Passmore Reserve – Ellangowan QLD Free Camp

Passmore Reserve offers a quintessential free bush camping experience for travellers exploring the Southern Darling Downs region of Queensland. Located in the quiet rural area of Ellangowan, this reserve provides a large, open, and grassy area for camping right alongside the tranquil Canal Creek. It is the perfect spot for those who are fully self-contained and seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. The charm of Passmore Reserve lies in its simplicity and its natural setting. There are no marked bays; campers are free to choose their own spot, whether it’s under the shade of a large gum tree or in a more open, sunny position. The large, flat grounds make it suitable for all types of setups, from big rigs and caravans to camper trailers and tents.

This is a primitive campground with no facilities, which is a key part of its appeal for self-sufficient campers. There are no toilets, no showers, no potable water, and no rubbish bins. Visitors must bring everything they need, including their own water and power, and adhere to a strict “leave no trace” ethos by taking all their rubbish with them. The creek provides a scenic backdrop and is a popular spot for fishing or simply relaxing by the water’s edge. The reserve is pet-friendly, allowing four-legged companions to enjoy the open space. Its relative seclusion means it’s generally a quiet spot, offering a chance to enjoy the sounds of the Australian bush, watch the birdlife, and enjoy a star-filled sky at night. For those needing supplies, the historic town of Leyburn is just a short drive away, offering a classic country pub and basic provisions.

Campsite Information

• Location: Rural setting on the banks of Canal Creek, near Leyburn.
• Site Suitable For: Fully self-contained vehicles of all sizes, including big rigs, caravans, and tents.
• Road Access: Access is via a gravel/dirt road (Passmore Rd). Can be slippery after rain.
• Site Surface: Grass and dirt. Can get boggy in wet weather.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, free camping.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: No specified limit, but short-term stays are expected.
• Facilities: None. This is a primitive bush camp.
• Potable Water: No. You must bring your own water supply.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Limited and variable, Telstra generally performs best.
• TV Reception: Possible with a good antenna.
• Onsite Public Toilets: No.
• Rubbish Bins: No. All rubbish must be taken with you.
• Open Fires: Generally permitted, subject to local fire restrictions. Bring your own firewood.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with consideration for other campers.
• Number of Sites Available: Large, undefined area with plenty of space.
• Essentials to Bring: Your own toilet, shower, water, power, and rubbish bags.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are welcome and must be kept under control.
• Fishing: Yes, fishing is possible in Canal Creek.
• Short Walks: Plenty of space for walking around the reserve and along the creek.

Local Amenities (in Leyburn, ~15 km away)

• Local Pubs: Royal Hotel Leyburn.
• Places to Eat: The pub and a local cafe/general store.
• Local Attractions: Leyburn Historic Village, Leyburn Sprints (annual motorsport event).
• Nearest Caravan Parks: Leyburn Motel & Caravan Park.
• Next Free Camps: Yelarbon Lagoon (Lees Reserve), Pampas Rest Area.
• Nearest Dump Points: A public dump point is available in nearby Clifton.
• Nearest Petrol Station: Available in Leyburn.
• Drinking Water Resupply: Check for public taps in Leyburn or Clifton.
• Public Toilets: Available in the town of Leyburn.

Seasonal Weather Forecast: Ellangowan, QLD

• Summer (December – February): Hot days, often exceeding 30°C, with warm nights. High chance of thunderstorms and rain.
• Autumn (March – May): Warm, sunny days with milder temperatures and less humidity. A very pleasant time to visit.
• Winter (June – August): Cool, dry, and sunny days with cold nights. Frosts are common overnight, with temperatures dropping close to 0°C.
• Spring (September – November): Warming temperatures with sunny days. Rain becomes more likely towards the end of the season.