- Camping with Campfires allowed
The best camping near Bowen with campfires
98% (1.1K) • 21 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Bowen
Menilden Farm
1. Menilden Farm
96%
(206)
6.3km from Bowen · 83 sites · Tents, RVs
Our property is 38 acres in size and is primarily used as an equestrian facility where coaching, clinics and training in dressage are conducted as well as providing agistment.
The camping area is 100 metres or so from the nearest road and next to a dam and provides some of the most gorgeous sunsets around.
Currently you will need to be self sufficient as we don’t have any toilet or shower facilities and we are still working on our shade with the trees having only just been planted.
We are are only 2km from the Bruce hi-way and a comfortable 10 minute drive to the beautiful Bowen beaches, shops, pubs, restaurants making this a great spot to base yourself for your next Bowen getaway or if you are just passing through.
Pets
from
AU$22
/ night
Jenkins Farm
2. Jenkins Farm
97%
(56)
7.7km from Bowen · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Situated only 10 minutes drive from the beautiful town of Bowen with its amazing beaches, our 10 acre hobby farm with sheep, cattle and pigs has 1 acre set aside for fully contained travellers. Our block is flat with easy access, amazing sunsets and situated in a quiet, peaceful location off the Collinsville rd. The Don River is very close by with easy access to a great viewing area for the upcoming Don River dash. Our open block is ideal for self contained caravans and camper vans with individual or group bookings welcome. Kayaks available to hire upon request. Fireplaces also supplied with firewood available. We look forward to seeing you soon.
from
AU$22
/ night
Ben Lomond Station
3. Ben Lomond Station
99%
(782)
26km from Bowen · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Ben 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.
We are a nature based camping area. 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 any fallen timber yourself. There is a ban on cutting down any standing timber even it is dead.
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.
Pets
from
AU$22
/ night
Blackiron
4. Blackiron
98%
(519)
66km from Bowen · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Situated 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$31
/ night
Green Meadows Retreat
5. Green Meadows Retreat
4.5km from Bowen · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Our property, aptly named "Green Meadows Retreat," is a serene and picturesque retreat nestled adjacent to the banks of the tranquil Don River. Spanning 20 acres of lush greenery, our land offers a unique blend of natural beauty and peaceful seclusion.
The property is adjacent to a winding river that provides a calming backdrop for a variety of activities, including trail biking, buggying and peaceful nature walks. Sprawling farmland is also part of the landscape, offering a delightful opportunity for guests to purchase fresh, seasonal produce.
On-site, guests can enjoy hiking through grassy trails, birdwatching, and stargazing. Nearby, the area offers opportunities for horseback riding, four wheel driving, and exploring local bush trails and farms. Whether seeking relaxation or outdoor adventure, Green Meadows Retreat offers something for every nature enthusiast.
Pets
from
AU$37
/ night
Crystal Brook Camping
6. Crystal Brook Camping
92%
(6)
42km from Bowen · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
This campsite is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. It's a peaceful spot with basic amenities, perfect for a weekend getaway. Located just 1km from Proserpine Dam, the campsite offers easy access to serene water views and activities.
For those willing to explore further, Girraween National Park is about an hour's drive from Crystal Brook. This national park is renowned for its spectacular granite landscapes, wildflowers, and walking trails. The Bald Rock Creek camping area within the park is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.
The campsite is pet-friendly and caters to self-sufficient campers only, as there are no toilets or showers available. Enjoy a truly off-the-grid experience in this beautiful natural setting.
Pets
Potable water
from
AU$37
/ night
Normanby Rd Nature Bush Camp
7. Normanby Rd Nature Bush Camp
100%
(8)
47km from Bowen · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Normanby Rd Nature Bush Camp is a 22 acre property on the Bogie River, located 1.3 km off Peter Delemonthe Road, a short 35 minute drive from Bowen and close to Collinsville in the Whitsunday Region of North Queensland.
- Tents, Caravans, Camper Trailers, RV’s all welcome, 2wd accessible
- 1 Caravan and 2 vehicles allowed with 5 guests maximum per site
- Camp Kitchen
- Campfires allowed
- Portable water available
- Bush showers with gas hot water
- Self sufficient with porta-potty is preferred
- Pet Friendly - dogs to be on a leash or in an enclosure at all times
- PM your host Paul for more information
Camp in nature and enjoy the sights and sounds of the local wildlife.
