Camping near Bowen, Queensland
Discover and book the best campgrounds, cabins, caravan parks, and more.
- Bowen
Camping near Bowen
Choose between eight beaches and dozens of island getaways at this coastal paradise.
Top-rated stays
99%
(341)
Ben Lomond Station
6 sites · RVs, Tents1800 acres · QLDBen Lomond Station is an 1800 acre working cattle station 25 minutes south of Bowen and 35 minutes north of Airlie Beach on the Whitsundays. We border onto Eden Lassie Creek which has tidal ocean access for saltwater fishing and there is an abundance of estuary fishing and crab spots available.
Cleared shady camping spots are available for fully self contained campers as there are currently no facilities available so you must have own camping toilet and leave no trace.
Access to the camping area is for 4WD only with caravans off road and high clearance.
Firewood is available for a small fee or you can collect it yourself.
There is plenty of room to run for the kids and dogs though we do ask that your pet not annoy our cattle or other campers.
Ben Lomond station has an abundance of flora and fauna such as burdekin plum trees, mango trees, wallabies, kangaroos and bird and fish species.
from
AU$15
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
97%
(91)
Blackiron
17 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Andromache, QLDSituated on the bank of the Andromache River, setup camp at one of our cozy camp spots and enjoy the quiet of the bush.
We have sites available in our grassy paddock which are accessible by all vehicles.
Sand camping is available for 4x4's with tent/swag set ups during the dry seasons. No trailers or vans are permitted on the sand due to bogging.
Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of a campfire and visual displays of local wildlife, try your hand at fishing in the river or just enjoy a cool swim just a few meters from our grassy sites.
Guests are required to be fully self-sufficient with their own toilet/shower facilities and must take all waste and rubbish with them on departure.
Only a short distance from Airlie Beach and the islands for those interested in the local tourist attractions.
Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.
from
AU$20
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(3)
Whitsunday Heritage Cane Cutters Cottage
2 sites · Lodging6 acres · Woodwark, QLDGuests love staying in this self-contained restored 100 year old classic cottage. Located at the end of a quiet country lane, close to everything but a million miles away in peace, quiet and ambience with no neighbours, you'll feel like you're living in your own private rainforest retreat.
The Cottage is equipped with all the comforts of home like full kitchen plus baby Weber bbq on the verandah; bathroom with loads of towels & washing machine; air conditioning and verandah views over the tropical gardens and visiting wallabies and birdlife. The Cottage is about 5 minutes from Airlie Beach so has the convenience of accessing the islands, Great Barrier Reef and rainforest walks by day, plus the peace and quiet of evenings away from what is quite a party town at night with live music in many venues and a great choice of restaurant dining if that's what you're after.
Regret no pets.
from
AU$190
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
98%
(544)
Mushroom Valley Eco Camp
17 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Yalboroo, QLDEverybody Welcome! Just bring a great attitude and enjoy a peaceful stay :)
Located on the beautiful O'Connell River, this camp site is surrounded by gorgeous landscapes including a mountain range and the river. The property boasts many areas to go for walks, enjoy the wildlife and relax.
You can enjoy spacious camping choices either along the river or on other selected areas throughout the property (we will show you where).
We always ensure a limited number of campers so you get the space and tranquility you deserve on your camping trip. No side by side camping, always spacious and comfortable.
There is access to a large number of compostable
toilets, and composting and recycling facilities are available (we ask that you
please take all general rubbish with you).
Wildlife is in abundance throughout the property and includes grazing wallabies, ducks and birdlife which are
an everyday occurrence. The property is also the home of our Festival - Mushroom Valley, throughout the site you will find different pieces of artwork, decor and permanent structures that bring artistic life to the site.
We are a friendly and relaxed family who live on the site and we look forward to welcoming you to our little piece of paradise.
Well behaved pets are welcome, please discuss with us upon booking :)
from
AU$10
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(3720)
Hold It Flats
128 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Yalboroo, QLDHold it Flats is a 120 acre property that borders the beautiful O'Connell River that has water all year round. Take a walk around the property to check out some of the creatures that have been built out of scrap metal and bush bars that have been built all around the property.
There is nice shady, green grass and flat camping sites right beside the river with hot showers and flushing toilets. There is plenty of room and some great tracks for the kids and the big kids to ride their push bikes on. The swimming hole is about 2 meters deep and has big shady trees on the edge. There is also enough room for kids to bring their kayaks and have a paddle along the river.
All campsites can be provided with their own fire pit. You just pick your spot and we will bring a portable fire pit to you. Fire wood can be purchased at the property. All rubbish must be taken when you, there are no rubbish bins provided.
from
AU$18
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(4)
Mount View Lake Holiday Park.
30 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Mount Surround, QLDRelax in this peaceful, family friendly campground. Nestled in the foothills of stunning Mount Surround. Former home of the Palm Creek folk festival. Set up camp and enjoy the 90 acres of shady grounds with plenty of wildlife, including pretty face wallabies and abundant birdlife.
