The best campgrounds near Bowen, Queensland with wildlife watching

Planning a camping trip near Bowen, Queensland in Australia? If you're a wildlife enthusiast, we've got you covered with over 650 camping options that offer wildlife watching opportunities. With an average price per night of $23 and options as low as $15, you'll find the perfect campsite for your budget. Check out top-rated campsites like Hold It Flats (2379 reviews), Mushroom Valley Eco Camp (358 reviews), and Ben Lomond Station (256 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities such as showers, pet-friendly sites, and toilets, and engage in activities like fishing, visiting historic sites, and boating. It's time to embark on an incredible wildlife adventure!

96% (952)

Top-rated campgrounds

Planning a camping trip near Bowen, Queensland in Australia? If you're a wildlife enthusiast, we've got you covered with over 650 camping options that offer wildlife watching opportunities. With an average price per night of $23 and options as low as $15, you'll find the perfect campsite for your budget. Check out top-rated campsites like Hold It Flats (2379 reviews), Mushroom Valley Eco Camp (358 reviews), and Ben Lomond Station (256 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities such as showers, pet-friendly sites, and toilets, and engage in activities like fishing, visiting historic sites, and boating. It's time to embark on an incredible wildlife adventure!

96% (952)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Ben Lomond Station

99%

(774)

26km from Bowen · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Hideaway Bay, QLD

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.

2. Blackiron

98%

(499)

66km from Bowen · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Proserpine, QLD

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.

3. Brindabella

98%

(25)

59km from Bowen · 1 site · RV · Airlie Beach, QLD

We are situated on 4 acres only mins to Airlie Beach and a part of the beautiful Whitsunday s. 74 Islands around and great boating and fishing . Restaurants and taverns near by also taxis and courtesy vans available. Day trip s to local islands, Bredyls Animal farm and so so much more. Come visit paradise!!

from

AU$50

/ night

4. Green Meadows Retreat

4.5km from Bowen · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Bowen, QLD

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.

5. Crystal Brook Camping

92%

(6)

42km from Bowen · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Crystal Brook, QLD

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.

Stories from the community

Kingfisher showing how it sits high on the embankment of the creek

T

Tim

2 weeks ago

5 m car

With pets

1 night at Blackiron

Great spot on the creek, plenty of fresh sand around. Thanks for hosting

P

Patrick

2 weeks ago

6 m pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Blackiron

Well set out camping area. Plenty of grass due to recent rain. Quiet, good place to get away from the city life. Creek was flowing enough to sit in and cool down.

Surprise catch - released as they all were.

C

Clare

2 weeks ago

8 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Ben Lomond Station

We loved the quiet and really enjoyed the cattle (especially the tiny calves ) birdlife and fishing. Saw pheasant coucal for the first time and a pair of brolga. Lots of birdsong for any birdwatchers out there. 😊

P

Patrick

2 weeks ago

3 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Blackiron

Good spot to camp. Nice and quiet. Area nicely grassed and mowed,fairly level . Unfortunately no campfire. Total fire ban. Didn't miss it. Creek was running enough to go sit in. Had rain second night. Definately will be going into our favourite's list to return. Saw an echidna, wallabies, galahs, kookaburras. Plenty of area for kids to run around in. Just a word advice though: if you don't know how to drive on soft river sand, don't venture there.

K

Kathy

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Ben Lomond Station

Very peaceful. Camps are far enough away to allow privacy. Directions from Colleen were very clear.

A

Anthony

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Ben Lomond Station

I only stopped in for a night heading North and again heading South but could have easily spent week if time allowed. Rob and Colleen were super welcoming. The camp sites are kept in great condition and a peaceful place with stunning sunsets and rises.

Ben

October 2025

10 m pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Blackiron

Great host and an awesome location. Very well looked after. Would absolutely recommend that anyone stay a few nights and cruise around the property. Great swimming locations and lots of local animals. Close to the whitsundays locations as well. Everyone was so friendly.

Tanya

October 2025

7 m Class A

Weekend Trip to Blackiron

Great place - we were warmly welcomed - nice and flat area - lots of wildlife - little creek to dip in

Shane

October 2025

6 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Blackiron

Friend And I stayed for the weekend, very relaxing and even had a pleasant dip in the beautiful river. Great host, Ben, family and friends made us very welcome.

Liz

October 2025

7 m travel trailer

3 nights at Ben Lomond Station

We had an absolutely relaxing time at Ben Lomond station. We will definitely be back again. Loved seeing the cattle walking past every afternoon. Fishing & crabbing was good. Just wish we had a longer stay.

A

Anita

October 2025

11 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Ben Lomond Station

Easy to find - Colleen was very helpful. Clear and well signed camp area.

S

Sean

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ben Lomond Station

Great spot, quiet good spacing between campsites, creek running though. Recommend for a chilled experience

S

Shabz

October 2025

5 m car

With pets

1 night at Blackiron

Only regret with this site was not having stayed there longer! Easy check in, was met by a lovely couple helping out on the farm, plenty of space, water available and nice walk by the creek. 100% recommend :)

Craig

October 2025

11 m travel trailer

1 night at Blackiron

Blackiron Hipcamp is a hidden gem just off the Bruce Highway, easy for any 2WD to reach. It offers everything from luxury glamping to simple tent sites, with plenty of space for caravans—no reversing or unhitching needed! Set along a clear, winding creek, it’s great for fishing or just relaxing by the water listening to the birds and the gentle flow. We usually travel in our caravan but treated ourselves to the Kingfisher luxury glamping tent—what a delight! Private, peaceful and perfect for a romantic getaway. The wood-fired outdoor spa was amazing; we lay under the stars, glass in hand, just soaking in the moment. Hosts Ben and his father were wonderful—friendly, genuine people who couldn’t do enough to help. Their warmth really made the stay special. The main Blackiron campsite is large and ideal not just for campers but also for group gatherings, family get-togethers or work events. All in all, Blackiron Hipcamp and the Kingfisher tent exceeded expectations—peaceful, beautifully kept and full of heart. We can’t recommend it enough!

S

Sue

October 2025

9 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Blackiron

Being met on arrival by Ben. Ben doing the rounds late afternoon checking to see if you need wood or bait for fishing. Everything was clean and tidy

R

Rodney

October 2025

6 m travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Blackiron

Great place, easy to access and perfect place to camp. Owners Friendly. Will definitely be going back.

Nicky

October 2025

6 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Blackiron

This is our second time staying at Ben's property with our kids and dog. The river way may have changed following the previous wet season but this ment new places and swimming spots for us to explore. There is plenty of space between sites and fire pit scattered throughout.

W

Wade & Nicole

October 2025

5 m pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Ben Lomond Station

Absolutely loved our short stay at Ben Lomond Station. Sites are well spread out and relatively private. Colleen is very accomodating, and checked in on us! Fishing and crabbing on tap. Cant wait to return!!

J

Jodi

September 2025

5 m pop-up camper

With kids

1 night at Blackiron

Beautiful spot and great communication from the host 😊