Oh Deere farm stay – Calen

Oh Deere Farm Stay is a charming and peaceful bush campground that offers travellers a genuine country escape in the beautiful Pioneer Valley region, just north of Mackay. Located on a private property in Calen, this farm stay provides a welcome retreat from the busy Bruce Highway, allowing guests to unwind in a serene, natural setting. The campground is set on a well-maintained part of the farm, offering spacious, flat, and grassy unpowered sites suitable for a range of self-contained setups, from tents to large caravans. The experience is centred on a simple, back-to-nature philosophy, where the main attractions are the tranquillity and the picturesque rural landscape. It’s an exceptionally pet-friendly destination, with hosts who welcome furry friends as part of the family, and plenty of open space for them to enjoy. The hosts are renowned for their friendly, welcoming nature, ensuring all guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. While facilities are geared towards self-sufficient campers, the property often provides access to basic amenities. Its location is a key benefit, providing a quiet farm atmosphere while being a convenient base for exploring the surrounding attractions, including the pristine beaches of the Hibiscus Coast, Cape Hillsborough National Park for its famous sunrise with the wallabies, and the historic town of Mackay. For those seeking an affordable, friendly, and authentic country stay, Oh Deere Farm Stay is a delightful find.

Site Information

• Location: In Calen, approximately 60 km north of Mackay.
• 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 St Helens Beach and coastal creeks offer excellent fishing.
• Short Walks: Excellent walking opportunities around the farm property.

Local Amenities

The nearest small town is Calen, with major services in Mackay (south) or Proserpine (north).

• Local Pubs:
  • Calen Hotel (approx. 8 km)
  • Seaforth Bowls Club (has a bar) (approx. 25 km)
  • Midge Point Tavern (approx. 40 km)
• Places to Eat:
  • The Calen Hotel and a local cafe/roadhouse.
• Local Attractions:
  • Cape Hillsborough National Park (Sunrise with the Wallabies)
  • St Helens Beach
  • Eungella National Park (day trip)
• Nearest Caravan Parks:
  • This is a private campground. Other options include Seaforth Holiday Park and parks in Mackay.
• Next Free Camps:
  • Bloomsbury Rest Area (24hr, approx. 20 km)
  • Waverley Creek Rest Area (24hr, approx. 170 km south)
• Nearest Dump Points:
  • A public dump point is available in Mackay at the Showgrounds.
• Nearest Petrol Station:
  • A service station is available in Calen.
• Drinking Water Resupply:
  • Available in Mackay.
• Public Toilets:
  • Available in the town of Calen.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Mackay and Whitsunday region has a tropical climate, with a hot and humid wet season and a warm, dry winter.