The dam is great for non-motorized water sports where you can swim or paddle about on your kayak, canoe or SUP. (Please be aware entry to the dam is a bit muddy and weedy but the water is beautiful and fresh further in)
Settle down of an evening by the campfire then sit back and enjoy the spectacular starry night sky.
Located conveniently 45 km South from Townsville and Magnetic Island ferry terminal, 45km north of Ayr, 8km north of Giru.
Children under 5yrs stay for free.
Pet friendly (on a lead under owners' control at all times).
Powered and unpowered sites available
Separate men and women's toilets and hot showers.
Camp kitchen with shared fridges, gas rings x2, large gas BBQ, toaster, kettle and picnic tables. BYO cooking gear, plates, cups, utensils.
Washing up sinks x2 -cold water only. Laundry tubs have hot water that can be used in kitchen sink .
Coin washing machines available. ($2 x2 BYO)
from
AU$25
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(47)
Oh Deere Farm Stay and Sugar Cane Farm
16 sites · RVs, TentsCalen, QLDA beautiful area to camp and learn more about Sugar Cane as we have travelled a lot ourselves with our large family in a caravan we want to offer other families an affordable place to stay. We are on a cane farm and have flat grassy area suitable for all types of vehicles, tents, camper trailers, caravans or just swags. The house site is a large area around the main homestead of the property with toilet and shower facilities right there, including washing machine and dryer at a small cost for your convenience, also a BBQ that can be used with table and chairs also, come and have a drink and a chat in the afternoons and if wether and wind permit and no fire bans in place a chat around the fire pot.We are just off the Bruce Highway 1 hr from Airlie Beach and 45 minutes from Mackay. Safe to pull up and leave your van while you go sight seeing in our beautiful area.
from
AU$27
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
99%
(123)
Beckford
8 sites · RVs, Tents150000 acres · Newlands, QLDWelcome to Beckford, where we have 30km of Broken River frontage and we operate a 150,000 acre cattle station. It's hilly open forest country with amazing night skies and private campsites on the river with sandy beach access.
4WD access required.
After rain and wet weather it is recommended not to come - access is not good. We may need to cancel your booking (you'll be fully refunded).
A number of our favourite sites require some proper 4WDing through very loose sand so you may need to deflate your tyres to deal with these conditions.
Previous guests have told us this adds to the adventure. We are usually around to help & have a compressor for use in the shed if required.
Caravans are not advised.
Dog friendly (see rules - we have livestock, must be well controlled at all times).
Campfires permitted in designated areas when restrictions aren't in place. Please check before lighting fires). Free firewood laying about to collect your own.
IMPORTANT: we don't have a "google" road address so it's hard to find us and there is no mobile reception. Refer to directions in My Trips once your booking is confirmed.
Welcome to Beckford, where we have 30km of Broken River frontage and we operate a 150,000 acre cattle station. It's hilly open forest country with amazing night skies and private campsites on the river with sandy beach access. You can camp anywhere along the river or we can direct you to one of our several favourite sites.
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(35)
Diamond Ridge Grazing
3 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Crediton, QLDWhen people visit Diamond Ridge Grazing they feel like they have stepped back in time. With limited phone reception you will be able to fully immerse yourself in nature and enjoy all the beauty our property has to offer.
The property offers large grassy camping areas and as we are over 800 metres above sea level you can enjoy a lovely cool mountainous climate. There is also a flush toilet available at the farm shed. It is the perfect place to relax and switch off from the world.
There is plenty of star gazing and bird watching opportunities or you may just enjoy watching the horses and cattle grazing. If you're lucky you may even spot a Platypus swimming! You are also welcome to enjoy walking around the property but please speak to your host before approaching any of the animals on the property.
You can enjoy all your favourite water sports only 20 minutes away at Eungella Dam. You can also find phone service about 2 kilometres from the property if required.
Campfires are permitted pending there are no restrictions in place and we can supply firewood for you.
Pets are welcome on leash and please advise the host in advance if your pet will be coming with you.
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Whitsunday Islands
36 sites · Tents59 acres · Hamilton Island, QLDWe offer a day charter through the islands including Hill Inlet lookout, Whitehaven beach and one snorkelling location. We offer a unique way to explore the breathtaking Whitsundays Islands in Australia. But it gets better!When the crowds have gone home, you get the beach to yourself for an overnight camping adventure. Setup your camp and sit back and relax on a tropical Island Beach.We have different packages available for you even if you don't have your own camping gear.Day Charter : Visit the amazing Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet. Enjoy one snorkelling location, a guided bush walk to Hill Inlet lookout and approximately two hours Whitehaven Beach South. Fast adventure vessel that will get you to Whitehaven in less than an hour. Charter duration 6 - 7 hours.Whats Included:All snorkelling equipment, One Snorkelling locations, Swim at Whitehaven Beach, Guided Bush walk to Hill Inlet, Lunch can be ordered for $25Licensed bar.Minimum age 7 years oldWe are an adventure vessel, this tour is not recommended for people with pre-existing neck or back injuries or are pregnant.You must be able to swim unaided to enter the water.
from
AU$499
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
100%
(106)
Forest Flying Camping
4 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Mackay, QLDIf you want to get away from the rat race for a while this is your ideal location. We take one booking at any one time. You have the site to yourselves. Your site is three acres of privacy and seclusion, rainforest and a beautiful fresh water creek. Close to Araluen Cascades and Wheel of fire falls at Finch Hatton Gorge.
