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Yelgun Rest Area, Brunswick Valley Way, Billinudgel NSW

The Perfect Basecamp for Australia’s Most Easterly Point

Perfectly positioned at the gateway to the vibrant Byron Shire, the Yelgun Rest Area is one of the most strategically important and popular free camping spots on the entire Pacific Motorway. Located just south of the Tweed Valley and a stone’s throw from iconic destinations like Brunswick Heads, Byron Bay, and Mullumbimby, this large facility serves as an essential hub for travellers exploring Australia’s stunning Far North Coast. Often operating as a ‘Driver Reviver’ site during peak holiday periods, Yelgun is a well-maintained and safe stopover that allows visitors to rest and recharge before diving into the region’s famous beaches, lush hinterland, and eclectic towns.

The rest area is substantial, with a large, sealed bitumen area that is well-suited to all classes of vehicles, from campervans to the largest big rigs and caravans. While it can be busy due to its prime location, there is generally ample space for an overnight stay. The site is equipped with essential facilities for the self-sufficient traveller, including toilet blocks, sheltered picnic tables, and rubbish bins. As a pet-friendly location, it provides enough green space for dogs to stretch their legs after a long drive. Mobile phone coverage is excellent, which is a major advantage for planning local excursions. While there’s no potable water or power, the nearby towns of Billinudgel and Brunswick Heads offer easy access to all necessary supplies, including groceries, fuel, and cafes. For those looking for a convenient, no-cost base to explore the world-renowned beauty of the Byron region, Yelgun Rest Area is an unbeatable choice.

Yelgun Rest Area – NSW Map

Name: Yelgun Rest Area
Address: Brunswick Valley Way, Billinudgel NSW 2483
GPS Coordinates: -28.49194, 153.52277

Site Details

Site Suitable For: Caravans, Motorhomes, Big Rigs, Camper Trailers.
Road Access: Sealed highway (Pacific Motorway/Brunswick Valley Way). Accessible for both northbound and southbound traffic.
Site Surface: Bitumen.
Camping Permitted: Yes.
Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
Number of Sites Available: Very large area, approximately 40+ unpowered sites.
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome.
Fishing: Excellent fishing opportunities in the nearby Brunswick River and local beaches.
Short Walks: Plenty of space for walking around the rest area.

Facilities

Picnic Tables: Yes (sheltered).
Potable Water: No. Bring your own drinking water supply.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Excellent for all major carriers.
TV Reception: Good terrestrial reception.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
Rubbish Bins: Yes.
Open Fires: Strictly prohibited.
Generator Use: Permitted, but please be considerate of neighbours.

Essentials to Bring

A generous supply of drinking water.
All food and cooking supplies.
Beach gear and surfboards for exploring the local coastline.

Local Amenities

Pubs

Billinudgel Hotel: Approximately 5 km.
Hotel Brunswick, Brunswick Heads: Approximately 10 km.
The Middle Pub, Mullumbimby: Approximately 15 km.

Places to Eat

Brunswick Heads: Offers a wide array of cafes, restaurants, and the famous Bruns Bakery (approx. 10 km).
Billinudgel: Home to the delicious ‘Bills Fish and Chips’ (approx. 5 km).
Byron Bay: A massive selection of dining options for all tastes (approx. 25 km).

Local Attractions

Brunswick Heads Beach and River: Approximately 10 km.
Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens: Approximately 20 km.
Cape Byron Lighthouse, Byron Bay: Approximately 25 km.

Caravan Parks

Reflections Holiday Parks Ferry Reserve, Brunswick Heads: Approximately 10 km.
First Sun Holiday Park, Byron Bay: Approximately 25 km.
Crabbes Creek Caravan Park: Approximately 10 km.

Next Free Camps

New Italy Rest Area (Southbound): Approximately 80 km south.
Chinderah (Jack Evans) Rest Area (Northbound): Approximately 40 km north.

Services

Nearest Dump Point: Brunswick Heads South (Massey Greene) Caravan Park (approx. 10 km).
Nearest Petrol Station: Service stations on the Pacific Motorway at Yelgun and nearby in Billinudgel/Brunswick Heads.
Drinking Water Resupply: Available at parks in Brunswick Heads.
Public Toilets: Available in Brunswick Heads and Billinudgel town centres.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Byron Shire

Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and humid with a high chance of rainfall and tropical storms. Perfect for swimming.
Autumn (Mar-May): Warm, sunny days with lower humidity. Widely considered the best season to visit.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Mild, dry, and sunny days with cool nights. Ideal for whale watching.
Spring (Sep-Nov): Pleasant and warm, with temperatures and humidity rising towards summer.