Nestled directly alongside the bustling Princes Freeway (M1) in Victoria’s scenic Gippsland region, the Longwarry North Rest Area offers a welcome sanctuary for weary travellers. This well-maintained, free-of-charge facility is more than just a place to stretch your legs; it’s a designated power nap and short-stay rest area, providing a safe and convenient location to break up a long journey. Its strategic position makes it an indispensable stop for those travelling between Melbourne and the eastern parts of Victoria, including popular destinations like the Latrobe Valley, the Gippsland Lakes, and Wilson’s Promontory.
The site is thoughtfully designed to accommodate a wide range of vehicles. Whether you’re driving a standard car, towing a caravan, or commanding a large motorhome or big rig, you’ll find ample space within its sealed asphalt grounds. The access is straightforward and clearly signposted from the freeway, ensuring a stress-free entry and exit. Upon arrival, travellers are greeted by a clean and functional environment, highlighted by the availability of onsite public toilets – an essential amenity for any road trip. The presence of rubbish bins encourages visitors to keep the area tidy, contributing to a pleasant experience for everyone.
While the facilities are basic, they cover the critical needs for a comfortable short stay. It’s an ideal spot for a quick lunch break at one of the picnic tables or for a more extended overnight rest to recharge before continuing your adventure. The permission for overnight stays makes it a valuable pin on the map for budget-conscious campers and self-contained travellers. While here, you can take a short walk to invigorate yourself or simply relax and observe the steady rhythm of the highway. Although it’s a practical and functional site, its proximity to several towns means that supplies, fuel, and a good pub meal are never too far away. The Longwarry North Rest Area perfectly embodies the spirit of Australian road travel: simple, practical, and always there when you need it.
Longwarry North Rest Area – VIC Location Map
Longwarry North Rest Area
- Address: Princes Freeway, Longwarry North VIC 3816, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -38.09063093577777, 145.8068490218984
Campsite Information & Features
- Location: Directly on the Princes Freeway (M1), Longwarry North, Victoria.
- Site suitable for: Caravans, motorhomes, campervans, big rigs, and cars.
- Road access: Sealed road, direct access from the highway.
- Site surface: Asphalt / Tarmac.
- Camping permitted: Yes, overnight stays are permitted.
- Maximum overnight stays: Typically 24 hours, please obey local signage.
- Facilities: Picnic tables.
- Potable water: Not available. Bring your own supply.
- Mobile phone coverage: Good coverage for major carriers (Telstra, Optus, Vodafone).
- TV reception: Good digital TV reception is generally available.
- Onsite public toilets: Yes, available.
- Rubbish bins: Yes, available.
- Open fires: Not permitted.
- Generator use: Permitted, please be considerate of other travellers.
- Number of sites available: Unmarked, approximately 15-20 various-sized spaces.
- Essentials to bring: Drinking water, food, and levelling blocks may be useful.
- Pet friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
- Fishing: Not available at this location.
- Short walks: Informal walking around the rest area perimeter is possible.
- Local pubs:
Longwarry Hotel (~8 km),
The Drouin Family Hotel (~15 km),
The Royal Hotel Drouin (~15 km).
- Places to eat:
Various cafes and takeaway shops in Longwarry (~8 km), Drouin (~15 km), and Warragul (~24 km).
- Local attractions:
Gumbuya World Theme Park (~25 km),
Mount Cannibal Flora and Fauna Reserve (~20 km),
Warragul’s galleries and markets (~24 km).
- Nearest caravan parks:
Drouin Caravan Park (~15 km),
Warragul Gardens Holiday Park (~25 km).
- Next free camps:
Apex Park, Moe (~45 km East),
Yarragon Lions Club Park (~34 km East).
- Nearest dump points:
Drouin Caravan Park (check for public access/fee, ~15 km),
Warragul Showgrounds (~24 km).
- Nearest petrol station: Longwarry (~8 km), Drouin (~15 km).
- Drinking water resupply: Public taps available in Drouin (~15 km) and Warragul (~24 km).
- Public toilets: Onsite, with further facilities in Longwarry (~8 km).
- Seasonal weather forecast:
Summer (Dec-Feb) is generally warm to hot. Autumn (Mar-May) is mild. Winter (Jun-Aug) is cool and often wet. Spring (Sep-Nov) is mild with variable conditions.