There are no facilities here so you need to be fully self-contained. No wifi. No mobile coverage (great to get the kids off the screens). There is plenty of water, firewood and wildlife though. Sometimes you won't be able to access the site as creek floods in heavy rain - can be cut off.
Please note check in is between 2 pm and 5 pm unless arranged otherwise.
Access is NOT suited to caravans, not enough turning space. Better suited to a camper trailer, camper vans, small motorhomes - need to have own toilet.
Forest Flying rainforest activity is next door. ($90 per person - booking essential). Please see www.forestflying.com for details.
NOTE: check our directions once your booking is confirmed.
from
AU$30
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Wetland Walkabout
2 sites · RVs, Tents70 acres · Mackay, QLDThis hidden gem located in the heart of Mackay is very private and not visible from the road. As soon as you drive in the front gates, you start to feel your exclusively in nature surroundings. A short drive down the driveway and you will be shortly greeted by the local farm animals, continue on and around the dam to the beautiful shaded gardens and private camping area by the hut. Quick meet and greet with the caretaker on the history and about the areas on the property to enjoy.
We are located near shops and next door to a Golf Course. Chill out under the hut and admire the fish in the water at the kids educational pond or try your luck for a Barra down the back in the catch and release dams on the property. Walk around our private 1.4km walking track to capture Australia's amazing Wetland Wildlife and relaxing sounds with picnic tables throughout. There are many tropical butterflies, goannas, possums and wildlife in their natural habit to be seen. Birdwatching is also great here with many species including Broglas, Ducks, Kite, Doves and more.
Flushing toilet block on site. We are bore water so bring your own drinking water. Campers can use the hut basic kitchen with fridge/kettle/microwave. Picnic tables near hut area. Power available for light duties such as charging phones or laptops in hut. In the evenings, warm your feet by the campfire. You will need to BYO firewood or we can supply a bag for extra.
from
AU$100
/ night
* Before taxes and fees
Outdoor stays for every style
Find your new favourite spot.
Palm-fringed beaches, tropical islands, and coral reefs line the shores of Bowen, a beach town all about getting on the water. Swim and snorkel Horseshoe Bay, zip around Gray’s Bay on a jet ski, or enjoy a seaside barbecue at Queen’s Beach. Tear yourself away from the beach long enough to snap a selfie by Bowen’s giant mango and grab a mango sorbet (Bowen is famous for the fruit), then take in the views from Flagstaff Hill. Camping options include beachside holiday parks and tranquil farmstays, and there are often fewer crowds here than in neighboring Airlie Beach.
Where to Go
Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays
Just south of Bowen, Airlie Beach is the gateway to the Whitsundays islands. Catch the ferry to Hamilton Island or take an island-hopping cruise, jumping off to stroll along Whitehaven Beach, snorkel at the Heart Reef lagoon, or swim at Cedar Creek Falls. Whitsunday Islands National Park has 10 campsites to choose from, either by the beach or in the heart of the bush.
Mackay Region
Further south, the Mackay region has both white-sand beaches and rainforest-blanketed hinterlands. Hike, camp, and spot platypus in Eungella National Park, swim beneath natural waterfalls in Finch Hatton Gorge, or enjoy beachside camping far from the crowds in the Cape Hillsborough National Park.
Townsville Coast
North of Bowen, coves and sleepy beach towns dot one of the less-visited stretches of Queensland coast. Townsville is the region’s primary hub, where you’ll find beaches, palm-lined promenades, and a selection of seaside camping. Take a road trip to Wallaman Falls, cruise out to enjoy wildlife walks on Magnetic Island, or set sail for the Great Barrier Reef islands to snorkel or scuba dive.
When to Go
Bowen’s tropical climate means it’s warm enough to swim and enjoy water sports year-round, but each season has its pros and cons. Summers (December through February) can be hot, humid, and wet, with temperatures climbing upwards of 30°C, while the dryer, cooler months of autumn and winter are ideal for outdoor activities. May through November is whale-watching season along the coast, while October through May is “stinger season,” when protective clothing is recommended when swimming.
Know Before You Go
- Public transport, ferries, and boat cruises run from Bowen and nearby Airlie beach, but having your own transport is useful for exploring the coast.
- Bowen has a selection of shops where you can pick up camping gear and stock up on supplies.
- Fire bans are common in Queensland during summer and dry periods, so check local recommendations.
Safety at Hipcamp
Hipcamp acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.