Mulberygong Rest Area, Sturt Hwy, Carrathool NSW

An Essential Stop on the Vast Hay Plains

The Mulberygong Rest Area is a large and critically important free camping spot on the Sturt Highway, located deep within the iconic Hay Plains of the NSW Riverina. Situated between the major regional towns of Hay and Narrandera, this rest area serves as a vital fatigue management zone for the thousands of travellers and truck drivers navigating one of Australia’s longest and straightest stretches of road. Its primary appeal is its sheer size and practicality, offering a safe, accessible, and cost-free place to rest and recuperate for 24 hours.

As a key stop for heavy vehicles, the rest area is designed for functionality, with a massive, unsealed area that can easily accommodate a large number of vehicles of all sizes, including the biggest rigs and caravans. Separate areas for trucks and recreational vehicles help to ensure a more peaceful night for campers. The facilities are basic but cover the essentials for a self-sufficient stay, including toilets, rubbish bins, and some sheltered picnic tables. As is typical for this remote region, there is no potable water on site, making it crucial for visitors to arrive with ample supplies. The landscape is quintessential Hay Plains—flat, vast, and stretching to a distant horizon, offering incredible sunsets and an unparalleled view of the night sky, free from any light pollution. For those making the long trek across the plains, the Mulberygong Rest Area is more than just a place to park; it’s a welcome and necessary oasis.

Mulberygong Rest Area – NSW Location Map

Name: Mulberygong Rest Area
Address: Sturt Hwy, Carrathool NSW 2711
GPS Coordinates: -34.51317, 145.24203

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: Very large area with 40+ unpowered sites.
Pet Friendly: Yes.
Fishing: Not available at this location.
Short Walks: Yes, around the vast, open grounds of the rest area.

Facilities

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

Essentials to Bring

A full supply of drinking water.
Ensure you have a full tank of fuel before leaving Hay or Narrandera.
All necessary food and cooking equipment.

Local Amenities (in nearby Hay, approx. 70 km west)

Pubs

The Commercial Hotel Hay: A classic Aussie pub with a popular bistro.
The Riverina Hotel: Another great option for a hearty meal and cold drink.
Hay Services Club: A large club offering extensive dining and bar facilities.

Places to Eat

Bistro dining at the local hotels and clubs.
Jappalou Cafe for coffee and light meals.
Several bakeries and takeaway shops on the main street.

Local Attractions

Shear Outback – The Australian Shearers Hall of Fame.
The Murrumbidgee River at Sandy Point Beach.
Bishop’s Lodge Historic House and Heritage Rose Garden.

Caravan Parks

Hay Plains Holiday Park.
Hay Riverside Caravan Park.

Next Free Camps

Pevensey Rest Area: Approximately 40 km west.
Rest areas further east towards Narrandera.

Services

Nearest Dump Point: Located at the Hay Visitor Information Centre.
Nearest Petrol Station: Numerous service stations are available in Hay.
Drinking Water Resupply: Available at the Hay Visitor Information Centre.
Public Toilets: On-site.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Riverina Region

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