.83974

Site Information

• Location: In the town of Cobar, near the RSL Club.
• Site suitable for: Self-contained caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs.
• Road access: Sealed road. Easy 2WD access.
• Site surface: Natural red earth and gravel.
• Camping permitted: Yes, free of charge for self-contained vehicles.
• Maximum overnight stays: Generally 24-48 hours.
• Facilities: None.
• Picnic tables: No.
• Potable water: No. Bring all your own water.
• Mobile phone coverage: Excellent for all major carriers.
• TV reception: Excellent.
• Onsite public toilets: No. You must have your own toilet facilities.
• Rubbish bins: No. All rubbish must be carried out.
• Open fires: Not permitted.
• Generator use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of sites available: Numerous unmarked sites in a large open area.

Essentials to Bring

• Your own toilet and shower facilities.
• All drinking and washing water.
• Rubbish bags to take all waste with you.

Activities

• Pet friendly: Yes, very pet friendly.
• Fishing: Not applicable.
• Short walks: Easy walk into the town centre to explore Cobar’s attractions.

Local Amenities (in Cobar)

• Local Pubs:
  • The Great Western Hotel, Cobar (~1 km)
  • The Empire Hotel, Cobar (~1 km)
  • Cobar Bowling & Golf Club (~2 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • An excellent selection of pubs, clubs, cafes, and bakeries in Cobar (~1 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • The Fort Bourke Hill Lookout (~3 km)
  • Great Cobar Heritage Centre and Museum (~1 km)
  • Mount Grenfell Historic Site (further afield, 4WD needed)
  • Cobar Miners Heritage Park (~1 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Cobar Caravan Park (~2 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Old Reservoir, Cobar (~3 km)
  • Cobar Free Camp Truck Stop (~1 km)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • A public dump point is available at the Cobar Council Depot (~1 km).
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple service stations in Cobar (~1 km).
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Cobar. It is essential to arrive at the camp fully supplied with water.
• Public Toilets:
  • The nearest public toilets are in the town centre (~1 km).

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Outback NSW (Cobar Region)

• Summer (December – February): Extremely hot. Temperatures consistently exceed 40°C. Travel can be hazardous. Average temperatures from 22°C to 38°C.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm to mild sunny days and cool nights. This is a prime time to visit. Temperatures range from 12°C to 29°C.
• Winter (June – August): Cool, clear, and sunny days with very cold nights that can drop to freezing. Temperatures range from 4°C to 18°C.
• Spring (September – November): Mild to hot days with cool nights. The landscape can be spectacular with wildflowers after rain. Temperatures range from 11°C to 29°C.