Site to Sights
Ben Lomond Station (Site 4)
Bowen QLD
Category:
Camping Ground
Whitsundays Mackay QLD
Area
QLD: GREATER WHITSUNDAYS
GPS:
-21.0693502, 149.0150071
Nearby Sights/Things To Do
🏕️ 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.