Pets
Showers
Potable water
from
AU$25
/ night
Lazy Dayz
8. Lazy Dayz
100%
(2)
52km from Bowen · 5 sites
Tucked away on private acreage, this peaceful bush campsite is the perfect place to escape the rush of everyday life. Tall trees and natural bushland create a calm, beautiful setting.
At night, sit by the campfire and gaze at the stars; during the day, enjoy the sounds of birds and the wind through the trees. It’s ideal for anyone seeking quiet time in nature, while still being just 15 minutes from Airlie Beach Main Street.
Rules
1. Road Safety – Richardson and Dorothy Road is an unsealed (dirt) road regularly used by our neighbours for walking pets, riding bikes, and more. Please drive slowly and with care, being mindful of pedestrians, animals, and other vehicles.
2. Noise Consideration – Out of respect for our close neighbours, please keep noise to a minimum—especially in the evenings. Strictly no loud noise after 9:00 PM.
3. Campfire Safety – Fires are only permitted in the supplied fire pit, or in your own fire pit, in accordance with local fire ban rules and regulations. Please ask us if you are unsure.
4. Water Use – Our property relies solely on tank water, which is a limited resource. Please use water thoughtfully—for drinking and washing up only. Water is not to be used for filling caravans or washing vehicles.
5. Rubbish & Recycling – Please use the bins provided for rubbish and recycling while visiting. Do not leave any rubbish outside in plastic bags or around your campsite, as the local wildlife loves a free meal!
6. Property Access – This is a shared property. We kindly ask that guests respect our privacy and stay within the designated campsite and bush shed areas. Please do not enter private zones beyond these spaces.
from
AU$37
/ night
Whitsunday Pet Friendly Retreat
9. Whitsunday Pet Friendly Retreat
57km from Bowen · 2 sites
Escape to Sunrise Hill Whitsunday Rural retreat, nestled on a 5 acre property in the Whitsundays, where pets are not just allowed, they're welcomed. Our unique 'Shouse' (Shed House) sits on 5 acres of stunning landscaped gardens and rainforest, home to diverse wildlife and a serene Billabong. Ideal for those seeking tranquility, explore our lush surroundings or relax in the rural charm.
With ample boat storage and close to launching sites : Proserpine River ramp - 8 mins, Cannonvale VMR ramp -15 mins, Airlie Marina ramp - 18 mins and Peter Faust dam 20 mins drive.
*Property is unsuitable for children due to the unfenced Billabong.
*Driveway entrance is an incline - with overhanging trees, please discuss with host if any concerns.
Whitsunday Rural retreat is your secluded getaway in the Whitsunday region (close to Cannonvale/ Airlie Beach and Proserpine) - offering the perfect blend of privacy and natural beauty. Situated just 20 meters behind our main residence, guests enjoy their own separate entrance and outdoor sitting area with views of the surrounding trees and a tranquil Billabong. Our unique 'Shouse' features air-conditioned open-plan living, fully self-contained amenities, and expansive glass sliding doors that invite the lush outdoors in. Undercover parking is available, a comfortable Queen bed, a convenient study area and full laundry facilities, ensuring a stay that combines rustic charm with modern comforts. A highlight is your personal fire-pit, perfect for evening relaxation or a BBQ under the stars, alongside a secure pet-friendly enclosure for your furry friends.
Guests should be aware that our rural setting means that mobile reception and WiFi can occasionally be unreliable. You may hear/sight farming machinery or local traffic in the far-off distance, additionally, you may encounter free-range chickens, lizards, snakes, frogs, spiders, toads, ants, and other insects. An added bonus is our neighbourhood rooster, who may serenade the locals with his morning crow, all adding to the charm of your rural stay.
Please note that we request not leaving pets unattended at the accomodation. We can recommend local pet sitters and pet-friendly dining spots to make your stay as enjoyable as possible.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$212
/ night
The Pocket
10. The Pocket
100%
(2)
59km from Bowen · 1 site · Tent, RV
The Pocket – Airlie Beach, Queensland
Escape to a peaceful hideaway just minutes from the heart of Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday ferry terminal. This quiet, non-powered campsite offers a flat area for tents or small campers, perfect for travelers seeking simplicity and nature close to town.
