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Whiterock Rest Area Westbound, Whiterock Rd, Hermidale NSW

A Classic Outback Stop on the Barrier Highway

The Whiterock Rest Area Westbound is a convenient and practical free camping spot situated on the Barrier Highway in outback New South Wales. Located near the small locality of Hermidale and roughly 35 kilometres west of the larger service town of Nyngan, it serves as an excellent overnight stop for travellers heading towards Cobar and Broken Hill. This is a quintessential roadside rest area, offering a safe and accessible place to pull over, rest, and break up the long and often hypnotic drive through the vast, semi-arid plains of the region. Its straightforward, no-fuss setup is perfect for self-contained caravans, motorhomes, and camper trailers.

The rest area consists of a large, sealed bitumen surface that provides plenty of level parking space, making it suitable even for big rigs. It is set a reasonable distance from the highway, which helps to reduce traffic noise during the night. The facilities are basic but functional, with toilets and sheltered picnic tables available for travellers. As with most free camps in this remote area, it’s essential to be self-sufficient, particularly regarding water, as there is no potable supply on site. The open space provides a great opportunity to witness a stunning outback sunset and a brilliant, starry night sky, far from the light pollution of any major towns. For those needing a simple, safe, and free place to recharge for 24 hours on the journey west, the Whiterock Rest Area is a reliable and well-placed option.

Whiterock Rest Area Westbound – NSW Map

Name: Whiterock Rest Area Westbound
Address: Barrier Hwy (near Whiterock Rd), Hermidale NSW 2831
GPS Coordinates: -31.54845, 146.7082

Site Details

Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, Camper Trailers.
Road Access: Sealed highway (Barrier Highway).
Site Surface: Bitumen.
Camping Permitted: Yes.
Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
Number of Sites Available: Large area, 15+ unpowered sites.
Pet Friendly: Yes.
Fishing: Not available at this location.
Short Walks: Space to walk around the rest area and immediate surrounds.

Facilities

Picnic Tables: Yes (sheltered).
Potable Water: No. You must bring your own drinking water.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Generally available for Telstra, may be weak for other carriers.
TV Reception: Variable, a booster may be required.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
Rubbish Bins: Yes.
Open Fires: Prohibited.
Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.

Essentials to Bring

A full supply of drinking water.
All necessary food and cooking equipment.
Ensure your vehicle is fuelled before leaving the last major town.

Local Amenities (in nearby Nyngan, approx. 35 km east)

Pubs

Australian Hotel Nyngan: A classic country pub with meals.
Nyngan RSL Club: Offers a bar, bistro, and other club facilities.
Barrett’s Hotel Nyngan: Another popular local hotel on the main street.

Places to Eat

Nyngan RSL Club Bistro.
Various cafes and bakeries on Pangee Street.
Takeaway food shops and service stations.

Local Attractions

The Big Bogan Statue, Nyngan.
Mid-State Shearing Shed Museum, Nyngan.
Nyngan Museum (in the historic railway station).

Caravan Parks

Nyngan Riverside Caravan Park.
Nyngan Van Park.

Next Free Camps

Meadow Glen Rest Area: Approximately 20 km west.
Various rest areas east towards Nyngan.

Services

Nearest Dump Point: Nyngan Showground.
Nearest Petrol Station: Multiple major service stations in Nyngan.
Drinking Water Resupply: Available in Nyngan, check with the local visitor centre.
Public Toilets: On-site and also located in parks in Nyngan.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Western NSW

Summer (Dec-Feb): Very hot and dry, with temperatures frequently exceeding 40°C.
Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, sunny days and cooler nights make this an ideal time for travel.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Mild, sunny days with cold nights and common frosts.
Spring (Sep-Nov): Temperatures increase, generally warm and pleasant.