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Wang Wauk Rest Area
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Wang Wauk Rest Area, Wang Wauk NSW

Wang Wauk Rest Area, Wang Wauk NSW

The Wang Wauk Rest Area is a large, modern, and essential free camping facility located on the Pacific Highway (M1) in the Wang Wauk State Forest, on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales. With separate, mirrored facilities on both the northbound and southbound carriageways, it serves as a rest stop for travelers journeying between Newcastle and Port Macquarie. Situated between the towns of Bulahdelah and Nabiac, this rest area is perfectly designed for the high volume of traffic on this major route. It features dedicated, separate parking lanes for light vehicles like cars and caravans, and heavy vehicles such as B-double trucks, which greatly enhances safety and reduces noise for those staying overnight.

Nestled amongst the tall gums of the state forest, Wang Wauk offers a pleasant bushland setting that feels a world away from the busy highway it services. The amenities are of a high standard, including large, clean public toilet blocks, numerous sheltered picnic tables, and rubbish bins. The entire site is sealed with asphalt, providing a clean and level surface for all vehicles. The surrounding forest is perfect for walking pets on a leash, offering a great opportunity to stretch the legs after a long drive. Mobile phone coverage for all major carriers is excellent, as is digital TV reception. As is typical for highway rest areas, travellers must be fully self-sufficient with their own drinking water, and there is no dump point on-site. The nearby towns of Bulahdelah and Nabiac offer a range of services including fuel, pubs, cafes, and basic groceries. For a safe, spacious, and scenic free stop on the Pacific Highway, Wang Wauk Rest Area is a first-rate choice.

Wang Wauk Rest Area – NSW Location Map

  • Name: Wang Wauk Rest Area
  • Address: Pacific Highway, Wang Wauk NSW 2423, Australia
  • GPS Coordinates: -32.15432, 152.32232

Site Information

  • Location: On the Pacific Highway (M1), roughly halfway between Bulahdelah and Nabiac. Facilities are on both northbound and southbound sides.
  • Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, including the largest caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs.
  • Road Access: Sealed highway.
  • Site Surface: Asphalt/Bitumen.
  • Camping Permitted: No.
  • Maximum Overnight Stays: Rest Area Only
  • Facilities: Public toilets, sheltered picnic tables, rubbish bins.
  • Picnic Tables: Yes, multiple modern, sheltered tables available.
  • Potable Water: No. Be self-sufficient.
  • Mobile Phone Coverage: Excellent for all major carriers.
  • TV Reception: Excellent digital TV reception.
  • Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, large modern amenities blocks on both sides.
  • Ullage / Dump Point: Not available on site.
  • Drive Through Sites: Yes, with separate, clearly marked loops for cars/caravans and heavy vehicles.
  • Rubbish Bins: Yes.
  • Open Fires: Strictly prohibited.
  • Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for others. Truck bays are well-separated from caravan parking.
  • Number of Sites Available: Very large, with dozens of marked and unmarked spaces on each side of the highway.
  • Essentials to Bring: Drinking water and all personal supplies.
  • Pet Friendly: Yes, pets must be leashed. The adjacent state forest provides good walking areas.
  • Fishing: Not available at the rest area.
  • Short Walks: Yes, pathways within the rest area and informal tracks into the surrounding Wang Wauk State Forest.

Local Amenities

Pubs

  • Bulahdelah Bowling Club, Bulahdelah: A large, friendly club with a bistro (approx. 20km).
  • The Plough Inn Hotel, Bulahdelah: A classic pub in the heart of town (approx. 20km).
  • The Nabiac Hotel, Nabiac: A great country pub with a popular restaurant (approx. 15km).

Places to Eat

  • Bulahdelah: Offers several cafes, bakeries, pubs, and fast-food outlets including McDonald’s.
  • Nabiac: Has a number of excellent cafes, a bakery, and takeaway food options.

Local Attractions

  • Bulahdelah Mountain Aboriginal Place: Features a walking track with cultural significance and great views.
  • The National Motorcycle Museum, Nabiac: A must-see attraction for any motoring enthusiast.
  • Myall Lakes National Park: A vast and beautiful lake system accessible from Bulahdelah, perfect for boating and kayaking.
  • Seal Rocks: A spectacular coastal village with a historic lighthouse, a worthwhile detour.

Nearest Caravan Parks

  • Bulahdelah Cabin & Van Park: Located in the town of Bulahdelah on the Myall River.
  • Nerong Inlet Holiday Park: A quiet park located on the shores of the Myall Lakes.

Next Free Camps

  • Four Mile Hill Rest Area (Southbound): The next major rest area south of Taree.
  • Bulahdelah Lions Park: A well-known donation camp in the town of Bulahdelah.

Nearest Dump Points

  • Bulahdelah Showground: A public dump point is available for travellers.
  • Nabiac Showground: A public dump point is also available here.

Nearest Petrol Station

  • Bulahdelah and Nabiac: Both towns have service stations with all fuel types located just off the highway.

Drinking Water Resupply

  • Bulahdelah Visitor Information Centre: A reliable location to fill RV water tanks.

Nearest Public Toilets (offsite)

  • Bulahdelah Lions Park: Public toilets are located at the camping area in town.
  • Nabiac Showground: Public toilets available in the village.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Great Lakes region enjoys a temperate coastal climate with warm summers and mild winters.

  • Summer (Dec – Feb): Warm to hot and humid, with average temperatures from 20°C to 28°C. Perfect for enjoying the nearby lakes and coast.
  • Autumn (Mar – May): A beautiful time to visit, with warm sunny days and less humidity.
  • Winter (Jun – Aug): Mild and generally sunny, with daytime temperatures averaging 8°C to 19°C. Nights are cool.
  • Spring (Sep – Nov): Weather warms up with pleasant days, ideal for exploring the state forests and national parks.

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