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Pet-friendly campsites in Australia: complete guide to camping with dogs

Camping guides

Pet-friendly campsites in Australia: complete guide to camping with dogs

•Aiden King
A woman in her 30s sitting on the open tailgate of a campervan, her golden retriever leaning against her legs, both looking out at an Australian coastal view. Late afternoon light. The moment feels intimate and connected — the dog isn't performing, just being with their person. Eucalyptus trees frame the shot. The van shows signs of travel — a surfboard on the roof rack, sandy towel draped over the door. Candid, warm, real bond between human and dog. Authentic style.

There's nothing quite like watching your four-legged family member bound along a beach at sunset or curl up beside you under a canopy of stars. For the 69% of Australian households with pets, leaving your furry companion behind isn't an option - and you don't have to.

From dog-friendly caravan parks along the Sunshine Coast to bush campsites in Victoria where your pup can roam off-lead, Australia offers countless pet-friendly camping experiences. With Camplify's community of RV owners - many of whom travel with their own pets - you can find the perfect campervan or motorhome that welcomes your dog on the adventure.

Why Camplify works for pet-friendly holidays

A friendly woman in her 40s (a Camplify owner) handing over campervan keys to a couple, while a border collie sits attentively beside her. Suburban Australian driveway. The van is clean and ready, with a "Pet Friendly" sticker visible on the window. Everyone is smiling — the owner is clearly giving tips about the van. Casual clothes, natural poses. The dog looks well-behaved and part of the handover. Authentic community moment. Authentic style.

Traditional hire companies often have strict no-pet policies. Camplify is different. As Australia's largest peer-to-peer RV sharing platform, we connect you directly with RV owners, many of whom travel with their own pets and understand what it takes to hit the road with a dog.

When you hire a dog-friendly campervan through Camplify, you tap into local expertise from owners who share insider tips on the best pet-friendly spots in their region. Whether you pick up from an owner's location or choose delivery directly to your campsite, you'll find flexibility that works for your travel style.

Sarah, a Gold Coast owner who travels with her border collie Pepper, puts it best: "I only list my van as pet-friendly because I know how important it is for families to travel together - and that includes the furry ones."

Find a pet-friendly campervan and caravan.

State-by-state guide to pet-friendly camping

New South Wales

NSW offers diverse pet-friendly camping, from coastal escapes to mountain retreats. There are plenty of dog-friendly caravan parks and private campsites welcome your pup.

Top picks:

The South Coast is a haven for dog owners. Tomakin, Ulladulla, and Batemans Bay offer pet-friendly sites steps from the beach. Check our NSW South Coast road trip guide for the best routes along this stunning stretch.

A red kelpie running at full speed along a wide, empty NSW beach at low tide. Ears flying, tongue out, pure joy. In the mid-ground, a couple walks hand-in-hand toward a campervan parked at the beach access point. Harsh mid-morning Australian summer light. Footprints and paw prints in the wet sand. The dog is off-lead and living their best life. No posing — this is a candid action shot of a dog experiencing freedom. Authentic style.

Byron Bay and Northern NSW around Coffs Harbour deliver that laid-back coastal vibe dogs love. Our Sydney to Byron Bay road trip covers the best camping spots along the way.

Port Stephens deserves special mention - see our dog-friendly camping in Port Stephens guide for the best spots. For more NSW inspiration, our dog-friendly road trips in NSW guide covers the best routes. Also check out our Pet-friendly camping around Newcastle: 7 best spots article.

Looking for something different? Explore our 5 unique campsites across NSW for hidden gems.

Victoria

Victoria packs incredible variety into its compact size - from alpine regions to stunning coastline, there's a dog-friendly campsite for every season.

Top picks:

Mornington Peninsula and Phillip Island offer coastal camping within striking distance of Melbourne. Our best camping spots near Melbourne guide covers the top options within three hours of the city.

A man hiking on a bush trail in Victorian high country, his blue heeler walking ahead on the trail, looking back as if to say "come on!" Tall eucalyptus forest, dappled light through the canopy. Both are slightly dusty from the walk. A campervan is visible parked at a bush campsite in the background, with awning out. The dog wears a simple collar, no fancy gear. Late afternoon adventure vibes. Real bushwalking moment. Authentic style.

Gippsland delivers remote bush camping where dogs can stretch their legs, while Wilsons Promontory offers Victoria's best coastal camping experience.

The Great Ocean Road provides spectacular scenery - check our Great Ocean Road itinerary for planning tips. Note that dogs are restricted in many coastal areas during summer.

