Collarenebri West Rest Area, Gwydir Highway

The Collarenebri West Rest Area is a large, basic free camping spot situated on the Gwydir Highway in the remote outback plains of New South Wales. Located approximately 10 kilometres west of the small town of Collarenebri, this site offers a convenient and accessible overnight stop for travellers making the long trek between Walgett and Moree. It is an expansive, unsealed pull-off area, set a reasonable distance from the highway and surrounded by the typical scrubby bushland of the region. This provides a sense of isolation and a quiet night’s sleep under the vast outback sky. It’s a true bush camp, ideal for those who value solitude and simplicity over facilities.

As a primitive rest area, it is strictly for fully self-contained travellers. There are no facilities whatsoever – no toilets, no water, no picnic tables, and no rubbish bins. Campers must arrive with all their own supplies, including ample drinking water, and adhere to a strict “leave no trace” principle, taking all waste with them upon departure. The ground is a mix of dirt and gravel, generally flat and offering plenty of space for big rigs, caravans, and motorhomes to find a spot. The main appeal of this rest area is its proximity to Collarenebri and the Barwon River. The town provides access to basic supplies, fuel, and a pub, while the river is known for its excellent fishing, particularly for Murray Cod. This makes the rest area a handy base for anglers or those wanting to explore the local area without paying for a caravan park.

Collarenebri West Rest Area – NSW Location Map

Name: Collarenebri West Rest Area
Address: Gwydir Highway, Collarenebri NSW 2833, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -29.59013, 148.49287

Site Information

Location: On the Gwydir Highway (B76), about 10km west of Collarenebri.
Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained vehicles of all sizes.
Road Access: Sealed highway to a dirt/gravel entry.
Site Surface: Dirt and gravel. Condition may vary with weather.
Camping Permitted: Yes, informal free camping is accepted.
Maximum Overnight Stays: Not specified, 24 hours is a standard guideline.
Picnic Tables: Not available.
Potable Water: Not available.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent. A satellite phone or booster is recommended for reliable communication.
TV Reception: Poor; a satellite dish is required.
Onsite Public Toilets: Not available. Must have your own facilities.
Ullage / Dump Point: Not available onsite.
Drive Through: No, it is a large open area.
Rubbish Bins: Yes.
Open Fires: Prohibited. High fire danger is common in the region.
Generator Use: Permitted, be considerate of other campers.
Number of Sites Available: Large unmarked area with ample space.
Essentials to Bring: All water, food, power, toilet/shower facilities, and communication devices.
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
Fishing: Excellent fishing for Murray Cod and Yellowbelly in the nearby Barwon River. A NSW fishing licence is essential.
Short Walks: Informal walks through the surrounding bush.

Local Amenities (in Collarenebri, approx. 10km east)

Pubs & Eateries

Tattersalls Hotel Collarenebri: The main pub in town for meals and drinks.
Collarenebri Bowling Club: Often serves meals and refreshments.
Limited takeaway and cafe options may be available in town.

Local Attractions

Barwon River: The primary attraction for fishing, birdwatching, and relaxing by the water.
Collarenebri Aboriginal Cemetery: Features unique and intricately carved burial poles.
The Collarenebri Weir: A popular spot for fishing and picnics.

Caravanning & Camping Supplies

Nearest Caravan Parks: Collarenebri Caravan Park.
Next Free Camps: Other basic rest areas east towards Moree or west towards Walgett.
Nearest Dump Points: Check with the Collarenebri Caravan Park (a fee may apply).
Nearest Petrol Station: A service station is available in Collarenebri.
Drinking Water Resupply: Check for a public tap in town, potentially at a park or the service station.
Nearest Public Toilets: Public toilets are available in the town of Collarenebri.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Collarenebri experiences a hot semi-arid climate. Summers are extremely hot and can be humid, with temperatures regularly soaring above 40°C. Travel during summer requires a vehicle with effective air conditioning and carrying extra water is crucial. Winters are typically mild and sunny with little rainfall, although nights and early mornings can be very cold with a risk of frost. Autumn and spring are the most pleasant times to visit, featuring warm days and cool nights, making them ideal for outdoor activities like fishing.