Grasstree Northbound Rest Area | Free Camping on the Hume Highway

The Grasstree Northbound Rest Area offers a crucial stopping point for travellers heading north from Melbourne along the Hume Highway. Located conveniently near the towns of Avenel and Seymour, this designated free camping spot provides a safe and accessible haven for drivers to rest and recharge. As one of the first major rest areas after navigating Melbourne’s outer suburbs, it’s perfectly positioned for those starting a long journey or needing a break before pushing further into regional Victoria. The site is characterised by its long, parallel layout, which allows for easy entry and exit for all vehicle types, from cars and camper trailers to large motorhomes and caravans.

While the facilities are basic, they are functional and cater to the essential needs of roadside travellers. The rest area is equipped with public toilets and several rubbish bins, helping to keep the site clean. The surface is primarily bitumen, providing a stable and level base for most setups. Being an official rest area, overnight stays are permitted, making it a valuable resource for managing driver fatigue on the long haul to Sydney or Brisbane. The proximity to the highway means there is ambient traffic noise, however, its convenience often outweighs this for most campers. The area is large enough that it’s usually possible to find a spot, even during busier periods. For a no-cost, no-fuss overnight stop with essential amenities, Grasstree Northbound Rest Area is a reliable and highly practical choice for any traveller on the Hume.

Location Details

• Name: Grasstree Northbound Rest Area
• Address: Hume Highway (Northbound), Avenel, Victoria, Australia

• GPS Coordinates: -36.963002, 145.180752

• Website: Not available

Site Information

• Location: Directly off the northbound lanes of the Hume Highway, between Seymour and Avenel.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, including cars, campervans, caravans, and big rigs.
• Road Access: Sealed (bitumen). Direct highway access.
• Site Surface: Bitumen and some gravel/dirt areas.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, overnight stays are permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours recommended.
• Facilities: Basic, no power or showers.
• Potable Water: No, bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Excellent coverage for all major carriers.
• TV Reception: Strong digital TV signal.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Not permitted.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but show consideration for fellow campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Unmarked, long drive-through area. Approximately 25+ spaces.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, food supplies, insect repellent.

Local Amenities & Services

• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Goulburn River in Seymour (approx. 15 km).
• Short Walks: Goulburn River Walk in Seymour (approx. 15 km), Mount Wombat scenic lookout (drive).

• Local Pubs:
  • The Royal Hotel, Seymour (approx. 15 km)
  • Prince of Wales Hotel, Seymour (approx. 15 km)
  • Harvest Home, Avenel (approx. 10 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Wide selection of cafes, bakeries, and restaurants in Seymour (approx. 15 km)
  • Avenel (pubs and cafes) (approx. 10 km)
• Local Attractions:
  • Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Walk, Seymour (approx. 15 km)
  • Seymour Railway Heritage Centre (approx. 15 km)
  • Avenel Maze (approx. 12 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Goulburn River Tourist Park, Seymour (approx. 16 km)
  • Big4 Seymour Holiday Park (approx. 17 km)
• Next Free Camps:
  • Beveridge Northbound Rest Area (approx. 60 km south)
  • Balmattum Rest Area (Northbound) (approx. 45 km north)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Goulburn River Tourist Park, Seymour (fee may apply for non-guests) (approx. 16 km)
  • Nagambie Lakes Regatta Centre (approx. 35 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple major service stations in Seymour (approx. 15 km)
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Lions Park, Seymour (check availability) (approx. 15 km)
• Nearest Public Toilets:
  • Onsite
  • Multiple locations in Seymour and Avenel.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Seymour/Avenel Area

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot and generally dry. Temperatures typically range from 16°C to 32°C, with occasional days exceeding 38°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days and cool nights. Temperatures range from 9°C to 26°C, with beautiful autumn colours in the region.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool to cold with frequent frosts overnight. Daytime temperatures average 6°C to 14°C. The wettest time of year.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and becomes progressively warmer. Temperatures range from 8°C to 24°C. A mix of sunshine and spring showers.