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South of Bourke Rest Area
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South of Bourke Rest Area, Kidman Way, Bourke NSW

South of Bourke Rest Area, Kidman Way, Bourke NSW

Your Gateway to the ‘Back O’ Bourke’

The South of Bourke Rest Area is a perfectly positioned free camping spot for travellers exploring the legendary Kidman Way. Located just a few kilometres south of the historic outback town of Bourke, it serves as an ideal staging point before venturing into the heart of town or as a final, convenient stop before continuing your journey south. This large, practical rest area offers the best of both worlds: a peaceful, no-cost overnight stay with the full suite of services, supplies, and attractions of a major outback hub right on your doorstep. For those arriving after a long drive, it’s a welcome sight, providing a safe and spacious area to relax and plan your visit to this iconic corner of New South Wales.

Suitable for all types of self-contained vehicles, from large motorhomes to campervans, the site is a simple, unsealed area that offers plenty of room to find a level spot. The facilities are basic, with toilets and picnic tables provided, which is all that’s needed given its incredible proximity to Bourke. Travellers can easily unhitch their caravan or leave their motorhome set up and make the short drive into town to visit the supermarket, refuel, top up water supplies, or enjoy a meal at one of the classic outback pubs. This convenience is the site’s greatest asset. It allows for a budget-friendly stay without sacrificing access to essentials. Whether you’re in town to see the Back O’ Bourke Exhibition Centre, take a cruise on the Darling River, or simply soak up the atmosphere, the South of Bourke Rest Area is a smart and practical choice.

South of Bourke Rest Area – NSW Location Map

  • Name: South of Bourke Rest Area
  • Address: Kidman Way, Bourke NSW 2840
  • GPS Coordinates: -30.11987, 145.933

Site Details

  • Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, Camper Trailers, Tents.
  • Road Access: Sealed highway (Kidman Way).
  • Site Surface: Dirt and gravel.
  • Camping Permitted: Yes.
  • Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
  • Number of Sites Available: Large open area with 30+ unpowered sites.
  • Pet Friendly: Yes.
  • Fishing: Available in the nearby Darling River in Bourke.
  • Short Walks: Plenty of space to walk around the rest area.

Facilities

  • Picnic Tables: Yes.
  • Potable Water: No. You must bring your own or source it in Bourke.
  • Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra, variable 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 supply of drinking water.
  • Levelling blocks may be useful on the unsealed ground.

Local Amenities (in nearby Bourke, approx. 3-5 km north)

Pubs

  • Port of Bourke Hotel: An iconic pub with a rich history and cold beer.
  • The Oxford Hotel: A classic country pub offering meals and accommodation.
  • Bourke Bowling Club: A large club with dining, bar, and entertainment facilities.

Places to Eat

  • Bistro meals at the local pubs and clubs.
  • Morrall’s Bakery for pies and pastries.
  • Various cafes and takeaway shops along the main street.

Local Attractions

  • Back O’ Bourke Exhibition & Visitor Information Centre.
  • PV Jandra paddleboat cruises on the Darling River.
  • Mount Oxley (4WD access required).

Caravan Parks

  • Kidman’s Camp.
  • Mitchell Caravan Park.

Next Free Camps

  • Rest areas north of Bourke on the Kidman Way.
  • Rest areas south towards Byrock.

Services

  • Nearest Dump Point: Available at commercial caravan parks in Bourke (fee may apply).
  • Nearest Petrol Station: Multiple service stations in Bourke.
  • Drinking Water Resupply: Check at the Back O’ Bourke Visitor Information Centre.
  • Public Toilets: On-site and also in Central Park, Bourke.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Outback NSW

  • Summer (Dec-Feb): Very hot and often humid, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C. High chance of thunderstorms.
  • Autumn (Mar-May): The premium travel season, with warm, sunny days and pleasant nights.
  • Winter (Jun-Aug): Mild, sunny days with cold nights and frosts.
  • Spring (Sep-Nov): Conditions are warm and generally pleasant for travel, but can heat up quickly.

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