Mendooran Rest Area is a beloved spot for campers, travelers, and tourists. Located in Central Western New South Wales, this rest area offers a peaceful camping experience by the beautiful Castlereagh River. Its convenient location and variety of amenities make it a popular choice for those looking for a quiet getaway in nature.
| Cost: FREE | |
| Address: River Street, Mendooran NSW | GPS: -31.8244, 149.1147 |
| Toilets: Yes | Showers: Yes, cold water |
| Camp Fires: Yes | Max Stay: 48 hours |
| Road Access: Good | Water: Yes |
| Number of Sites: 20+ | Power Available: No |
| Dog Friendly: Yes | Big Rigs: Yes |
In this guide, we will cover:
- The amenities and camping facilities available at Mendooran Rest Area
- The natural beauty surrounding the site
- Essential camping guidelines and nearby attractions
- Detailed directions to find Mendooran Rest Area
- Information about Mendooran township and its nearby amenities
Exploring Nearby Attractions
For those who want to explore more places around Mendooran, here are two options worth considering:
- Dubbo: A city with plenty of exciting things to do such as wildlife encounters, historical tours, and serene gardens.
- Bathurst, NSW: A destination where you can immerse yourself in both the past and present through its rich history and modern attractions.
Both Dubbo and Bathurst offer unique experiences that can complement your visit to Mendooran.
By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need about Mendooran Rest Area, as well as insights into Dubbo and Bathurst, to plan an enjoyable trip.
1. Amenities and Camping Facilities at Mendooran Rest Area
Mendooran Rest Area offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for all visitors. The facilities include:
- Flushing Toilets: Separate male and female toilets are available, providing a clean and convenient option for travelers.
- Cold Showers: While the showers are cold only, they are spacious with a large cubicle and concrete floor. Note that the lock on the shower door may be broken but the area is kept clean.
- Picnic Tables: Several picnic tables are scattered throughout the rest area, perfect for meals or simply relaxing outdoors.
- Fire Pits: Designated fire pits allow for safe campfires, adding to the camping experience, especially during cooler nights.
- Rubbish Bins: Conveniently placed bins help maintain cleanliness in the area.
Drinking Water
Drinking water is accessible from a small tank equipped with two taps. The source of this water includes both river water and tank water, as indicated by handwritten labels. This provision ensures you can stay hydrated during your visit.
Accessibility
The rest area is designed to accommodate various types of vehicles:
- Motorbikes
- RVs
- Camper trailers
- Caravans
- Big rigs
This inclusivity makes Mendooran Rest Area an ideal stop for all kinds of travelers.
Pet-Friendly Policy
Pets are welcome at Mendooran Rest Area under specific guidelines. Dogs must remain under their owner’s command at all times to ensure safety and comfort for all visitors. This policy allows campers to enjoy their trip with their furry friends.
2. Exploring the Natural Beauty of Mendooran Rest Area and Surroundings
Mendooran Rest Area is located by the peaceful Castlereagh River in New South Wales, providing a picturesque setting for nature enthusiasts. Here’s what you can expect to find:
Fishing and Boating on the River
The calm waters of the Castlereagh River are perfect for fishing and boating activities, attracting both anglers and water lovers.
Tranquil Campsites by the River
Stay at one of the campsites right by the river at Mendooran Rest Area for an immersive nature experience. The soothing sounds of flowing water and the shade from surrounding trees create a serene atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
Magical Mornings by the River
Wake up to a mystical scene as morning mist hovers over the river, adding a touch of enchantment to your camping adventure.
Abundant Bird Life for Bird Watchers
Bird watchers will be delighted by the diverse bird species that call Mendooran Rest Area home. Keep an eye out for noisy Cockatoos during dawn, making it a great opportunity for bird photography and observation.
A Nature Lover’s Paradise
With its stunning landscapes, recreational activities, and thriving wildlife, Mendooran Rest Area is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature.
3. Making the Most of Your Stay: Camping Guidelines and Nearby Attractions
Adhering to the 48-Hour Limit
When camping at Mendooran Rest Area, it’s important to adhere to the 48-hour limit for a sustainable environment and to allow more travelers to enjoy the area. Staying within this timeframe not only helps maintain the rest area’s availability for everyone but also ensures a fair and enjoyable experience for all campers.
