Wallagaraugh River Rest Area, Princes Highway

The Wallagaraugh River Rest Area is a large, well-equipped, and popular free camping spot located on the Princes Highway in the magnificent Timbillica State Forest. Situated just north of the Victoria-New South Wales border, it serves as a vital first stop for those entering NSW or a final rest for those heading south. Its expansive, shady grounds are nestled beside the tranquil Wallagaraugh River, offering a serene and picturesque environment that provides a genuine escape from the highway. This is far more than a simple rest stop; it’s a destination in its own right for travellers seeking a comfortable and scenic place to break their journey.

The rest area is incredibly accommodating, with a large, sealed, drive-through design suitable for all vehicle types, from the smallest campervan to the largest big-rig truck and caravan combinations. Unlike many primitive highway camps, this site features a valuable toilet block, covered picnic tables, and rubbish bins, significantly enhancing its appeal for overnight stays. Free camping is permitted for up to 24 hours, making it a favourite for budget travellers exploring the stunning Sapphire Coast. The river itself offers opportunities for fishing, and the surrounding state forest provides a beautiful backdrop for a short walk and birdwatching. While it’s a fantastic spot, visitors must be self-sufficient with their own drinking water and power. The nearest major town for supplies is the historic whaling port of Eden, approximately 35 kilometres to the north, where you can find supermarkets, fuel, pubs, and a range of tourist attractions.

Wallagaraugh River – NSW Location Map

Name: Wallagaraugh River Rest Area
Address: Princes Highway, Timbillica NSW 2551, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -37.36938, 149.71492

Site Information

Location: On the Princes Highway (A1), approximately 35km south of Eden, near the NSW/VIC border.
Site Suitable For: All vehicle sizes, including Big Rigs.
Road Access: Sealed highway access.
Site Surface: Sealed (asphalt) and gravel/dirt areas.
Camping Permitted: Yes, free overnight camping is permitted.
Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
Picnic Tables: Yes, several covered tables are available.
Potable Water: Not available.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Can be limited and variable depending on the carrier. A booster may be required.
TV Reception: Variable due to the forest location.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a toilet block is available.
Ullage / Dump Point: Not available onsite.
Drive Through: Yes, a large and easy drive-through layout.
Rubbish Bins: Yes, bins are provided.
Open Fires: Not permitted. Be aware of local fire bans.
Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of other campers.
Number of Sites Available: Large unmarked area with space for many vehicles.
Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, power source.
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
Fishing: Possible in the Wallagaraugh River. A NSW fishing licence is required.
Short Walks: Informal walks around the rest area and through the adjacent state forest.

Local Amenities

Pubs & Eateries

Genoa Hotel: Approximately 15 km south in Genoa, VIC.
Great Southern Hotel: Approximately 35 km north in Eden, NSW.
Hotel Australasia: Approximately 35 km north in Eden, NSW.
A wide range of cafes and restaurants are available in Eden.

Local Attractions

Eden Killer Whale Museum: Approximately 36 km north in Eden.
Ben Boyd National Park (Beowa National Park): Various access points north of the rest area.
Port of Eden Wharf: Approximately 36 km north in Eden, great for fresh seafood.

Caravanning & Camping Supplies

Nearest Caravan Parks: Numerous parks available in and around Eden (approx. 35 km).
Next Free Camps: Various rest areas further north towards Merimbula or south towards Cann River.
Nearest Dump Points: Eden Gateway Holiday Park or Garden of Eden Caravan Park (fee may apply).
Nearest Petrol Station: Service stations in Eden (approx. 35 km north) or Cann River (approx. 35 km south).
Drinking Water Resupply: Public taps at parks or service stations in Eden.
Nearest Public Toilets: Available onsite.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The climate on the far South Coast of NSW is temperate and generally pleasant. Summers are warm without being excessively hot, making it ideal for exploring the coast. Winters are cool, with crisp nights and often clear, sunny days. It is one of the cooler parts of the NSW coast. Autumn and spring are mild and considered by many to be the best time to travel. Rainfall can occur at any time of year, so it’s always wise to be prepared for changing conditions, particularly given the forested location.