Inland, Bright welcomes dogs with brilliant autumn camping. Our guide to Victoria's best autumn towns shows when to visit for peak colour.

Queensland

From the tropical north to the Gold Coast, Queensland delivers year-round pet-friendly camping. Winter is prime time when temperatures suit both you and your dog.

Top picks:

The Sunshine Coast stands out for pet-friendly camping, with hinterland options offering cool relief and coastal parks providing beach access. Our Sunshine Coast Hinterland guide reveals the best weekend escapes.

Noosa balances natural beauty with dog-friendly facilities - discover top things to do in Noosa for planning your trip.

A couple in their 40s having breakfast outside their motorhome at a Queensland bush campsite. A chocolate labrador lies on a camping mat between their chairs, completely relaxed, eyes half-closed. Morning light filtering through gum trees. Camp table with enamel mugs, French press coffee, and a bowl of dog kibble visible. Everyone is in casual clothes — trackies, bare feet. Unhurried morning energy. Camping clutter visible — towels drying, esky open. Authentic style.

The Gold Coast hinterland around Lamington offers pet-friendly sites away from tourist crowds. Our Gold Coast local camping spots guide features hidden gems the locals love. Lake Moogerah and Somerset Dam combine water activities with peaceful bush settings.

For something different, explore the Scenic Rim of Queensland - dramatic landscapes within easy reach of Brisbane.

Hervey Bay makes an excellent base for exploring Fraser Coast with your pet. Further north, explore tropical North Queensland for an adventure.

South Australia

SA's vast landscapes and lower population density mean more space for you and your dog. The state offers excellent pet-friendly caravan parks alongside genuine bush camping.

Top picks:

The Fleurieu Peninsula combines wine country with coastal camping—several caravan parks welcome dogs. The Riverland along the Murray offers riverside camping where dogs can splash and play.

A brindle staffy mix splashing into shallow water at a Murray River campsite in South Australia. Water droplets frozen mid-air. The dog's owner (a man in boardshorts) is mid-throw with a ball, laughing. A caravan is set up in the background on a grassy riverbank. Bright summer day, harsh light. Red river gums along the bank. The moment captures pure play — dog completely focused on the water. Candid action shot. Authentic style.

For road trip inspiration, our best road trips from Adelaide guide covers the top routes. The South Australia road trip ideas article has more options for exploring the state.

For dramatic outback scenery, head to the Flinders Ranges. Our guide to South Australia's best camping spots features five magical locations locals love.

Western Australia

WA's sheer size means endless pet-friendly possibilities, from southwest forests to rugged northern coastline. The state's relaxed vibe extends to dogs - many caravan parks welcome them warmly.

Top picks:

Around Perth, several pet-friendly options exist within an hour's drive. Margaret River offers wine country camping where your dog can join forest adventures—see our van adventurer's guide to Margaret River for insider tips.

Our pet-friendly camping spots in Western Australia guide features affordable, family-friendly options across the state.

Tasmania

Tasmania's compact size and natural beauty make it ideal for pet-friendly road trips. Cooler conditions suit many dogs, particularly breeds that struggle in mainland heat.

Top picks:

The East Coast from Freycinet to Bay of Fires features several pet-friendly caravan parks with beach access. Our van adventurer's guide to Freycinet covers this stunning peninsula.

The Tamar Valley welcomes dogs at many camping spots. Dogs aren't permitted in Tasmanian national parks, but private campgrounds throughout the state accommodate pets.

Check our Tasmania camping guide for the best options, or explore unmissable Tassie sights for trip planning.

Essential tips for camping with dogs

Before you go

POV shot from inside a garage: a family packing their campervan for a trip. A cream cavoodle sits in the open van doorway, watching the action with eager eyes. Dad loading an esky, mum with a checklist, kids carrying sleeping bags. Dog travel bag and water bowl already packed near the dog. Natural garage lighting. The scene is slightly chaotic but happy — the anticipation of adventure. Real family moment before departure. Authentic style.

Preparation matters when travelling Australia with a dog:

  • Vaccinations and health checks: Ensure your dog is current with vaccinations. Consider tick and flea prevention for your destination.

  • Book ahead: Pet-friendly sites fill quickly during school holidays. Many caravan parks have limited dog-friendly spots.

  • Check the rules: Every campsite has different pet policies. Some beaches have seasonal restrictions or designated off-lead times.

