The Glenrowan Southbound Rest Area is more than just a place to pull over; it’s a gateway to one of Australia’s most enduring legends. Located on the southbound lanes of the Hume Highway, this spacious free camp is directly adjacent to the historic township of Glenrowan, famed as the site of the Kelly Gang’s last stand. For travellers heading south to Melbourne, it offers an unmissable opportunity to combine essential driver fatigue management with a fascinating dive into Australian bushranger history. The rest area is large and well-suited for all types of vehicles, from cars and campervans to large motorhomes and caravans, with easy drive-through access.
The site itself is a long, sealed area providing a solid base for overnight stays. While the facilities are basic, they cover the necessities with a toilet block and rubbish bins available. One of the unique advantages of this location is its direct walking access to the Glenrowan township. A short stroll under the highway via an underpass brings you to the feet of the iconic six-metre-tall statue of Ned Kelly, along with the Ned Kelly Museum, the siege site, and various souvenir shops and cafes. This convenience allows travellers to stretch their legs and immerse themselves in the local attractions without needing to unhitch or move their vehicle. Due to its popularity and prime location, the rest area can be busy, especially during holiday periods, so arriving earlier in the day is advisable to secure a good spot. For a free, convenient, and culturally rich stopover, the Glenrowan Southbound Rest Area is a standout choice on the Hume Highway.
Glenrowan Rest Area Southbound – VIC Location Map
Glenrowan Rest Area Southbound
- Address: Hume Highway (Southbound), Glenrowan, Victoria, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -36.424135, 146.263274
Site Information
- Location: Directly off the southbound lanes of the Hume Highway, at the Glenrowan exit.
- Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, cars, caravans, and big rigs.
- Road Access: Sealed (bitumen).
- Site Surface: Bitumen and some grassed areas.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, overnight stays are permitted.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours recommended.
- Facilities: Basic, no power or showers.
- Potable Water: No, bring your own drinking water.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Excellent for all major carriers.
- TV Reception: Strong digital TV signal.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes.
- Open Fires: Strictly not permitted.
- Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for fellow travellers.
- Number of Sites Available: Unmarked, large area. Approximately 30+ spaces.
- Essentials to Bring: Drinking water, food supplies.
Local Amenities & Services
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
- Fishing: Ovens River in Wangaratta (approx. 15 km) or Lake Mokoan (approx. 15 km).
- Short Walks: Direct walking access to the Glenrowan Heritage Siege Precinct.
- Local Pubs:
- Glenrowan Hotel (approx. 500m walk)
- The Vine Hotel, Wangaratta (approx. 15 km)
- Pinsent Hotel, Wangaratta (approx. 16 km)
- Places to Eat:
- Billy Tea Rooms (Ned Kelly’s Pizza), Glenrowan (approx. 500m walk)
- Glenrowan Bakery & Cafe (approx. 500m walk)
- Local Attractions:
- Ned Kelly Memorial Museum & Animatronic Theatre (approx. 500m walk)
- Kate’s Cottage (souvenirs) and Kelly Gang Siege Site (approx. 500m walk)
- Wineries of the Glenrowan wine region (Morrisons, Baileys) (short drive).
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Glenrowan Tourist & Caravan Park (approx. 1 km)
- Big4 Wangaratta North Cedars Holiday Park (approx. 13 km)
- Next Free Camps:
- Mokoan Rest Area (Southbound) (approx. 7 km south)
- Wangaratta Rest Area (Southbound) (approx. 10 km north)
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Wangaratta Showgrounds (fee may apply) (approx. 17 km)
- Benalla Visitor Information Centre (approx. 25 km)
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- BP Service Station at Glenrowan exit (approx. 500m)
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Glenrowan Public Toilets in town (check tap signage) (approx. 600m)
- Nearest Public Toilets:
- Onsite
- Lions Park, Gladstone St, Glenrowan (approx. 600m)
Seasonal Weather Forecast: Glenrowan / North East Victoria Area
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and generally dry. Temperatures typically range from 15°C to 33°C, with days often exceeding 38°C.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild, sunny days with cool evenings. Temperatures range from 8°C to 25°C. A great time to visit.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool to cold with morning frosts. Daytime temperatures average 4°C to 14°C. Expect regular rainfall.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and becomes progressively warmer. Temperatures range from 7°C to 23°C, with a mix of sunshine and showers.