Enjoy the best of both worlds—close to beaches, restaurants, and shops, yet tucked away in a calm, private spot. Campfires and pets are welcome, making it an ideal stop for self-contained campers wanting a relaxed, off-grid experience in the Whitsundays.
Pets
from
AU$61
/ night
98% (1.1K) • 21 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Bowen
Menilden Farm
1. Menilden Farm
96%
(206)
6.3km from Bowen · 83 sites · Tents, RVs
Our property is 38 acres in size and is primarily used as an equestrian facility where coaching, clinics and training in dressage are conducted as well as providing agistment.
The camping area is 100 metres or so from the nearest road and next to a dam and provides some of the most gorgeous sunsets around.
Currently you will need to be self sufficient as we don’t have any toilet or shower facilities and we are still working on our shade with the trees having only just been planted.
We are are only 2km from the Bruce hi-way and a comfortable 10 minute drive to the beautiful Bowen beaches, shops, pubs, restaurants making this a great spot to base yourself for your next Bowen getaway or if you are just passing through.
Pets
from
AU$22
/ night
Jenkins Farm
2. Jenkins Farm
97%
(56)
7.7km from Bowen · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Situated only 10 minutes drive from the beautiful town of Bowen with its amazing beaches, our 10 acre hobby farm with sheep, cattle and pigs has 1 acre set aside for fully contained travellers. Our block is flat with easy access, amazing sunsets and situated in a quiet, peaceful location off the Collinsville rd. The Don River is very close by with easy access to a great viewing area for the upcoming Don River dash. Our open block is ideal for self contained caravans and camper vans with individual or group bookings welcome. Kayaks available to hire upon request. Fireplaces also supplied with firewood available. We look forward to seeing you soon.
from
AU$22
/ night
Ben Lomond Station
3. Ben Lomond Station
99%
(782)
26km from Bowen · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Ben 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.
We are a nature based camping area. 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 any fallen timber yourself. There is a ban on cutting down any standing timber even it is dead.
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.
Pets
from
AU$22
/ night
Blackiron
4. Blackiron
98%
(519)
66km from Bowen · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Situated 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$31
/ night
Green Meadows Retreat
5. Green Meadows Retreat
4.5km from Bowen · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Our property, aptly named "Green Meadows Retreat," is a serene and picturesque retreat nestled adjacent to the banks of the tranquil Don River. Spanning 20 acres of lush greenery, our land offers a unique blend of natural beauty and peaceful seclusion.
The property is adjacent to a winding river that provides a calming backdrop for a variety of activities, including trail biking, buggying and peaceful nature walks. Sprawling farmland is also part of the landscape, offering a delightful opportunity for guests to purchase fresh, seasonal produce.
On-site, guests can enjoy hiking through grassy trails, birdwatching, and stargazing. Nearby, the area offers opportunities for horseback riding, four wheel driving, and exploring local bush trails and farms. Whether seeking relaxation or outdoor adventure, Green Meadows Retreat offers something for every nature enthusiast.
Pets
from
AU$37
/ night
Crystal Brook Camping
6. Crystal Brook Camping
92%
(6)
42km from Bowen · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
This campsite is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. It's a peaceful spot with basic amenities, perfect for a weekend getaway. Located just 1km from Proserpine Dam, the campsite offers easy access to serene water views and activities.
For those willing to explore further, Girraween National Park is about an hour's drive from Crystal Brook. This national park is renowned for its spectacular granite landscapes, wildflowers, and walking trails. The Bald Rock Creek camping area within the park is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.
The campsite is pet-friendly and caters to self-sufficient campers only, as there are no toilets or showers available. Enjoy a truly off-the-grid experience in this beautiful natural setting.
Pets
Potable water
from
AU$37
/ night
Normanby Rd Nature Bush Camp
7. Normanby Rd Nature Bush Camp
100%
(8)
47km from Bowen · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Normanby Rd Nature Bush Camp is a 22 acre property on the Bogie River, located 1.3 km off Peter Delemonthe Road, a short 35 minute drive from Bowen and close to Collinsville in the Whitsunday Region of North Queensland.
- Tents, Caravans, Camper Trailers, RV’s all welcome, 2wd accessible
- 1 Caravan and 2 vehicles allowed with 5 guests maximum per site
- Camp Kitchen
- Campfires allowed
- Portable water available
- Bush showers with gas hot water
- Self sufficient with porta-potty is preferred
- Pet Friendly - dogs to be on a leash or in an enclosure at all times
- PM your host Paul for more information
Camp in nature and enjoy the sights and sounds of the local wildlife.