Choosing the right vehicle

When hiring a pet-friendly campervan through Camplify:

  • Size matters: A Great Dane needs more space than a Jack Russell. Consider whether your dog sleeps inside or prefers an awning area outside.

  • Flooring: Many pet-friendly RVs have easy-clean flooring - a blessing when sandy paws come inside.

  • Ventilation: Good airflow is crucial, particularly in warmer months. Roof vents, screened windows, and air conditioning keep your pup comfortable.

Browse our canine-friendly vans to see what's available.

Interior shot of a campervan bed area. A retired greyhound is curled up on a dog bed on the floor, looking completely at home. Through the open side window, an Australian bush campsite is visible. Afternoon light streaming in. The van interior shows signs of pet-friendly setup — easy-clean flooring, water bowl secured in corner, dog blanket. The greyhound looks peaceful and settled. Cosy, lived-in van life moment. Authentic style.

Life on the road

Tips from van life with dogs experts:

  • Routine matters: Maintain regular feeding times and walks. Consistency reduces anxiety.

  • Never leave dogs in hot vehicles: Temperatures inside a parked RV become dangerous within minutes.

  • Bring the essentials: Pack their regular food, favourite toys, and their own bed. Familiar items help dogs settle.

  • Exercise first: A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. A good walk before driving helps your pup relax.

Dog-friendly caravan parks: what to look for

A fenced off-lead dog area at an Australian caravan park. Three dogs playing — a beagle, a border collie, and a small terrier mix. Their owners chat in the background near the fence. Caravans and motorhomes visible beyond. Late afternoon light. The dogs are mid-play, natural and unposed. One owner is throwing a ball. The scene shows dogs being welcome and socialising. Grassy area with some shade trees. Real caravan park community moment. Authentic style.

Our community of travelling Camplify owners share what makes a caravan park truly dog-friendly:

  • Dedicated dog areas: The best parks have fenced off-lead exercise areas. Some offer dog wash stations.

  • Nearby walking trails: Parks with direct access to bushland or beach walks make morning exercise easy.

  • Shade and shelter: Look for parks with natural shade rather than relying solely on your awning.

  • Welcoming atmosphere: Some parks genuinely love dogs - treats at reception, friendly staff, welcoming campers.

For luxury options, explore our dog-friendly caravan parks across Australia.

Planning your pet-friendly adventure

Ready to hit the road with your dog? Here's how to start:

  • Search pet-friendly vehicles: Use Camplify's filters to find RVs that welcome dogs. Read owner profiles - many share specific details about what works for dogs in their vehicle.

  • Connect with the owner: Message the owner to discuss your dog's size, breed, and needs. This personal connection sets Camplify apart.

  • Choose your access option: Pick up from the owner's location or have your RV delivered to your first campsite.

  • Plan your route: Map pet-friendly stops. Our best road trips with dogs guide offers tried-and-tested routes.

Silhouette shot at sunset. A person sitting in a camp chair beside their campervan, their medium-sized mixed-breed dog sitting beside them, both watching the sunset over an Australian landscape. Fairy lights just starting to glow on the van awning. Orange and pink sky. The person's hand rests gently on the dog's head. A glass of wine on the camp table. The moment is quiet and connected — end of a good day. Emotional, peaceful, real. Authentic style.

Real stories from pet-loving travellers

Meet Ailie, the golden retriever who loves van life—her 10-day adventure shows what's possible with the right vehicle and attitude.

Read about Teddy's incredible Camplify adventure—a first-timer's perspective proving you don't need experience to create unforgettable memories.

For practical advice, our pet-proofing guide offers humorous but genuinely useful tips.

Start your pet-friendly camping adventure

Night scene at a bush campsite. A couple sitting by a small campfire, their Australian shepherd lying at their feet, firelight reflecting in the dog's eyes. The campervan is parked nearby, interior lights on, creating a warm glow. Stars visible in the dark sky above. The scene is cosy and intimate. Everyone is relaxed — the dog's head rests on their paws. Camping chairs, blankets. A moment of quiet connection at the end of the day. Authentic style.

Australia's best pet-friendly campsites are waiting - and so is the perfect RV. With Camplify's community of pet-loving owners across every state, you'll find a vehicle that welcomes your whole family, furry members included.

Browse pet-friendly campervans, motorhomes, and caravans from local Camplify owners. The best camping memories are the ones you share with your best mate.

The information in this blog is accurate and current as of the date of posting. Please be aware that information, facts, and links may become outdated over time.