Camping near Bowen

Choose between eight beaches and dozens of island getaways at this coastal paradise.

98% (855 reviews)
98% (855 reviews)

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12 top campgrounds near Bowen

99%
(650)

Ben Lomond Station

6 sites · RVs, Tents1800 acres · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$18
 / night
* Before taxes and fees
96%
(76)

Gully Getaway

17 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Proserpine, QLD
Bush camping along the banks of a seasonal Gully that is lined with huge, majestic paperbark trees. There are 10 separate camp spots and all have a slashed track to the pit toilet. 3 in shady areas away from the gully that are suitable for Caravans. 3 located near the Gully, suitable for Caravans and larger groups and 4 that are located near the Gully but only suitable for camp trailers, roof top tents and smaller groups. Enjoy nature and feel free to explore the gully with it's many natural bridges and hidden animal habitats. As this is a working family farm, cattle from the remaining property will graze this Gully block from time to time so all gates must remain closed. We also ask that children are supervised at all times and advise that the Gully is not suitable for swimming. Kelsey Creek is a cane farming district and a small gauge train line goes past the property which makes for a lovely rural experience. Keep an eye out for the glow in the sky and you might get to witness a cane fire also. Being only 7 minutes west of Proserpine it is well located to take in the beauty of the Whitsundays. Gully Getaway is in an Environmental Protection Zone that restricts trees being felled and the removal of debris in the watercourse, so please do not use for firewood.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$18
 / night
* Before taxes and fees

Under $50

Dog-friendly getaways

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Bowen guide

Overview

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.

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