Pets
Showers
Potable water
from
AU$25
/ night
Lazy Dayz
8. Lazy Dayz
100%
(2)
52km from Bowen · 5 sites
Tucked away on private acreage, this peaceful bush campsite is the perfect place to escape the rush of everyday life. Tall trees and natural bushland create a calm, beautiful setting.
At night, sit by the campfire and gaze at the stars; during the day, enjoy the sounds of birds and the wind through the trees. It’s ideal for anyone seeking quiet time in nature, while still being just 15 minutes from Airlie Beach Main Street.
Rules
1. Road Safety – Richardson and Dorothy Road is an unsealed (dirt) road regularly used by our neighbours for walking pets, riding bikes, and more. Please drive slowly and with care, being mindful of pedestrians, animals, and other vehicles.
2. Noise Consideration – Out of respect for our close neighbours, please keep noise to a minimum—especially in the evenings. Strictly no loud noise after 9:00 PM.
3. Campfire Safety – Fires are only permitted in the supplied fire pit, or in your own fire pit, in accordance with local fire ban rules and regulations. Please ask us if you are unsure.
4. Water Use – Our property relies solely on tank water, which is a limited resource. Please use water thoughtfully—for drinking and washing up only. Water is not to be used for filling caravans or washing vehicles.
5. Rubbish & Recycling – Please use the bins provided for rubbish and recycling while visiting. Do not leave any rubbish outside in plastic bags or around your campsite, as the local wildlife loves a free meal!
6. Property Access – This is a shared property. We kindly ask that guests respect our privacy and stay within the designated campsite and bush shed areas. Please do not enter private zones beyond these spaces.
from
AU$37
/ night
Whitsunday Pet Friendly Retreat
9. Whitsunday Pet Friendly Retreat
57km from Bowen · 2 sites
Escape to Sunrise Hill Whitsunday Rural retreat, nestled on a 5 acre property in the Whitsundays, where pets are not just allowed, they're welcomed. Our unique 'Shouse' (Shed House) sits on 5 acres of stunning landscaped gardens and rainforest, home to diverse wildlife and a serene Billabong. Ideal for those seeking tranquility, explore our lush surroundings or relax in the rural charm.
With ample boat storage and close to launching sites : Proserpine River ramp - 8 mins, Cannonvale VMR ramp -15 mins, Airlie Marina ramp - 18 mins and Peter Faust dam 20 mins drive.
*Property is unsuitable for children due to the unfenced Billabong.
*Driveway entrance is an incline - with overhanging trees, please discuss with host if any concerns.
Whitsunday Rural retreat is your secluded getaway in the Whitsunday region (close to Cannonvale/ Airlie Beach and Proserpine) - offering the perfect blend of privacy and natural beauty. Situated just 20 meters behind our main residence, guests enjoy their own separate entrance and outdoor sitting area with views of the surrounding trees and a tranquil Billabong. Our unique 'Shouse' features air-conditioned open-plan living, fully self-contained amenities, and expansive glass sliding doors that invite the lush outdoors in. Undercover parking is available, a comfortable Queen bed, a convenient study area and full laundry facilities, ensuring a stay that combines rustic charm with modern comforts. A highlight is your personal fire-pit, perfect for evening relaxation or a BBQ under the stars, alongside a secure pet-friendly enclosure for your furry friends.
Guests should be aware that our rural setting means that mobile reception and WiFi can occasionally be unreliable. You may hear/sight farming machinery or local traffic in the far-off distance, additionally, you may encounter free-range chickens, lizards, snakes, frogs, spiders, toads, ants, and other insects. An added bonus is our neighbourhood rooster, who may serenade the locals with his morning crow, all adding to the charm of your rural stay.
Please note that we request not leaving pets unattended at the accomodation. We can recommend local pet sitters and pet-friendly dining spots to make your stay as enjoyable as possible.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
AU$212
/ night
The Pocket
10. The Pocket
100%
(2)
59km from Bowen · 1 site · Tent, RV
The Pocket – Airlie Beach, Queensland
Escape to a peaceful hideaway just minutes from the heart of Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday ferry terminal. This quiet, non-powered campsite offers a flat area for tents or small campers, perfect for travelers seeking simplicity and nature close to town.
