Taylor Creek Rest Area is an important stop for travelers and campers on the Stuart Highway. Located 52 km south of Wycliffe Well and 40 km north of Barrow Creek, it provides a quiet escape in the midst of Northern Territory’s rugged scenery.
If you’re heading to Queensland instead, you might want to check out the Babinda Rest Area, which is a paradise for travelers and campers.
Key takeaway: Taylor Creek Rest Area is a convenient and well-equipped stop for travelers and campers. With free camping options, essential facilities, and a beautiful natural setting to relax in, it stands out as an ideal spot to rejuvenate during your travels.
Location and Accessibility
Taylor Creek Rest Area is conveniently located on the Stuart Highway, making it an ideal stop for travelers. You’ll find it 52 kilometers south of Wycliffe Well and 40 kilometers north of Barrow Creek in Davenport, NT.
Directions to Taylor Creek Rest Area from Nearby Towns
- From Wycliffe Well, head south on the Stuart Highway for approximately 52 kilometers. The rest area will be on your left.
- From Barrow Creek, drive north on the Stuart Highway for about 40 kilometers. The rest area will be on your right.
Road Access Conditions
The Stuart Highway is well-maintained and accessible to various vehicle types:
- Cars and SUVs: Smooth drive with sealed roads.
- Caravans and Campervans: Plenty of space for parking and maneuvering.
- Big Rigs: Suitable access, though limited shade may require planning for optimal parking spots.
GPS Coordinates: See map
Getting to Taylor Creek Rest Area is easy, making it a convenient place for a quick break or an overnight stay.
Facilities at Taylor Creek Rest Area
Taylor Creek Rest Area offers several facilities designed to make your stay comfortable and convenient. You will find:
- Picnic Tables: Ideal for enjoying a meal outdoors.
- Bins: Available to help maintain cleanliness.
Tank water is available at the rest area, but it’s advisable to treat it before drinking. Bring along a portable water filter or purification tablets for added safety. Alternatively, you might want to explore other water sources such as the Longreach Water Reserve, known for its rich history and stunning landscapes.
Camping Information at Taylor Creek Rest Area
Taylor Creek Rest Area offers free camping sites that cater to a variety of travelers. This rest area provides more than ten distinct camping spots, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a budget-friendly accommodation option along the Stuart Highway.
Amenities
- Showers: Available on-site, an added convenience for campers looking to freshen up after a long day on the road.
- Campfires: Permitted within designated areas, allowing you to enjoy a traditional camping experience.
While the rest area lacks power availability, the essential amenities ensure a comfortable stay. It’s important to come prepared with your own power sources if needed. The absence of power makes this location perfect for those who prefer a more rustic and self-sufficient camping experience.
Safety Guidelines and Regulations at Taylor Creek Rest Area
Ensuring a safe camping experience at Taylor Creek Rest Area involves adhering to essential campfire safety guidelines and understanding the maximum stay regulations.
Campfire Safety Guidelines
- Designated Areas: Always use designated fire pits or areas for campfires.
- Fire Size: Keep campfires small and manageable to prevent them from getting out of control.
- Supervision: Never leave campfires unattended. Ensure someone is always monitoring the fire.
- Extinguishing Fires: Completely extinguish the fire before leaving or going to sleep. Use water, dirt, or sand to put out the fire until it is cool to the touch.
Maximum Stay Regulations
Visitors should note that there is a maximum stay duration of up to 24 hours at Taylor Creek Rest Area. This regulation helps ensure that space is available for other travelers and maintains the area’s upkeep.
Adhering to these guidelines not only ensures your safety but also contributes to the preservation of this beautiful natural setting for future visitors.
Traveler Reviews of Taylor Creek Rest Area
Reviews of Taylor Creek Rest Area by travelers often highlight several key points:
Positive Aspects
- Cleanliness: Many travelers appreciate the cleanliness of the rest area. It is maintained well, ensuring a pleasant stay.
