The Pink Lake Rest Area on the Western Highway is an iconic stop for travellers, offering more than just a place to rest—it provides a stunning visual spectacle. Located near Dimboola, this spot is one of the premier locations to witness Loch Iel, the famous Pink Lake of Victoria. Its vibrant, rosy waters, a result of salt-loving algae, create a surreal landscape that draws in photographers and tourists alike. This easily accessible, free rest area allows anyone travelling the long stretch between Adelaide and Melbourne to pull over and experience one of the region’s most remarkable natural attractions. The intensity of the pink colour varies with the seasons and sunlight, ensuring a unique view with every visit, making it a highlight of any road trip through the Wimmera region.
Designed to accommodate all kinds of travellers, the Pink Lake Rest Area features a large, sealed parking area suitable for everything from cars to big rigs and large caravans, ensuring a clean and stable surface for an overnight stay. The facilities, while basic, are practical for a highway stop, including a toilet block, rubbish bins, and some picnic tables. While there’s no drinking water or power, the million-dollar view of the lake is the main amenity. A path leads from the parking area towards the lake’s edge, inviting visitors to get a closer look at the salt formations and the striking water colour. Given its position right on the highway, some traffic noise is present, but it’s a minor trade-off for the convenience and the magnificent scenery. For a free, memorable, and incredibly photogenic stopover, the Pink Lake Rest Area is an essential part of the Western Highway journey.
Pink Lake Rest Area – VIC Location Map
Pink Lake Rest Area
- Address: 4669 Western Hwy, Dimboola VIC 3414, Australia
- GPS Coordinates: -36.403037, 141.960440
Rest Area Details
- Location: Directly on the Western Highway, providing excellent views and access to the Pink Lake (Loch Iel).
- Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, including cars, caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs.
- Road Access: Sealed highway access.
- Site Surface: Bitumen / Asphalt.
- Camping Permitted: Yes, overnight stays are permitted and popular.
- Maximum Overnight Stays: Generally accepted as 24 hours.
- Facilities: Public toilets, picnic tables.
- Potable Water: Not available.
- Mobile Phone Coverage: Strong Telstra coverage is typical.
- TV Reception: Generally good.
- Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
- Rubbish Bins: Yes.
- Open Fires: Strictly prohibited.
- Generator Use: Permitted during daytime hours; be courteous to fellow travellers.
- Number of Sites Available: Large open area for 25+ vehicles.
- Essentials to Bring: Your own drinking water and food.
- Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome but must be on a leash.
- Fishing: Not applicable due to high salt content.
- Short Walks: A walk down to the Pink Lake’s edge is a must-do.
Local Amenities & Attractions
- Local Pubs:
- Victoria Hotel, Dimboola: Approx. 14 km
- Commercial Hotel, Nhill: Approx. 23 km
- Little Desert Hotel, Kiata: Approx. 13 km
- Places to Eat:
- Dimboola Store & Cafe: Approx. 14 km
- Nhill Bakery: Approx. 23 km
- Local Attractions:
- Pink Lake (Loch Iel): Onsite
- Little Desert National Park: Approx. 18 km
- Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre: Approx. 23 km
- Nearest Caravan Parks:
- Riverside Holiday Park, Dimboola: Approx. 14 km
- Nhill Caravan Park: Approx. 23 km
- Next Free Camps:
- Dow Well Rest Area (4WD recommended): Approx. 38 km
- Serviceton Rest Area (VIC/SA Border): Approx. 88 km
- Nearest Dump Points:
- Dimboola Showgrounds: Approx. 14 km
- Nhill Caravan Park (a fee may apply): Approx. 23 km
- Nearest Petrol Station:
- Dimboola: Approx. 14 km
- Nhill: Approx. 23 km
- Drinking Water Resupply:
- Available at public facilities in Dimboola or Nhill.
- Public Toilets (offsite):
- Located in the towns of Dimboola and Nhill.
Seasonal Weather Forecast
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and very dry, with temperatures often over 35°C. The lake’s colour is often at its most vivid.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Pleasant conditions with warm days and cool nights, making it ideal for travel. Averages are between 10°C and 26°C.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool to cold days and frosty nights. The lake may have higher water levels. Temperatures range from 5°C to 16°C.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Mild and sunny. A great time to see wildflowers in the region. Temperatures average 9°C to 24°C.
