Glen Erin Farmstay-bush Camp – Bowen

Glen Erin Farmstay offers a tranquil and authentic bush camping experience, providing a welcome escape just a short distance from the Bruce Highway and the coastal town of Bowen. Nestled in a picturesque rural setting, this private property is a haven for self-sufficient travellers seeking peace, quiet, and a genuine connection with the Australian countryside. The campground is set on a working property, offering spacious, grassy unpowered sites where visitors can spread out and enjoy the natural surroundings. It’s an ideal spot for fully self-contained vehicles like caravans, motorhomes, and camper trailers, with a focus on a simple, back-to-nature stay. The appeal of Glen Erin lies in its serene atmosphere; it’s a place to unwind, listen to the sounds of native birdlife, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Whitsunday hinterland. The farm stay is known for being very pet-friendly, with plenty of space for dogs to explore under supervision. The hosts are typically praised for their warm and friendly country hospitality, making guests feel right at home. While facilities are minimal, the experience is about the location and the escape it provides. Its proximity to Bowen means it serves as a fantastic, affordable base for exploring the region’s famous attractions, from the stunning Horseshoe Bay to the iconic Big Mango, without having to stay in the busier town centre. For a quiet, friendly, and genuine bush camp, Glen Erin is a superb choice.

Site Information

• Location: In a rural area approximately 12 km south of Bowen.
• Site Suitable For: Self-contained vehicles are preferred. Tents, camper trailers, caravans, and motorhomes.
• Road Access: Sealed road, with a final short stretch of good quality gravel road.
• Site Surface: Grass.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, this is a paid farm stay, typically booked through platforms like Hipcamp. Bookings are essential.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: Check with hosts when booking.
• Number of Un-powered Sites: Numerous spacious unpowered sites available.
• Facilities: Basic facilities may be available; best to be fully self-contained.
• Picnic Tables: No.
• Potable Water: It is recommended to bring your own main supply of drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Good for Telstra.
• TV Reception: Good.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Check with host; not guaranteed.
• Rubbish Bins: No. This is a leave-no-trace property; you must take all rubbish with you.
• Open Fires: Check with hosts; generally permitted in fire pits subject to local fire bans.
• Generator Use: Permitted, with considerate use for other guests.
• Number of Sites Available: Many sites across a large property.
• Essentials to Bring: It is best to be fully self-contained with your own toilet, shower, and power.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, this is a very pet-friendly location.
• Fishing: The nearby Don River and coastal areas of Bowen offer excellent fishing.
• Short Walks: Excellent walking opportunities around the farm property.

Local Amenities

All major services are located in the nearby town of Bowen (approx. 12 km).

• Local Pubs:
  • Grand View Hotel (approx. 12 km)
  • Central Hotel (approx. 12 km)
  • Bowen Hotel (approx. 12 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • Numerous hotels, cafes, restaurants, and takeaway shops in Bowen.
• Local Attractions:
  • The Big Mango
  • Horseshoe Bay
  • Grays Bay and Rose Bay
  • Bowen’s murals and historical walk
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • This is a private campground. Options include Bowen Palms Caravan Park and parks closer to the beaches.
• Next Free Camps:
  • Mount Gordon Rest Area (24hr, approx. 8 km)
  • Guthalungra Rest Area (24hr, approx. 50 km south)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • A public dump point is available in Bowen at the showgrounds.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • Multiple service stations are available in Bowen.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available throughout Bowen.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

Bowen is located in the ‘Dry Tropics’ and is known for having more sunshine hours than many other parts of the North Queensland coast.