Lochiel Rest Area (Pink Lake) – Free Camping on the Western Highway

Few rest stops in Australia can claim to be a tourist destination in their own right, but the Lochiel Rest Area on the Western Highway is one of them. Situated conveniently between Dimboola and Nhill, this large, sealed rest area is famous for its commanding, front-row view of the mesmerising Loch Iel, more commonly known as the Pink Lake. This natural phenomenon makes the stop an absolute must-do for travellers, photographers, and anyone journeying between Melbourne and Adelaide. The lake’s remarkable rosy hue, caused by a salt-tolerant alga, changes in intensity depending on the season and cloud cover, offering a unique spectacle every time you visit. It’s far more than a place to park for the night; it’s a chance to witness one of regional Victoria’s most iconic natural wonders.

The rest area itself is spacious and well-suited for all types of vehicles, from cars and tents to the largest caravans and big rigs. The bitumen surface ensures clean, easy, and level parking year-round. Facilities are basic but well-maintained, including a toilet block, several picnic tables, and rubbish bins, covering the essentials for a comfortable stopover. While there is no potable water or power available, the breathtaking view more than compensates for the lack of luxury amenities. A short track leads from the rest area down to the lake’s edge, allowing visitors to walk on the salt crust and get up close to the pink water. The location directly on the highway does mean some traffic noise is inevitable, but for a free camp with such a stunning and unique backdrop, it’s a small price to pay. Whether you’re stopping for a quick photo, a lunch break, or a full overnight stay, the Lochiel Rest Area offers an unforgettable travel experience.

Site Information

• Name: Lochiel Rest Area (Pink Lake)
• Address: Western Highway, Dimboola VIC 3414, Australia

• GPS Coordinates: -36.418505, 141.981412

• Website: Not available

Rest Area Details

• Location: Directly on the Western Highway, overlooking Loch Iel (Pink Lake), between Dimboola and Nhill.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, including large caravans and big rigs.
• Road Access: Sealed highway.
• Site Surface: Bitumen / Asphalt.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, overnight stays are common and permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours is standard practice.
• Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables.
• Potable Water: Not available.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra, other carriers can be weaker.
• TV Reception: Good.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Prohibited.
• Generator Use: Permitted, but be considerate of others and limit use to reasonable hours.
• Number of Sites Available: Large unmarked area, can accommodate 30+ vehicles.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water and all food supplies.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets must be kept on a leash.
• Fishing: Not applicable.
• Short Walks: Path down to the edge of the Pink Lake.

Local Amenities & Attractions

• Local Pubs:
  • Victoria Hotel, Dimboola: Approx. 12 km
  • Commercial Hotel, Nhill: Approx. 25 km
  • Little Desert Hotel, Kiata: Approx. 15 km
• Places to Eat:
  • Dimboola Store & Cafe: Approx. 12 km
  • Nhill Bakery: Approx. 25 km
• Local Attractions:
  • Loch Iel (The Pink Lake): Onsite
  • Little Desert National Park: Approx. 20 km
  • Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre: Approx. 25 km
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Riverside Holiday Park, Dimboola: Approx. 12 km
  • Nhill Caravan Park: Approx. 25 km
• Next Free Camps:
  • Dow Well Rest Area (primitive): Approx. 40 km
  • Serviceton Rest Area (VIC/SA Border): Approx. 90 km
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Dimboola (check showgrounds or park): Approx. 12 km
  • Nhill Caravan Park (fee may apply): Approx. 25 km
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Dimboola: Approx. 12 km
  • Nhill: Approx. 25 km
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Dimboola or Nhill town facilities.
• Public Toilets (offsite):
  • Available in the towns of Dimboola and Nhill.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry, with temperatures frequently exceeding 35°C. The lake’s colour can be intense.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Warm days and cooler nights provide pleasant travelling conditions. Temperatures range from 10°C to 26°C.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool to cold days with frosty nights. The lake may have more water, changing its appearance. Averages range from 5°C to 16°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and sunny with wildflowers in the surrounding areas. Ideal weather for exploring, with temperatures from 9°C to 24°C.