Ben Lomond Station (Site 4)

🏕️ Ben Lomond Station – Site 4 (Gum Tree Flat)

Halfway between Bowen and Airlie Beach, QLD (~25 min south of Bowen, 35 min north of Airlie Beach)

🌄 Description & Location

“Gum Tree Flat” is one of the most popular campsites at Ben Lomond Station, nestled beside a bend in Eden Lassie Creek. It features a flat, shaded grassy clearing with majestic gum trees and a gentle breeze — perfect for creek-side fishing, crabbing, and enjoying the natural serenity.

🏛️ History

The Peggs family formalised 12 designated nature-based camping sites on their 1,800‑acre working cattle property in 2024, transforming informal bush setups into managed, rustic campsites.

🛁 Facilities and Amenities

• No toilets or showers — fully self‑contained campers only

• Stone-bordered campfire ring; firewood available for purchase or self-collected

• Pet‑friendly (dogs ok, pets mustn’t disturb cattle or other campers)

🚗 Vehicle Access

• Access via dirt road for 4WD only; high clearance vehicles strongly advised

• Suitable for off-road caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, and tents

• Drive-through sites are unavailable; back-in only

Stay Information (as at July 2025)

• Site type: Informal bush campground on working cattle station

• Fees apply

• Booking: Essential — via Hipcamp or direct contact with station owners

• Managing Authority: Private (Rob & Colleen Pegg)

• Maximum stay: Not specified—check Hipcamp listing

• Pets: Allowed (must not disturb livestock or campers)

• Self-contained: Must be fully self-contained

• Entry notes: Permission and directions required—don’t rely on GPS/Google Maps

• Contact: Book via Hipcamp; station phone: 0428 171 692

  Public note: Minimal facilities — bring water, toilet, shower, and leave no trace.

🍻 Nearby Pubs & Clubs

• Bowen Tavern (~25 km north): Traditional country pub with hearty fare

• Golden Beach Hotel (~27 km north): Waterfront setting and local favourites

• Bowen Bowls Club (~25 km): Relaxed community atmosphere

🎯 Nearby Campgrounds

• Harbour Lights Caravan Park (Bowen, 25 km): Powered/unpowered sites & amenities

• Queens Beach Tourist Village (Bowen, 25 km): Beachside sites and cabins

🌿 Nearby Attractions

• Eden Lassie Creek: Excellent for estuary fishing (crabs, prawns), kayaking

• Abundant Burdekin plum and mango trees, wallabies and river birds on site

• Scenic 4WD tracks through Whitsundays pastoral country

🛒 Nearest Supplies

• Bowen township (~25 km): Woolworths, IGA, fuel, pharmacy, hardware

• Bowen Medical Centre: Standard healthcare services

• On-site: Bring all water and supplies; none provided

🌟 Reviews Summary

👍 Highlights

• Flat, shaded, grassy site with creek access ideal for fishing/crabbing

• Quiet, private, and scenic — popular with families and nature lovers

• Designated firepit and spacious layout; beautiful gum-tree setting

⚠️ Cautions

• Absolutely no facilities—fully self-contained vehicles a must

• 4WD only access; rough roads may challenge some setups

• Remote, so bring all essential supplies and plan for contingencies

🆘 Breakdown & Emergency Info

• Fuel: Bowen (~25 km)

• Mobile: Telstra/Optus coverage decent, but creekside gaps possible

• Repairs: Basic mechanical services in Bowen; tow available

• UHF Channels: Road 40 / Emergency 5

• Safety: Cattle wander near campsites—supervise pets carefully

• Backup comms: EPIRB or PLB recommended in case of road or creek complications

• Emergencies: Dial 000; station owners reachable through Hipcamp booking or phone

📝 Final Note

Site 4 – Gum Tree Flat is a top pick for campers who crave creek-side solitude, fishing, and rustic charm under shady gum trees. Ideal for experienced 4WD adventurers, families, and dog owners ready to embrace full self-reliance. Bring essentials, enjoy the company of nature, and wake to the rhythm of the estuary — all with minimal comforts but maximum peace.