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Yanga Creek Rest Area
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Yanga Creek Rest Area, Yanga NSW

Yanga Creek Rest Area, Yanga NSW

A Creekside Gem on the Edge of Yanga National Park

The Yanga Creek Rest Area is a charming and highly sought-after free camping spot for travellers exploring the magnificent Riverina region of New South Wales. Perfectly located on the Sturt Highway just a few kilometres outside of Balranald, this site offers a unique blend of convenience and natural beauty. Its main drawcard is its picturesque setting alongside the tranquil Yanga Creek, which flows out of the Murrumbidgee River. The presence of water and shady river red gums creates a peaceful oasis, attracting a wonderful variety of birdlife and providing a welcome respite from the expansive, sun-drenched plains of the surrounding landscape.

This rest area is not just a place to sleep; it’s a destination. It serves as an unofficial gateway to the vast and historic Yanga National Park, home to the impressive Yanga Woolshed and countless waterways. The site itself is a compact, unsealed area suitable for caravans, motorhomes, and camper trailers, though its popularity means it can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. The facilities are basic, with toilets and picnic tables provided, so campers must be self-sufficient with their own drinking water. Its fantastic proximity to Balranald means that all essential services—from supermarkets and petrol stations to pubs and bakeries—are just a short drive away. For those who enjoy a spot of fishing, dropping a line in Yanga Creek can be a rewarding way to spend an afternoon. For a scenic, convenient, and memorable free camp, Yanga Creek Rest Area is one of the best options in the region.

Yanga Creek Rest Area – NSW Location Map

  • Name: Yanga Creek Rest Area
  • Address: Sturt Hwy, Yanga NSW 2711
  • GPS Coordinates: -34.70165, 143.59119

Site Details

  • Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Camper Trailers.
  • Road Access: Sealed highway (Sturt Highway).
  • Site Surface: Dirt and gravel.
  • Camping Permitted: Yes.
  • Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
  • Number of Sites Available: Approximately 10-15 unpowered sites.
  • Pet Friendly: Yes.
  • Fishing: Yes, in Yanga Creek. A NSW fishing licence is required.
  • Short Walks: Yes, along the creek bank and into the surrounding bushland.

Facilities

  • Picnic Tables: Yes.
  • Potable Water: No. You must bring your own or source it in Balranald.
  • Mobile Phone Coverage: Excellent for all major carriers.
  • TV Reception: Excellent.
  • Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
  • Rubbish Bins: Yes.
  • Open Fires: Prohibited.
  • Generator Use: Permitted, with courtesy to other campers due to the compact nature of the site.

Essentials to Bring

  • A full supply of drinking water.
  • Fishing gear if you plan to fish.
  • Insect repellent, as being near water can attract mosquitoes.

Local Amenities (in nearby Balranald, approx. 5 km)

Pubs

  • Home Hotel Balranald: A classic country pub with a friendly atmosphere.
  • Shamrock Hotel Balranald: Known for its good meals and historic building.
  • Balranald Ex-Services Club: A large club offering bistro dining, bars, and entertainment.

Places to Eat

  • Bistro dining at the local hotels and club.
  • Balranald Bakery for pies, pastries, and coffee.
  • Several cafes and takeaway food shops on the main street.

Local Attractions

  • Yanga National Park and the historic Yanga Woolshed.
  • The Murrumbidgee River and Balranald Weir for fishing and recreation.
  • Balranald Discovery Centre and Visitor Information.

Caravan Parks

  • Balranald Riverside Caravan Park.
  • Balranald Caravan Park.

Next Free Camps

  • Mallee Highway Junction Rest Area: Approximately 2 km away.
  • Prungle Mail Rest Area: Approximately 20 km east.

Services

  • Nearest Dump Point: Located behind the Theatre Royal in Balranald.
  • Nearest Petrol Station: Several service stations are available in Balranald.
  • Drinking Water Resupply: Available at the Balranald Visitor Information Centre.
  • Public Toilets: On-site.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Riverina Region

  • Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching the high 30s.
  • Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, sunny days and mild nights make this an ideal time to visit.
  • Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool to mild days with cold nights and frequent frosts.
  • Spring (Sep-Nov): Conditions are warm and generally pleasant, perfect for enjoying the outdoors.

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