West Bound Rest Area | Free Camping on the Princes Freeway (M1)

Strategically positioned on the westbound lanes of the Princes Freeway (M1), this rest area serves as a vital stopping point for travellers venturing out of Geelong towards the scenic wonders of south-west Victoria. Located near the rural locality of Moriac, it is the perfect spot to take a break after navigating the city traffic, allowing drivers to pause before continuing their journey towards Colac, Warrnambool, or the iconic Great Ocean Road. As a designated rest area, it provides a safe, legal, and cost-free option for an overnight stay, which is crucial for managing driver fatigue on longer trips.

The site itself is practical and no-frills, designed for functionality and convenience. It features a long, sealed drive-through layout that makes access incredibly easy for all vehicle sizes, from passenger cars to large caravans and motorhomes. Ample space is available, though it is unmarked, allowing travellers to find a suitable spot with relative ease. The ground is predominantly bitumen, ensuring a solid footing in all weather conditions. The essential amenities provided include public toilets and rubbish bins. As there is no potable water available, it’s imperative for visitors to bring their own supplies for drinking and cooking. Given its location adjacent to a major freeway, some traffic noise is present but it’s a worthwhile trade-off for the safety and convenience offered. For those embarking on a Great Ocean Road adventure or exploring the volcanic plains of western Victoria, this rest area is an excellent and highly practical first stop.

Location Details

• Name: West Bound Rest Area
• Address: Princes Freeway (Westbound), Moriac, Victoria, Australia

• GPS Coordinates: -38.216338, 144.265794

• Website: Not available

Site Information

• Location: Directly off the westbound lanes of the Princes Freeway (M1), approximately 20km west of Geelong.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, cars, campervans, caravans, and big rigs.
• Road Access: Sealed (bitumen), direct freeway access.
• Site Surface: Bitumen.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, overnight stays are permitted.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours recommended.
• Facilities: Basic, no power or showers.
• Potable Water: No, bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good to excellent coverage for all major carriers.
• TV Reception: Strong digital TV signal.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Strictly not permitted.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for others.
• Number of Sites Available: Unmarked, large open area. Approx 20+ spaces.
• Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, food, cooking equipment.

Local Amenities & Services

• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets must be on a leash.
• Fishing: Barwon River in Winchelsea (approx. 15 km) or coastal fishing at Torquay (approx. 20 km).
• Short Walks: Barwon River walk in Winchelsea, or coastal cliff walks in Torquay.

• Local Pubs:
  • Mount Moriac Hotel (approx. 5 km)
  • Winchelsea Hotel (approx. 15 km)
  • Union Hotel, Colac (approx. 50 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Large variety of options in Geelong (approx. 20 km east)
  • Cafes and bakeries in Winchelsea (approx. 15 km west)
• Local Attractions:
  • Gateway to the Great Ocean Road, starting at Torquay (approx. 20 km)
  • Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre (approx. 25 km)
  • Geelong Waterfront (approx. 20 km)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • Geelong Showgrounds (approx. 20 km)
  • Numerous parks in Geelong and Torquay.
• Next Free Camps:
  • Meredith Park, Lake Colac (approx. 55 km west)
  • Inverleigh Rest Area (approx. 25 km north)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • Geelong Showgrounds (fee may apply) (approx. 20 km)
  • BP Service Centre, Little River (Eastbound) (approx. 45 km)
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • BP Service Centre, Corio (eastbound, approx. 30 km)
  • Multiple stations in Geelong suburbs (Waurn Ponds) (approx. 15 km)
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Service stations in Geelong often have water taps (ask for permission).
• Nearest Public Toilets:
  • Onsite
  • Winchelsea Visitor Information Centre (approx. 15 km)

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Geelong/Surf Coast Area

• Summer (Dec-Feb): Warm with cooling sea breezes. Temperatures typically 15°C to 28°C, but can reach over 35°C.
• Autumn (Mar-May): Mild and calm. Temperatures range from 10°C to 24°C. Generally pleasant weather.
• Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often overcast with some rain. Temperatures average 7°C to 15°C.
• Spring (Sep-Nov): Becomes warmer but can be windy. Temperatures range from 9°C to 21°C. A mix of sunshine and showers.