Gurney VC Rest Area, Lake George

The Gurney VC Rest Area is arguably one of Australia’s most spectacular and well-known highway rest stops, perched high on the escarpment with breathtaking, panoramic views over the vast and mysterious Lake George. Located on the Federal Highway, the main route between Sydney and Canberra, it is an essential stop for travellers and a tourist destination in its own right. The rest area is dedicated to Private Arthur Stanley Gurney, who was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for his gallantry in the Second World War, adding a layer of historical significance to this stunning natural viewpoint.

This is a very busy, modern, and well-maintained facility designed primarily for short-term rests and appreciation of the incredible scenery. It is not a designated overnight camping area. The main attraction is the expansive lookout, which provides an unparalleled vantage point to witness the sheer scale of Lake George, a large endorheic lake that is famous for periodically filling with water and then mysteriously drying out. The facility itself has a sealed, drive-through design with dedicated parking for all vehicle types, including cars, caravans, and heavy vehicles. Amenities are excellent, with a clean toilet block, covered picnic tables, and rubbish bins, all positioned to take advantage of the magnificent views. A mobile coffee van is often present during peak periods. As a critical fatigue management zone before the final approach to Canberra, it’s the perfect place to stop, refresh, take iconic photographs, and marvel at one of the region’s most captivating natural wonders.

Gurney VC Rest Area – NSW Map

Name: Gurney VC Rest Area
Address: Federal Highway, Lake George NSW 2620, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -34.99968, 149.3824

Site Information

• Location: On the Federal Highway (M23), overlooking Lake George, south of Collector.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicles, including big rigs, caravans, and motorhomes.
• Road Access: Sealed motorway access.
• Site Surface: Sealed (asphalt).
• Camping Permitted: No, this is a day-use rest area and lookout only.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Not for overnight camping. Driver fatigue rest time limits apply.
• Picnic Tables: Yes, numerous covered picnic tables are available.
• Potable Water: No.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Excellent coverage for all major carriers due to the high elevation.
• TV Reception: Excellent terrestrial TV reception.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Bo.
• Ullage / Dump Point: Not available onsite.
• Drive Through: Yes, a large, well-designed layout with separated parking areas.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided.
• Open Fires: Strictly prohibited.
• Generator Use: Not appropriate for this busy scenic lookout.
• Number of Sites Available: Many marked parking bays.
• Essentials to Bring: Camera and binoculars.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: Not applicable.
• Short Walks: Paved pathways around the lookout and picnic areas.

Local Amenities

Pubs & Eateries

• The Bushranger Hotel, Collector: Approx. 5km north. A famous and historic Australian pub.
• Some Cafe, Collector: Approx. 5km north. A popular spot for coffee and light meals.
• The Eagle Hawk Hotel, Sutton: Approx. 25km south. A classic country pub on the way to Canberra.
• The nearest major cities with full services are Goulburn (approx. 50km north) and Canberra (approx. 40km south).

Local Attractions

• Lake George Lookout: The primary attraction is the view from the rest area itself.
• Collector Village: A charming and historic town just a few minutes’ drive north.
• Canberra Wine District: The cool-climate wineries around Lake George, Murrumbateman, and Sutton are a short drive away.

Caravanning & Camping Supplies

• Nearest Caravan Parks: Available on the northern outskirts of Canberra (approx. 35km south) and in Goulburn (approx. 50km north).
• Next Free Camps: Murrays Lagoon Rest Area (north) or other rest stops closer to Canberra.
• Nearest Dump Points: The closest public dump points are in Goulburn or Canberra.
• Nearest Petrol Station: A major service centre is located at the Collector exit (5km north).
• Drinking Water Resupply: Available onsite.
• Nearest Public Toilets: Available onsite.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Lake George escarpment is known for being extremely windy at all times of the year. The climate is cool temperate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot and generally dry. Winters are cold, with frequent heavy frosts and a strong possibility of sleet and snow, which can create dramatic scenery but also hazardous driving conditions. Autumn and spring are typically mild but can be very windy. Visitors should always be prepared for conditions to be cooler and windier than in Canberra or Goulburn due to the exposed, elevated location.