Ben Lomond Station- Site 1 (Burdekin Plum)

🏕️ Ben Lomond Station – Site 1 (Burdekin Plum)

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

🌄 Description & Location

This secluded riverside site sits on a working cattle station at Eden Lassie Creek’s upper tidal reaches—ideal for estuary fishing, crabbing, birdwatching and soaking up open, rustic landscape. Fringed by Burdekin plum and mango trees with mountain views in the distance, it promises privacy and serenity.

🏛️ History

Ben Lomond Station is a longstanding cattle property now diversifying into managed nature-based camping. Owners Rob & Colleen Pegg began hosting via Hipcamp in 2020; in 2024 they formally opened 12 designated camping sites with council approval, formalising what began as a more informal arrangement.

🛁 Facilities and Amenities

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

• Single drop loo (“Thunderbox”) near one site

• Designated campfire ring/storage area with available firewood (fee or collect fallen wood)

• Pet‑friendly (dogs allowed, must not disturb cattle)

🚗 Vehicle Access

• Access via dirt road—4 WD only (high-clearance essential; corrugations and dips)

• Caravans off-road possible on robust setups; tents and camper trailers OK

• Drive‑through not available—back-in sites only

Stay Information (as at July 2025)

• Site type: Bush campground on cattle station

• Fees apply

• Booking: Essential—via Hipcamp or direct invitation

• Managing Authority: Private station (Rob & Colleen Pegg)

• Maximum stay: Not specified—typical nature‑camp terms (check booking)

• Pets: Allowed (must not annoy cattle/other campers)

• Self-contained: Must be fully self-contained

• Entry notes: Ask for access permission—don’t follow Google Maps; owner provides directions

• Contact: Book via Hipcamp; phone: 0428 171 692 (Colleen)

  Public note: Site is informal bush camping—amenities minimal. No water or showers provided.

🍻 Nearby Pubs & Clubs

• Bowen Tavern (25 km north): Classic country pub with hearty meals

• Golden Beach Hotel (27 km north): Waterfront venue popular with locals

• Bowen Bowls Club (25 km): Laid-back meals, bowls, and social atmosphere

🎯 Nearby Campgrounds

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

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

🌿 Nearby Attractions

• Eden Lassie Creek: Estuary fishing (mud crab, prawns), kayaking, wildlife viewing

• Burdekin Plum trees on-site—seasonal fruit around site 1

• Wallaby & kangaroo sightings common around dusk/dawn

• Additional: Gregory River picnic spots, scenic drives through Whitsundays countryside

🛒 Nearest Supplies

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

• Bowen Medical Centre: Essential health services

• Carry sufficient water—none available on-site

🌟 Reviews Summary

👍 Highlights

• Massive sites and plenty of space near the river

• Quiet and peaceful with great views

• Excellent for privacy, wildlife, estuary-based activities

⚠️ Cautions

• No facilities—self-contained vehicles only

• 4WD access only; high clearance required

• Remote location—bring all supplies and emergency plan

🆘 Breakdown & Emergency Info

• Fuel: Bowen (25 km)

• Mobile: Generally good Telstra/Optus; gaps possible onsite

• Repairs: Basic services in Bowen; tow available

• UHF: Road channel 40; Emergency only 5

• Safety: Cattle may wander near campsites—secure pets and observe quietly

• Backup comms: Bring EPIRB or PLB for remote access

• Emergencies: Dial 000; station owners responsive via Hipcamp contact

📝 Final Note

Site 1 at Ben Lomond Station is perfect for self-reliant bush campers seeking solitude, creek fishing, and stars under quiet skies. Ideal for families, 4WD adventurers, or nature lovers prepared to go off-grid. Bring your own water, showers, and fridge—this is genuine bush camping. Expect privacy, space for kids and dogs, and a sense of wild freedom, but no creature comforts.