Mountain Top East Rest Area, Waterfall Way

The Mountain Top East Rest Area is a stunning scenic lookout and rest stop perched on the edge of the Dorrigo Mountain, right on the iconic Waterfall Way tourist drive in New South Wales. Located just a few kilometres east of the charming town of Dorrigo, this small pull-over area offers breathtaking panoramic views over the Bellinger River valley and towards the Great Dividing Range. It’s a must-do stop for anyone travelling this world-renowned route, providing the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs, take incredible photographs, and appreciate the dramatic escarpment landscape.

This site is primarily a day-use area and scenic lookout rather than a dedicated overnight camp. While it is not formally designated for camping, it is suitable for a short rest in a self-contained vehicle. The area is small and on a slope, making it challenging for larger caravans and motorhomes to find a level spot. It is best suited to cars, campervans, and smaller motorhomes. The key feature here is the view, complemented by a couple of picnic tables, making it an idyllic spot for a lunch break. There are no other facilities, so visitors must be completely self-sufficient. There are no toilets, no drinking water, and no rubbish bins, so a ‘leave no trace’ approach is essential to preserve the beauty of this natural location. Given its prime position on one of Australia’s most celebrated drives, it serves as a fantastic introduction to the wonders of the Dorrigo National Park and the surrounding Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage area.

Mountain Top East Rest Area – NSW Location Map

Name: Mountain Top East Rest Area
Address: Waterfall Way, Dorrigo Mountain NSW 2453, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -30.37502, 152.72576

Site Information

Location: On the Waterfall Way (B78), approximately 3km east of Dorrigo township.
Site Suitable For: Cars, campervans, and small motorhomes. Not recommended for large caravans or big rigs due to limited space and sloping ground.
Road Access: Sealed highway. The Waterfall Way is steep and winding in this section.
Site Surface: Sealed (asphalt).
Camping Permitted: Not officially designated for overnight camping. It is a day-use rest area.
Maximum Overnight Stays: Not applicable. Short-term rests only.
Picnic Tables: Yes, a few tables are available.
Potable Water: Not available.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Generally good, particularly with Telstra, due to the height.
TV Reception: Variable.
Onsite Public Toilets: Not available.
Ullage / Dump Point: Not available onsite.
Drive Through: No, it is a small pull-in bay.
Rubbish Bins: Not available. Please take all rubbish with you.
Open Fires: Prohibited.
Generator Use: Not appropriate for this location.
Number of Sites Available: Very limited space for 3-4 vehicles.
Essentials to Bring: Camera, water, and snacks for a picnic.
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash in the rest area.
Fishing: Not available at this location.
Short Walks: Informal walks around the lookout area to take in the views.

Local Amenities (in Dorrigo, approx. 3km west)

Pubs & Eateries

The Hotel Dorrigo: A classic country pub with a bistro and accommodation.
Dorrigo RSL Club: Offers bistro meals and refreshments.
Components Cafe: A popular spot for coffee, breakfast, and lunch.
Dorrigo has several other cafes, bakeries, and a supermarket for supplies.

Local Attractions

Dorrigo Rainforest Centre & Skywalk Lookout: Approx. 5km west. A must-visit in the Dorrigo National Park.
Dangar Falls: Approx. 5km north of the rest area. A beautiful waterfall with a viewing platform and swimming hole.
Dorrigo Steam Railway and Museum: A significant collection of railway history (check for opening times).

Caravanning & Camping Supplies

Nearest Caravan Parks: Dorrigo Mountain Holiday Park.
Next Free Camps: Limited free camping in the immediate area. Further options exist towards Bellingen or Armidale.
Nearest Dump Points: Check with the Dorrigo Mountain Holiday Park (a fee may apply for non-guests).
Nearest Petrol Station: Service stations are available in Dorrigo.
Drinking Water Resupply: Check for public taps in Dorrigo, possibly at a park or service station.
Nearest Public Toilets: Public toilets are available in the main street of Dorrigo and at the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Dorrigo Plateau has a subtropical highland climate and is one of the wettest places in New South Wales, contributing to its lush rainforests. Summers are warm and humid with high rainfall, often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. Winters are cool and crisp, with cold nights that can bring frost, but often clear, sunny days. Autumn and spring are generally mild and pleasant. Visitors should always be prepared for rain and rapidly changing weather conditions at any time of year. The road can become slippery in wet conditions.