Mount Gordon Rest Area – Bowen

The Mount Gordon Rest Area, often referred to as the Bowen Lookout, is a must-see stop on the Bruce Highway, offering what are arguably some of the most spectacular coastal views in Queensland. Perched high on a hill just south of Bowen, this 24-hour free rest area provides breathtaking panoramic vistas that stretch from the lush agricultural fields of the Bowen delta, across the town itself, and out to the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea, encompassing Gloucester Island and the northern Whitsunday Islands. The view alone makes this a legendary stop for travellers. While primarily a lookout, it is also a designated rest area, providing a sealed, sloping parking area suitable for caravans and motorhomes to stay overnight. The facilities are basic but functional, with toilets and covered picnic tables perfect for a lunch break while soaking in the scenery. It’s an ideal spot to witness a stunning sunrise, with the light slowly illuminating the islands and the coastline. Given its position and popularity, space can be limited, and finding a perfectly level spot requires some care. Its proximity to Bowen makes it an excellent first or last stop when visiting the town, providing a perfect orientation to the beautiful coastal landscape. It serves as a fantastic, no-cost option to break a long drive, stretch the legs, and capture some incredible photographs.

Site Information

• Location: On the Bruce Highway, about 5 km south of the Bowen town centre.
• Site Suitable For: All vehicle types, though the parking area is on a slope, so levelling ramps are essential for vans.
• Road Access: Sealed highway.
• Site Surface: Bitumen.
• Camping Permitted: Yes, this is a free 24-hour maximum stay rest area.
• Maximum Overnight Stays: 24 hours.
• Facilities: Toilets, rubbish bins, sheltered picnic tables, information shelter.
• Picnic Tables: Yes, covered tables are available.
• Potable Water: No. Bring your own drinking water.
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Excellent for all major carriers.
• TV Reception: Excellent.
• Onsite Public Toilets: Yes.
• Rubbish Bins: Yes.
• Open Fires: Prohibited.
• Generator Use: Not recommended due to the close proximity of other vehicles.
• Number of Sites Available: Limited space on a sloping car park. Arrive early for the best chance of a spot.
• Essentials to Bring: Levelling chocks/ramps for your vehicle.
• Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash.
• Fishing: No. Excellent fishing is available in Bowen itself.
• Short Walks: Short walk around the lookout area to various viewing platforms.

Local Amenities

All major services and amenities are located in the nearby town of Bowen (approx. 5 km).

• Local Pubs:
  • Grand View Hotel (approx. 5 km)
  • Central Hotel (approx. 5 km)
  • Bowen Hotel (approx. 5 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:
  • Horseshoe Bay Resort (approx. 8 km)
  • Bowen Palms Caravan Park (approx. 4 km)
  • Many other options in Bowen.
• Next Free Camps:
  • Guthalungra Rest Area (24hr, approx. 40 km south)
  • Home Hill Comfort Stop (48hr, donation, approx. 70 km north)
• 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 onsite and 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.