Exploring Junction Camping Rest Area
For those seeking a more extended stay beyond the 48-hour limit, or simply looking for an alternative nearby, the Junction Camping Rest Area is an excellent choice. This rest area offers similar amenities and scenic views just a short drive away from Mendooran. It provides an ideal opportunity to extend your camping experience without overstaying at Mendooran.
Reviews and Ratings by Seasoned Travelers
Mendooran Rest Area has garnered high ratings from seasoned travelers who have experienced its charm firsthand. These positive reviews highlight its cleanliness, accessibility, and serene environment which make it a top choice for camping enthusiasts in Central Western New South Wales. Some of the features that travelers often praise include:
- Clean and well-maintained facilities: Including flushing toilets and cold showers.
- Scenic riverfront location: Perfect for relaxation and bird watching.
- Accessibility: Suitable for all vehicle types including RVs and big rigs.
4. Finding Mendooran Rest Area: GPS Coordinates and Directions
Navigating to Mendooran Rest Area is straightforward with the following GPS coordinates: -31.823967 latitude and 149.115482 longitude.
Location Details:
- Behind the Police Station: The rest area is conveniently located behind the local police station, ensuring a sense of security and ease of access.
- Opposite the Hotel: Situated directly opposite the hotel, this rest area is easy to find and close to essential amenities.
With these precise coordinates and location details, you can effortlessly plan your journey to Mendooran Rest Area.
Exploring Mendooran Township and Nearby Amenities
Mendooran township, located in Central Western New South Wales, has a fascinating history and friendly community. Visitors can find the following amenities:
- Police station
- Hotel
- Charming pub perfect for unwinding after a day of travel
- Several shops conveniently located within the village for supplies
For those needing to freshen up, there are shower facilities available near the rest area, providing added comfort during your stay. This combination of amenities ensures that travelers have everything they need within easy reach while exploring the natural beauty surrounding Mendooran Rest Area.
Personal Reflections on My Stay at Mendooran Rest Area
My camping experience at Mendooran Rest Area was unexpectedly amazing. I arrived on a hot afternoon and encountered a problem with my generator. Instead of letting it ruin my mood, the friendly locals came to the rescue. They suggested a nearby supplier where I could quickly get a replacement, and that’s how I got introduced to the reliable Honda generator.
This small hiccup turned out to be a memorable experience because it allowed me to connect with the warm and welcoming community of Mendooran. The peacefulness of being by the Castlereagh River and the sight of various bird species, like the Cockatoos that greeted me every morning, made my stay even more special.
The combination of breathtaking views and kind-hearted locals truly left a mark on me.
Conclusion
Including Mendooran Rest Area in your travel itinerary ensures you’ll experience its scenic beauty and top-notch camping facilities. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to camping, this rest area offers something for everyone.
Key Highlights:
- Pet-Friendly Camping: Enjoy the flexibility of bringing your furry friends along, with guidelines ensuring a safe environment for all.
- Bird Watching: The abundance of bird life, including early morning Cockatoos, makes it a paradise for nature lovers.
- Amenities: Access to flushing toilets, cold showers, picnic tables, fire pits, and rubbish bins enhance the camping experience.
Exploring other recommended rest areas in the region can add diversity to your camping adventures. Each site offers unique features and scenic surroundings worth experiencing.
Responsible travel is essential. Leaving no trace and respecting the natural environment ensures these beautiful locations remain pristine for future visitors.
Plan your visit to Mendooran Rest Area and immerse yourself in its tranquil setting and excellent facilities.
Happy Camping!
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Leilani Boughton
2 weeks agoExcellent for a free camp ground. Toilets were clean, plenty of room and a small off-leash dog area made this a perfect spot for a stop over for us.
JASON WILLIAMS
in the last weekGreat spot to camp. Plenty of space for all size rigs. Toilets and shower could use a clean but they work. Dump point on site and bins for the rubbish. Only a short walk into town. Will definitely stay again if passing through
Andrew MacDonald
a month agoGood camping area,dump point amenities 3 out of 5 could do with an update
Heidi Jones
4 months agoHeaps of room. The bathroom was covered in big moths. This rooster was roaming around crowing in the wee hours of the morning. Then he roosted in the trees right outside the ladies toilet.
Gary Tayler (GT)
a year agoGreat camp ground beside the river. Plenty of vans in but a big area, so no problems getting a spacious spot. Good amenities, but only cold showers. Police station on edge of grounds. Went to local Cafe for our cuppas. Was great tasting, value and staff friendly