Ravensworth Rest Area Eastbound, Sturt Hwy, Maude NSW

A Convenient Stop Before the Hay Plains

The Ravensworth Rest Area Eastbound is a convenient and practical free camping spot located on the Sturt Highway in the Riverina region of New South Wales. Positioned approximately 25 kilometres east of the major service town of Hay, it’s an ideal location for travellers heading towards Sydney to take a final rest before tackling the long, straight stretches of the famous Hay Plains. It serves as an important fatigue management zone, offering a safe and easily accessible place for all types of travellers, from truck drivers to families in caravans, to pull over for a short break or a 24-hour overnight stay.

The rest area is a simple, unsealed drive-through area set amongst native trees, which provide some welcome shade during the hotter months. The layout is suitable for a range of self-contained vehicles, including motorhomes and camper trailers. While the facilities are basic, they cover the essentials for a comfortable stop, with picnic tables and rubbish bins provided. One of the key advantages of this site is its close proximity to Hay. Campers can enjoy a quiet night in a bush setting while knowing that all the necessary services—such as supermarkets, petrol stations, pubs, and cafes—are just a short drive away. This makes it easy to resupply before continuing your journey. For those looking for a no-fuss, cost-free, and conveniently located stopover on the Sturt Highway, the Ravensworth Rest Area is a solid and reliable choice.

Ravensworth Rest Area Eastbound – NSW Location Map

Name: Ravensworth Rest Area Eastbound
Address: Sturt Hwy, Maude NSW 2711
GPS Coordinates: -34.63133, 144.29507

Site Details

Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, 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: Approximately 10-15 unpowered sites.
Pet Friendly: Yes.
Fishing: Not on-site, but excellent fishing is available in the Murrumbidgee River at Hay.
Short Walks: Yes, around the immediate rest area.

Facilities

Picnic Tables: Yes.
Potable Water: No. You must bring your own or source it in Hay.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra.
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.
Your own toilet facilities as none are provided on site.
Levelling blocks may be useful for some spots.

Local Amenities (in nearby Hay, approx. 25 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

St Pauls Rest Area: Approximately 15 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: Not on-site. Available in Hay.

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.