Meilman East Rest Area, Sturt Hwy, Euston NSW

A Practical Stop on the Sturt Highway

The Meilman East Rest Area is a large and practical free camping spot located on the Sturt Highway in southwestern New South Wales. Situated just a few kilometres east of the extremely popular Benanee Lake Rest Area, it serves as an excellent alternative, especially during peak travel times when the lakeside spots are full. This makes it a crucial part of the network of rest stops for travellers on the long haul between Sydney and Adelaide. While it may not have the direct water views of its famous neighbour, Meilman East offers its own advantages, including ample space, easy access, and a more traditional, quiet bush setting.

This is a very spacious rest area with a large, unsealed surface that can easily accommodate numerous vehicles of all shapes and sizes, from big rigs to campervans. Its size ensures that finding a level and private spot is rarely an issue. The site is well-equipped with the essential facilities for a comfortable 24-hour stay, including toilets, rubbish bins, and some sheltered picnic tables. Like most free camps in the region, it is intended for self-contained travellers, and it is vital to arrive with your own supply of drinking water. Its close proximity to the service town of Euston (approximately 20 km away) means that stocking up on fuel, groceries, and other supplies is quick and convenient. For travellers looking for a reliable, no-fuss, and spacious free camp on the Sturt Highway, the Meilman East Rest Area is a fantastic and dependable option.

Meilman East Rest Area – NSW Location Map

Name: Meilman East Rest Area
Address: Sturt Hwy, Euston NSW 2737
GPS Coordinates: -34.52936, 142.93836

Site Details

Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, Camper Trailers.
Road Access: Sealed highway (Sturt Highway).
Site Surface: Dirt and gravel.
Camping Permitted: Yes.
Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
Number of Sites Available: Large area with 20+ unpowered sites.
Pet Friendly: Yes.
Fishing: Not on-site, but available at nearby Benanee Lake and the Murray River.
Short Walks: Yes, around the spacious rest area.

Facilities

Picnic Tables: Yes.
Potable Water: No. You must bring your own complete supply.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra, can be variable for other carriers.
TV Reception: Good.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
Rubbish Bins: Yes.
Open Fires: Prohibited.
Generator Use: Permitted, with courtesy to other campers.

Essentials to Bring

A full supply of drinking water.
Insect repellent, especially during warmer months.

Local Amenities (in nearby Euston, approx. 20 km west)

Pubs

Euston Club Resort: A major club on the Murray River with dining, bars, and entertainment.
Royal Hotel Euston: A classic country pub in the centre of town.
Robinvale Hotel (across the river in Victoria): Another popular option for meals and drinks.

Places to Eat

Euston Club Resort Bistro.
Local cafes and takeaway shops in Euston and Robinvale.
Supermarkets (Foodworks in Euston, IGA in Robinvale) for supplies.

Local Attractions

Benanee Lake for fishing and birdwatching.
The Murray River for fishing and boating.
Euston Lock and Weir 15.

Caravan Parks

Euston Riverfront Caravan Park.
Robinvale Riverside Caravan Park.

Next Free Camps

Benanee Lake Rest Area: Approximately 6 km west.
Rest areas east towards Balranald.

Services

Nearest Dump Point: Located at the Euston Riverfront Caravan Park (a fee may apply).
Nearest Petrol Station: Service stations available in Euston.
Drinking Water Resupply: Check at the local visitor information or council.
Public Toilets: On-site.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Riverina/Sunraysia Region

Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry, with temperatures often in the high 30s or low 40s.
Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, sunny days and mild nights make this an ideal time to visit.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool to mild days with cold nights and frosts common.
Spring (Sep-Nov): Conditions are warm and pleasant, perfect for enjoying the outdoors.