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MacCullochs Rest Area Westbound, Barrier Hwy, Wilcannia NSW

A Spacious Haven on the Road to Broken Hill

MacCullochs Rest Area Westbound is a large and well-regarded free camping spot on the legendary Barrier Highway, situated approximately 50 kilometres east of the historic river town of Wilcannia in Far West New South Wales. For travellers making the long and often arduous journey west towards Broken Hill, this rest area provides a crucial, safe, and spacious haven to break the drive. It is a classic outback stop, perfectly suited for fully self-contained travellers who appreciate the vastness and tranquillity of the remote Australian landscape. Its significant size and easy, direct access from the highway make it a popular choice for all types of rigs, from the largest motorhomes and fifth-wheelers to smaller campervans.

The site itself is a very large, open area with a firm dirt and gravel surface, offering plenty of room to find a level spot and spread out without feeling crowded by other campers. Set well back from the road, it allows for a peaceful night with minimal disturbance from passing road trains. The basic amenities include toilets and some sheltered picnic tables, making it a comfortable spot for a meal break or an overnight stay. As is standard for this remote region, there is no potable water, so it is imperative to arrive with all necessary supplies. The open environment is pet-friendly and provides a fantastic opportunity to witness a spectacular outback sunset, followed by a brilliant, star-filled night sky, far from the light pollution of any major settlements. For a reliable 24-hour stop, MacCullochs is an excellent and practical choice.

MacCullochs Rest Area Westbound – NSW Map

Name: MacCullochs Rest Area Westbound
Address: Barrier Hwy, Wilcannia NSW 2836
GPS Coordinates: -31.69518, 143.81477

Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, Camper Trailers, Tents.
Road Access: Sealed highway (Barrier Highway).
Site Surface: Dirt and gravel.
Camping Permitted: Yes.
Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
Number of Sites Available: Very large area, 30+ unpowered sites.
Pet Friendly: Yes.
Fishing: Not available at this location.
Short Walks: Ample space to walk around the large rest area and explore the surrounding bush.

Facilities

Picnic Tables: Yes (sheltered).
Potable Water: No. You must bring your own entire water supply.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Very limited to non-existent. A signal is not guaranteed.
TV Reception: Unlikely.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes (long drop style).
Rubbish Bins: Yes.
Open Fires: Prohibited. Always check local fire regulations.
Generator Use: Permitted, with courtesy to other campers.

Essentials to Bring

A substantial supply of drinking water.
All food, cooking equipment, and emergency provisions.
A full tank of fuel from Cobar or Wilcannia.
Insect repellent and fly nets, especially in warmer weather.

Local Amenities (in nearby Wilcannia, approx. 50 km west)

Pubs

Wilcannia Golf Club: Offers bar facilities and meals.
Wilcannia Club Hotel: A historic outback pub.

Places to Eat

Wilcannia Roadhouse / Service Station: Offers takeaway food and basic supplies.
Local cafes (check opening hours as they can vary).

Local Attractions

Darling River: The river is the heart of the town, good for a walk.
Historic Wilcannia buildings: Explore the old post office, courthouse, and police station.
Wilcannia Bridge.

Caravan Parks

Warrawong on the Darling: A popular park located just outside Wilcannia.

Next Free Camps

Baden Park Rest Area: Approximately 50 km west, just before Wilcannia.
Various rest areas east towards Cobar.

Services

Nearest Dump Point: Check with Warrawong on the Darling caravan park (a fee may apply).
Nearest Petrol Station: Service station in Wilcannia.
Drinking Water Resupply: Check at the Wilcannia Visitor Information Point.
Public Toilets: On-site and in Wilcannia.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Far West NSW

Summer (Dec-Feb): Extremely hot and dry, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 40°C. Travel with extreme caution and carry extra water.
Autumn (Mar-May): Warm days and cooler nights make this the prime season for travel in the region.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Mild and sunny days with very cold nights and frosts.
Spring (Sep-Nov): Pleasant and warm, a great time to see wildflowers after good rains.