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Middle Creek Rest Area, Western Highway

The Middle Creek Rest Area, conveniently located on the Western Highway (A8) in Victoria, serves as a vital rest stop for travellers journeying between Adelaide and Melbourne. Positioned roughly halfway between the historic towns of Ararat and Beaufort, this free camping spot offers a large, accessible area perfect for a quick break or an overnight stay. Surrounded by a pleasant bushland setting, it provides a more serene atmosphere than many highway-side stops. Its spacious layout caters exceptionally well to all types of vehicles, including large caravans, motorhomes, and even the biggest of big rigs, with separate designated areas for trucks and cars ensuring a more organised and peaceful environment for everyone.

While the facilities are basic, they are practical and well-maintained. The site includes public toilets and rubbish bins, covering the main essentials for travellers. The ground is a combination of bitumen and gravel, providing a solid surface for parking. A key feature is its pet-friendly nature, welcoming those travelling with animal companions. Mobile phone service is generally available, allowing you to stay in touch and plan your route. Visitors should be aware that there is no potable water or power available on site, so it is crucial to be self-sufficient and arrive with full water tanks and charged batteries. Generators are permitted, though respectful usage is encouraged. With a recommended maximum stay of 24 hours, Middle Creek Rest Area is an excellent, no-cost option that provides safety, convenience, and a touch of nature for those on a long drive through western Victoria.

★★★☆☆ (3.2 Stars)

Campground Information

Name: Middle Creek Rest Area
Address: Western Highway (A8), Middle Creek, VIC 3375, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -37.3972061, 143.2826633
Website: Not available

Site Details & Facilities

Location: Western Highway (A8), approx. 20km east of Ararat and 25km west of Beaufort.
Site Suitable For: Caravans, Camper Trailers, Motorhomes, RVs, Big Rigs.
Road Access: Sealed bitumen road.
Site Surface: Bitumen, dirt, and gravel.
Camping Permitted: Yes.
Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours recommended.
Facilities: Picnic tables.
Potable Water: No.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Yes (Telstra/Optus generally okay).
TV Reception: Fair.
Onsite Public Toilets: No.
Rubbish Bins: Yes.
Open Fires: Not permitted.
Generator Use: Permitted.
Number of Sites Available: Large open area, 20+ informal sites.
Essentials to Bring: Drinking water.
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets must be kept on a leash.

Local Area Guide

Fishing: Green Hill Lake in Ararat (approx. 25 km).
Short Walks: Walking limited to the large perimeter of the rest area.
Local Pubs:
- Ararat Hotel, Ararat (approx. 20 km)
- Golden Age Hotel, Beaufort (approx. 25 km)
- Beaufort Hotel, Beaufort (approx. 25 km)
Places to Eat: Full range of bakeries, cafes, and restaurants in Ararat (20 km) and Beaufort (25 km).
Local Attractions:
- J Ward Lunatic Asylum, Ararat (approx. 21 km)
- Aradale Lunatic Asylum, Ararat (approx. 23 km)
- Langi Ghiran State Park (approx. 15 km)

Nearby Travel Resources

Nearest Caravan Parks: Ararat Holiday Park (approx. 20 km), Beaufort Lake Caravan Park (approx. 25 km).
Next Free Camps: Great Western Public Hall (approx. 40 km west), Lake Goldsmith Rest Area (approx. 50 km east).
Nearest Dump Points: Ararat Visitor Information Centre (approx. 20 km), Beaufort Transfer Station (approx. 26 km).
Nearest Petrol Station: Ararat (approx. 18 km), Beaufort (approx. 25 km).
Drinking Water Resupply: Ararat Visitor Information Centre (approx. 20 km).
Nearest Public Toilets: Located onsite. Additional facilities in Ararat and Beaufort.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm to hot and dry days. Average temperatures from 14°C to 29°C.
Autumn (Mar-May): Mild days with cool and crisp evenings. Temperatures range from 8°C to 21°C.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Cold days and very cold nights, often with frost. Temperatures range from 3°C to 13°C.
Spring (Sep-Nov): Cool to mild weather, becoming warmer. Temperatures range from 7°C to 19°C.