Enjoy the best of both worlds—close to beaches, restaurants, and shops, yet tucked away in a calm, private spot. Campfires and pets are welcome, making it an ideal stop for self-contained campers wanting a relaxed, off-grid experience in the Whitsundays.
Pets
from
AU$61
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
R
Russell
5 days ago
Tent
Enjoyed our night camping in a ground tent.
Beautifully maintained paddock, short walk to the river and peaceful.
Just a little tip, bring your own shade
Would stay there again
See more
J
Jarrad
6 days ago
J
Jolene
January 2026
5 m pop-up camper
Host are super hospitable ! Made you very welcome 😊 We even stayed an extra night at there glamping spot !
See moreJ
Jess
January 2026
7 m travel trailer
With pets
Great spot! Very well maintained grounds & a beautiful sandy creek for swimming & fishing.
See moreP
Patrick
January 2026
7 m Class A
Great place to camp. Creek had enough water to enjoy for a swim. Free Australia day entertainment.
See more
A
Aimee
January 2026
5 m travel trailer
Thanks for having us again Ben & Cassie, think thats 4 now? Maybe? Lol! As always we had a fantastic time!
See moreR
Rose
January 2026
8 m travel trailer
With kids
What a beautiful spot! This is our second time staying here and it is perfect for kids. We relaxed and swam in the creek, and there was plenty of space for the kids to run around. Ben was welcoming, will definitely be back.
See more
D
Danielle
January 2026
6 m travel trailer
With pets
Great spot overlooking the dam. Perfect for us as a one night stay passing through. Very clean and tidy - fire pits provided. Would definitely stay again.
See moreR
Rachael
January 2026
8 m travel trailer
Loved the location and tranquility. It was a great time to unwind and relax. The recent storms filled the river which we could hear from our site. We will be back.
See moreM
Marco
January 2026
9 m pop-up camper
With kids
Absolutely beautiful grounds. We had a brilliant view of the river & had a little dip in the morning. Would 100% return here. Thank you for an enjoyable stay.
See more
W
Wouter
January 2026
6 m Class B
Clean and very scenic place. They cleaned the whole place from fallen branches and such because of the heavy weather the days before, specicifically for our stay. Very friendly people as well. Would def recommend!
See more
Teresa
January 2026
6 m travel trailer
With pets
Nice and quiet place for NYE. Grass had been nicely mowed and bonus was the creek had water for the dogs to splash around in. Would return.
See moreD
Darryn
December 2025
5 nights at Blackiron
Besides the weather which was out of everyone's control. It's a very relaxed laid back site..Ben is very approachability and has a very laid back attitude..definitely will be camping there in the future weather permitting.
See moreJ
John
December 2025
2 nights at Blackiron
Nice and quiet spot secluded from the rest of the camp area. We only really had to supply ourselves with food and drinks as everything else such as firewood and cooking supplies was already supplied. Definitely will be back again.
See more
L
Lily
December 2025
5 m car
Such a great spot, we camped here twice on our roadtrip and it was one of the best places we stayed. Lovely hosts 👍
Thanks Matt and Pam
See more
f
fiona
December 2025
10 m travel trailer
Group trip
Colleen was a great host - camp spot was exactly as described - even had a herd of cattle wakeup alarm
See moreB
Bella
December 2025
8 m pop-up camper
Great spot, nice and quiet, convenient to town. Lovely to see trees have been planted around the camping area. Look forward to coming back. 🙂
See more
Briana
December 2025
Tent
With pets
Awesome stay here with my 2 dogs. Ben was super friendly and accommodating. Will definitely be back!
See more
B
Bree
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Blackiron
This was such a cute set up and great idea! We had a large car and a jet ski so was the perfect stay with needing a large car park (as it is on a big block). Enjoyed the bath and even got to watch pigs run past the river as we were in it. A little warm with no aircon but was totally manageable and loved listening to the outside noises just like camping!
See moreK
Kate
December 2025
Tent
This place is beautiful and peaceful. Had a beautiful breeze coming through which kept the heat bearable. We even got a visit from the beautiful Bug, she was so sweet, and woke up to the cutest surprise of Bug asleep next to our campsite the next morning, and she just hung out with us. Definitely worth a stay here.
See more
The best camping near Bowen with campfires guide
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.