- Convenience: The location along the Stuart Highway makes it a convenient stop for those traveling between Wycliffe Well and Barrow Creek.
- Facilities: The availability of picnic tables and bins is frequently mentioned as a positive aspect, providing essential amenities for a comfortable break.
Drawbacks and Limitations
- Limited Shade: Some visitors note the limited shade at the rest area, which can be a downside during hotter months.
- Water Availability: While tank water is available, it’s advisable to treat it before drinking. This might be seen as an inconvenience for some travelers.
“A great stopover with all necessary facilities but could use more shaded areas,” says one traveler.
This feedback provides valuable insights into what you can expect when stopping at Taylor Creek Rest Area.
Tips for Travelers Visiting Taylor Creek Rest Area
For a successful stay at Taylor Creek Rest Area, consider these essential camping tips:
- Leave No Trace: Carry out all trash and dispose of it properly. Use the provided bins to keep the area clean.
- Respect Nature: Avoid disturbing wildlife and keep noise levels down to preserve the tranquility.
- Water Usage: Tank water is available, but it’s wise to treat it before drinking. Bring your own water supply if possible.
- Campfires: Only use designated fire pits and ensure fires are completely extinguished before leaving.
- Stay Limit: Remember that the maximum stay is 24 hours. Plan your journey accordingly.
Following these guidelines ensures a pleasant experience for you and future visitors.
Nearby Attractions Along the Stuart Highway You Shouldn’t Miss!
While traveling along the Stuart Highway, several attractions near Taylor Creek Rest Area are worth a visit:
- Wycliffe Well: Known as the UFO capital of Australia, it’s a quirky spot with alien-themed decor and a fascinating history.
- Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu): These massive granite boulders are an iconic natural landmark, offering stunning photo opportunities and short walking trails.
- Barrow Creek Telegraph Station: A historical site that provides insight into the early days of communication in the Outback.
- Adelaide River Show Society Caravan Park: This park serves as a gateway to numerous attractions, including the iconic Litchfield National Park, making it a perfect stop for travelers looking to explore more.
These stops add unique experiences to your journey along this famous route.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the significance of Taylor Creek Rest Area for travelers?
Taylor Creek Rest Area serves as a convenient and well-equipped stop for travelers and campers along the Stuart Highway. It offers free camping options, essential facilities, and a beautiful natural setting to relax in.
Where is Taylor Creek Rest Area located?
Taylor Creek Rest Area is located on the Stuart Highway, 52 km south of Wycliffe Well and 40 km north of Barrow Creek in Davenport NT.
What facilities are available at Taylor Creek Rest Area?
The rest area provides various facilities including picnic tables, bins, and access to tank water.
Is camping allowed at Taylor Creek Rest Area?
Yes, Taylor Creek Rest Area offers free camping sites. Campfires are permitted. However, there is no power availability.
What are the safety guidelines for camping at Taylor Creek Rest Area?
Campers should follow safety guidelines for campfires to ensure a safe experience. Additionally, there is a maximum stay regulation of up to 24 hours while visiting the rest area.
Are there any nearby attractions along the Stuart Highway?
Yes, there are interesting attractions and landmarks that can be explored during your journey along the Stuart Highway. It’s recommended to take some time to discover these spots while traveling.
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Daniel Nordberg
6 years agoA very basic but much appreciated road side stop parking/picnic/rest area. You can love this stop for the beautiful open, untamed Australian outback desertic countryside or hate it for the temperature, the flies or the kids fighting in the back-seat. The simplicity is its beauty and the vastity it's complexity.
Imogen Warren
2 years agoVery basic but adequate rest area. Not too much noise from the road and enough space for all the vehicles there.
Ramon Taglialavore
a month agonice rest area in the middle of nowhere.
Peter THOMAS
5 years agoOne of the better rest areas along the Stuart Highway. Has a public toilet. Also a mobile-phone signal enhancer that enable your phone to access the network, in an otherwise no-signal area.
Liz Noack
2 years agoA very popular free camp. Get there around lunchtime to get a good spot.