Written by Nicole Cooper and Jess Olson.
Camping with furry family members is becoming one of Australia’s favourite pastimes. When it comes to holidaying, finding a place to stay that is pet-friendly can be tricky. Until now. We’ve thrown together the best Australian pet-friendly four-wheel drive camping sites to take the hassle out of planning your next adventure with your four-legged best mate.
Swan Gully Park, Bromelton, QLD
Perfect for easy access from Brisbane and the Gold Coast (a 1.15-hour drive), Swan Gully Park allows pets, as long as they are kept under control and you clean up after them. Your pet must also be fully vaccinated and sociable with other animals. There are an impressive 900 acres of camping and 4WD tracks for you to explore, so you’re bound to have an incredible time!
Be sure to check the Swan Gully Park Facebook page for updates on the campground areas and upcoming events.
- Facilities: Toilet and shower.
- Suitable for: Most 4X4 drivers. Tracks range from easy off-road right up to winches required.
Straddie camping, North Stradbroke Island, QLD
It’s so easy to see why North Stradbroke Island is popular with four-wheel driving fans, surfers and fishermen. Amazing tracks, gnarly waves, and sea life aplenty. Don’t be surprised if you see dolphins, turtles, kangaroos and koalas – they are all here. The camping sites on Flinders Beach and Main Beach are the pick; they are all dog-friendly. In other parts, your pup is required to be on a leash.
- Facilities: Toilets, showers, BBQ facilities, washing machine, dishwashing area, Wi-Fi, power and water.
- Suitable for: 4WDs.
Riverwood Downs, Barrington tops, NSW
A unique country resort in the foothills of the Barrington Tops, Riverwood Downs has the glamping or camping thing down pat. Definitely take the time to explore the five kilometres of river frontage and shady walking trails, perfect for walking your puppy. Remember to be courteous, your dog must be under your control at all times and picked up after.
- Facilities: Licensed restaurant, bar and grill, swimming pool, half-court tennis and games room.
- Suitable for: Families and all vehicle types.
Alexander Bay, Esperance, WA
If you like camping where mobile phone reception may not be accessible (I do!), then Alexander Bay is for you. Here, you can enjoy great off-road tracks, a stunning coastline perfect for swimming and a shady camping area. The access road is also unsealed – perfect for a bit of 4WD fun. Dogs are allowed but they must be on a lead.
- Facilities: Long drop toilets.
- Suitable for: Located 100 kilometres east of Esperance, this campsite has poor road surface and is only accessible by 4WD.
Rivers Edge Wilderness Camping, Lonnavale TAS
Tasmania’s Rivers Edge Wilderness Camping boasts 45 tranquil large campsites near the banks of the river. You’ll find great fishing spots and a river pool for the kids (and man’s best friend) to keep cool in. This gem is great for 4X4 fun, mountain biking, horse riding, plus so much more.
- Facilities: Toilets, showers, fire pots, BBQ, golf course, walking circuit, camper’s kitchen, wood-heated lounge area.
- Suitable for: Families and all vehicle types.
Loveday 4X4 Adventure Park, SA
Two hours east of Adelaide, Loveday 4X4 Adventure Park has it all, from relaxing river camping to hardcore 4X4 driving through the incredible 8000 acres of private property. You certainly won’t leave here without a whole heap of new four-wheel driving memories. Dogs are welcome, but will not be allowed in the tavern or on the lawns.
- Facilities: Kids playground area and tavern.
- Suitable for: Campsites are 2WD, caravan and boat friendly.
Johanna Beach Camping Area, Great Otway National Park, VIC
Located between coastal sand dunes, a grassy hinterland and a beach, Johanna Beach Camping Area is the only pet-friendly campground in the area, and it just so happens to be an epic one. Take the time to get out and explore the incredible scenery surrounding this region, including the famous Great Ocean Walk and the almost never-ending sets of gnarly surfing waves. Melba Gully, the Twelve Apostles, Cape Otway Lightstation, and Triplet Falls are all less than an hour’s drive away! Note: dogs must be kept on their leads.
- Facilities: Non-flush toilets.
- Suitable for: All vehicles.
Willangi Bush Escapes, Peterborough, SA
Willangi Bush Escapes is a beautiful property in the Southern Flinders Ranges. The bush campsites are all situated in private areas and there is even a ‘bush bath site’ for something a little special. While you’re there, explore the high-range 4X4 tracks to end up at a gorgeous site at the top of the hills.
- Facilities: Drop toilet.
- Suitable for: 4WDs.
