TOYOTA FEELING
Your Guide to Dog Friendly Camping
Who let the dogs out!
Nearly half of the Australian population cares for one, so it’s no shock that we love our pups with their tongue out the driver’s side window. As our furry friends join us on more outdoor adventures, it can be important to scope out your camping sites ahead of time. Let’s get you started with the spots that'll have your dog barking with joy, and the travel information you’ll need to stay prepared!
CANBERRA, ACT
Capital Country Holiday Park
Capital Country Holiday Park is one of the ACT Region’s leading caravan holiday parks, located only a 20-minute drive from Canberra city.
Take your furry friends on a day trip to the Cockington Green Gardens, or the Australian War Memorial, both local to the area. Come back to enjoy the wonderful swimming pool and tennis courts on site, and cook dinner over the provided fire pit. Plus, Lake Burley Griffin is only a 20-minute drive from camp, if your dog is looking to get some salty wind in their fur.
We recommend the Dog Freedom campsites, so your companion has more space to roam around while you’re winding down from a long day of activities. There’s only four, so book ahead of time!
GIPPSLAND, VIC
Best Friend Holiday Retreat
Located two-and-a-half-hours east of Melbourne and only 3km from the cool temperate rainforest of Tarra-Bulga National Park, the Best Friend Holiday Retreat is the perfect place to take your four-legged friend. With six individual off-leash areas, an all-year-round waterfall and a range of cabins to suit your price range and your particular dog’s needs, there’s something for every owner.
Your dog can sleep securely inside the fenced premises of your cabin, or within the luxury kennels while you fish for trout or collect seasonal nuts and berries. After running around all day, treat them to a hydro-bath from one of the experienced staff members – outdoor pampering at its finest.
Top tip: The dog’s basics are easy to remember. Don’t forget those extra little things that make the trip wonderful. Their favourite ball to fetch, a doggy bed to join you under the stars (and some poop bags, for the inevitable!). |
HUNTER VALLEY, NSW
Wine Country Tourist Park
Situated in the beautiful Hunter Valley, Wine Country Tourist Park is a small family-owned caravan park and an ideal base to experience the nearby vineyards, award winning restaurants, and more. Located within walking distance to everything you’d want to visit, this place is perfect for your smaller furry mates who get fed up on long walks.
Spend your days at some of the local pet-friendly wineries like Hungerford Hill Wines, Pepper Tree Wines, or the Leogate Estate Winery before retiring to the campsite at night. With a fully functional woodfired oven and fire pit (with wood provided!) and well-kept on-site amenities, the only thing missing is you, your buddy, and their favourite treats.
Top tip: Ensure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations and flea/tick prevention. You don't want your buddy picking up any unwanted hitchhikers, do you? |
NORTH-EAST COAST, TAS
Bay of Fires Conservation Area
The Bay of Fires Conservation Area is a series of magnificent bays stretching across Tasmania’s north-east coast. It’s home to stunning rock formations and is pet friendly, while welcoming both campervans or tents.
We recommend one of the elevated camp sites, protected by coastal vegetation and host to some magnificent views of the shoreline. Perfect for adventurers and their furry friends who love long leisurely walks, fishing off the rocks, swimming in the bays, or looking out for pods of dolphins.
Top tip: A lot of these spots are quite secluded and subject to harsh sun, so pack more water and sunblock than you think you’ll need. Apply and hydrate (especially your pup!) even more than you think you should. |
GYMPIE REGION, QLD
Amamoor State Forest
Nestled in the Amamoor State Forest beside the Amamoor Creek is a gorgeous camping site that beckons you and your dog to soak in some peace and quiet. Flanked by gum trees and the beautiful sounds of the outdoors, you can look forward to a serene getaway and a proper camping experience.
It’s a 16km drive west of Amamoor township via Amamoor Creek Road, so make sure you have everything before you set out and set up camp.
Be sure to explore Cook’s Knob, a pet-friendly 11km hike located within Amamoor State Forest, known for its populations of the Bunya Pine, Red Cedar, Hoop Pine and White Cedar, along with refreshing watering holes. You might even see some Platypuses on your journey!
Top tip: Different campgrounds have different rules about bringing pets, so make sure you check the fine print on your National Government Parks Website, or the campsites webpage. |
ALICE SPRINGS, NT
Heritage Caravan Park Alice Springs
The Heritage Caravan Park sits at the base of the majestic MacDonnell Ranges only 5km out of Alice Springs Town Center. This makes it the perfect spot to explore the beautiful nature Central Australia has to offer.
There are many attractions in Alice Springs worth exploring, but you won’t want to miss the MacDonnell Ranges. Famous for their red peaks and gorges, their ever-changing landscape will constantly have your jaw dropping and your dog begging for a longer walk. And you’ll be inclined to indulge them.
Between adventures, be sure to discover the local culture at the nearby museums and galleries, before returning back to the campsite for a yarn and a bite to eat with your neighbours.
Top tip: Most importantly, live one step at a time! Allow space for the trip to change and evolve, based on what you both feel like doing once you’re there. |
It doesn’t take much to turn a campsite into a wonderful haven of fun for you and your dog. Keep it simple. All of these locations are right on the brink of rich Australian flora and fauna – the perfect setting for a luxurious swim or an adventurous hike! Even a simple game of fetch at a local park can be a memorable experience.
Top tip: Make sure you get your Toyota up to speed for road trips and take a visit to our accessories page – you won’t believe how the world opens up to a Toyota driver that’s ready for a secure adventure. |
Australia is home to some of the most beautiful outdoor spaces the world has to offer you and your furry friend, so get amongst it! These sites are waiting to welcome you and yours with open arms and a pat on the head.