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Netallie Hill Rest Area, 1580 Barrier Hwy, Wilcannia NSW

Elevated Views in the Heart of the Outback

Netallie Hill Rest Area is a standout free camping location on the Barrier Highway, offering travellers breathtaking panoramic views across the vast plains of Far West New South Wales. Situated between the iconic outback centres of Wilcannia and Broken Hill, this spot is more than just a place to rest; it’s a destination in its own right for those who appreciate expansive landscapes. The rest area is set at the base of Netallie Hill, and a short walk to the summit rewards visitors with an unforgettable 360-degree vista, making it a perfect spot for sunrise or sunset photography. It’s an ideal stop for fully self-contained travellers seeking solitude, safety, and a deep connection with the remote Australian environment.

The camping area is a large, open, and relatively flat expanse of dirt and gravel, providing ample room for all types of vehicles, from big rigs to campervans, to find a private spot. Its location, well off the main highway, ensures a peaceful night’s sleep with minimal traffic noise. The facilities are basic, catering to the self-sufficient traveller with toilets and picnic tables. As is typical for this arid region, there is no potable water, and mobile phone reception is virtually non-existent, so it’s crucial to arrive fully prepared. For those equipped for remote travel, Netallie Hill provides a memorable experience. The clear, dark night skies offer an incredible display of stars, and the sense of space and isolation is profound. For a scenic and tranquil 24-hour break on the long drive west, Netallie Hill is a truly special outback gem.

Netallie Hill Rest Area – NSW Map

Name: Netallie Hill Rest Area
Address: 1580 Barrier Hwy, Wilcannia NSW 2836
GPS Coordinates: -31.56849, 143.21726

Site Details

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: Large open area, 30+ unpowered sites.
Pet Friendly: Yes.
Fishing: Not available.
Short Walks: Excellent walk to the top of Netallie Hill for panoramic views.

Facilities

Picnic Tables: Yes.
Potable Water: No. You must bring your own complete water supply.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Extremely limited to non-existent.
TV Reception: Very unlikely.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes (long drop style).
Rubbish Bins: Yes.
Open Fires: Prohibited.
Generator Use: Permitted, with courtesy to other campers.

Essentials to Bring

A substantial supply of drinking water for your entire stay.
All food, cooking supplies, and emergency provisions.
A full tank of fuel from the last major town.
Sturdy walking shoes to climb the hill.

Local Amenities (in Wilcannia, approx. 65km east, or Broken Hill, approx. 135km west)

Pubs

Little Topar Hotel: A classic outback pub located east of the rest area (check opening times).
Wilcannia Golf Club: Offers bar and meal facilities.
Palace Hotel (Broken Hill): Famous historic pub.

Places to Eat

Little Topar Roadhouse: Fuel and basic takeaway food.
Wilcannia Roadhouse: Takeaway food and basic groceries.
Numerous options in Broken Hill.

Local Attractions

The view from Netallie Hill itself.
Historic Darling River and buildings in Wilcannia.
Living Desert Sculptures and Pro Hart Gallery in Broken Hill.

Caravan Parks

Warrawong on the Darling (Wilcannia).
Multiple caravan parks in Broken Hill.

Next Free Camps

Dolo Hill Rest Area: Approximately 40 km west.
Baden Park Rest Area (near Wilcannia): Approximately 65 km east.

Services

Nearest Dump Point: Available at caravan parks in Broken Hill or Wilcannia (fees may apply).
Nearest Petrol Station: Little Topar Roadhouse (limited hours); full services in Broken Hill and Wilcannia.
Drinking Water Resupply: At visitor centres or service stations in Broken Hill or Wilcannia.
Public Toilets: On-site.

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 ample water.
Autumn (Mar-May): Warm days and cooler nights make this the prime season for outback travel.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Mild and sunny days with very cold nights and regular frosts.
Spring (Sep-Nov): Pleasant and warm, a great time to see wildflowers after rain.