Last Updated on 9 February 2026 by Rob
Located on the banks of the Murchison River along the North West Coastal Highway, the Galena Bridge Rest Area is a very popular 24-hour free camp. It provides a strategic place to spend a night on the way north or on the return journey. Perth is an easy drive from this campground.
Pets are permitted at this site.
Tents are permitted.
Fires are permitted outside of the fire ban periods. Fires are not permitted from mid-September to mid-April.
Galena Bridge Rest Area Quick Facts
| Campground Name | Galena Bridge Rest Area |
|---|---|
| Nearest Town | Kalbarri |
| GPS | 27°49'39.11"S 114°41'26.06"E |
| Access Road | Sealed |
| Number of sites | 40+ |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Water | No |
| Dump point | Yes |
| Power | No |
| Pets | Yes |
| Tents | Yes |
| Fires permitted | Yes outside restricted period |
| Telstra coverage | Weak |
| Optus coverage | No |
| Cost | Free |
| Booking | N/A |
Campground Layout and Features
The campground has perhaps enough space for 40 sites. It is split across two areas: one to the north of the river and one to the south. The southern area is the larger of the two. Each area has the same facilities.
The ground undulates a bit on places, and it is generally rocky. Select your camping spot carefully to get a level.
The sites closer to the river are the more popular. You will need to arrive early to secure one of these sites.
Each area has drop toilets, rubbish bins, and a dump point.
The two areas are linked by what we think is the original bridge crossing the river.
The areas are not far from the road, so you may hear the traffic. If it bothers you, find a spot at the far end of the area.
Galena Bridge Rest Area Location
The camping area can be accessed from both sides of the river. The southern entry is 12.8km from the Kalbarri turnoff. The northern entry is 14.2km from the same turnoff.
The map below shows the campground’s location. You can zoom out for a more general location.
What to Watch Out For at Galena Bridge Rest Area
This site is very popular, so try to arrive early
If you have pets, be careful as the grass can be full of seeds.
Final Words
We have stayed at this site numerous times. It is a standard stop for us when travelling this road. We have never had any issues.
It is possible to explore the Kalbarri gorges from this campground.
The site is named after a mineral that was mined near this campground. Galena is a lead sulphide mineral that was mined for its lead content.
Closeby Campgrounds
If you are heading towards Exmouth, there is a nearby free camp at Lyndon River West Rest Area. Alternatively, Worroora Station is a paid option near the coast.