Kingsbury VC Rest Area, Hume Highway, Sutton Forest

Nestled amongst the towering pines of the Penrose State Forest, the Kingsbury VC Rest Area is a significant and tranquil stopping place on the Hume Highway in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales. Accessible to both northbound and southbound travellers, this large rest area provides a peaceful, shaded environment perfect for a short break or an overnight stay. Named in honour of Private Bruce Kingsbury VC, a decorated soldier from World War II, the site offers a moment for reflection amidst the journey. Its serene forest setting provides a genuine escape from the highway, allowing travellers to unwind in a natural bushland atmosphere.

The facility is well-suited for all types of vehicles, featuring a straightforward drive-through layout that easily accommodates large caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs. Key amenities include public toilets, covered picnic tables, and rubbish bins, ensuring a comfortable and convenient rest stop. Free overnight camping is permitted, making it a popular choice for those looking to break up the long drive between Sydney and Canberra or Melbourne. While the site is equipped with the basics, travellers should note that there is no potable water or power, so being self-sufficient is essential for longer stays. The sealed surface provides clean, all-weather parking. With good mobile phone reception and its proximity to the charming towns of the Southern Highlands like Sutton Forest, Berrima, and Moss Vale, the Kingsbury VC Rest Area is an outstanding choice for safety, comfort, and a touch of nature on the Hume Highway.

Kingsbury VC Rest Area – NSW Location Map

Name: Kingsbury VC Rest Area
Address: Penrose Forest Way, Sutton Forest NSW 2579, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -34.6193, 150.21314

Site Information

Location: On the Hume Highway (M31), accessible from both northbound and southbound traffic via Penrose Forest Way.
Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, including Big Rigs, Caravans, and Motorhomes.
Road Access: Sealed highway access.
Site Surface: Sealed (asphalt).
Camping Permitted: Yes, free overnight camping is permitted.
Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours is recommended.
Picnic Tables: Yes, several tables available, some under shelter.
Potable Water: Not available.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for major carriers.
TV Reception: Good reception is generally available.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a toilet block is available.
Ullage / Dump Point: Not available onsite.
Drive Through: Yes, easy drive-through access.
Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided.
Open Fires: Strictly forbidden due to the forest location. Total fire bans are often in place.
Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of the peaceful environment and other users.
Number of Sites Available: Large, unmarked area with plenty of space for numerous vehicles.
Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, power source, toilet paper.
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
Fishing: Not applicable. Nearby opportunities in local dams and rivers.
Short Walks: Excellent opportunities for short walks through the adjacent Penrose State Forest.

Local Amenities

Pubs & Eateries

Sutton Forest Inn: Approximately 7 km away in Sutton Forest.
Briars Country Lodge & Inn: Approximately 12 km north, towards Moss Vale.
Surveyor General Inn, Berrima: Approximately 20 km north in historic Berrima.
A wide range of cafes, bakeries and restaurants are located in Moss Vale (approx. 15km) and Bowral (approx. 25km).

Local Attractions

Historic Berrima Village (Courthouse, Gaol): Approximately 20 km north.
Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame: Approximately 25 km north in Bowral.
Cecil Hoskins Nature Reserve: Approximately 16 km north, near Moss Vale.

Caravanning & Camping Supplies

Nearest Caravan Parks: Several options in Moss Vale (approx. 15 km) and Berrima (approx. 20 km).
Next Free Camps: Chowne VC Rest Area to the south, various smaller stops to the north.
Nearest Dump Points: Mittagong Welcome Centre or Moss Vale Showground.
Nearest Petrol Station: Large service centres at Sutton Forest (approx. 7 km).
Drinking Water Resupply: Service stations at Sutton Forest or public taps in parks in Moss Vale.
Nearest Public Toilets: Available onsite.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Southern Highlands experiences a cool, temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and pleasant, rarely reaching extreme temperatures, making it a popular escape from coastal heat. Winters are cool to cold, with crisp, frosty mornings and cool days. Light snowfall can occur occasionally. Autumn is known for its spectacular colours and mild, stable weather. Spring brings new growth and can be windy but is generally mild and sunny. Visitors should pack layers at any time of year to accommodate for cool evenings and changing conditions.