Call off the petsitters! It’s time to load your furry pal into the caravan with you and let them join in all the adventures on the road. Choosing a pet-friendly caravan park can turn a simple getaway into a memorable trip for your entire family—paws included. These parks offer a safe and enjoyable environment for pets to play, relax and explore alongside you. We take a look at the features that truly make a park pet-friendly and introduce some of the top pet-friendly caravan parks across Australia. Whether you’re planning a beachside retreat or an outback adventure, discovering the perfect spot for you and your pet is easier than ever.
Choosing a Pet-Friendly Caravan Park
When choosing a caravan park for a trip with your pet, it’s important to consider the specific features and amenities that will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for both you and your furry friend.
Accommodation Options and Amenities for Pets
A truly pet-friendly caravan park goes beyond just allowing pets and actually caters to their needs. This can include pet-friendly cabins or dedicated areas within campsites where pets are welcome, along with pet beds, food bowls and welcome treats to make your pet feel at home.
Around the caravan park, they might also offer off-leash zones where pets can run and play without a leash and get some all-important exercise. Plus a bathing station, so after a day full of activities you have a place to wash your pet before returning to your caravan.
Park Rules and Regulations Regarding Pets
Understanding the park’s rules and regulations around pets is important before booking your stay. These can vary widely from one park to another and may include:
Top Pet-Friendly Caravan Parks in Australia
Exploring Australia with your pet is an adventure made easier with the right accommodation. Here are some of the best pet-friendly caravan parks across the country.
Marengo Holiday Park
Located on the Great Ocean Road, just outside Apollo Bay, Marengo Holiday Park offers a fabulous seaside escape where pets are warmly welcomed. This park is nestled directly on the oceanfront, providing breathtaking views and easy access to Marengo Beach.
The park allows pets throughout the year, making it a great choice if you wish to explore the Great Ocean Road with your furry companion. You can read their dedicated Dog and Animal Policy that ensures your pet’s stay is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible.
The surrounding area offers numerous walking trails perfect for morning strolls or hikes with your pet. Marengo Reef Marine Sanctuary is also just across the road, which is home to a resident seal colony, where you can enjoy swimming, diving and snorkelling. The beach itself also allows dogs on leads, where they can splash in the waves or play fetch on the sand.
BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park
Situated in the heart of the Gold Coast, the BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park is the perfect family-friendly accommodation that also caters to your furry friends.
The park features 32 acres of off-leash doggy space where they can run free with a purpose-built pet wash station to clean them off after a day of fun. Their dedicated caravan sites cater for up to two dogs and even offer dog-friendly ensuite sites for added luxury.
With its own doggy daycare, you can head off and enjoy the nearby attractions like Movie World, Wet’n’Wild and more. The park is also near several dog-friendly beaches and parks, including The Spit Dog Beach and Salt Water Fenced Dog Park, so you have plenty of opportunities for walking, swimming and playing.
NRMA Bathurst Panorama Holiday Park
Located in the historic city of Bathurst, New South Wales, the NRMA Bathurst Panorama Holiday Park offers a scenic view of the famous Mount Panorama, home to the Bathurst 1000 car race.
The holiday park offers specific pet-friendly sites where you can park your caravans with your furry friends. These sites provide space and comfort for pets, ensuring they have plenty of room to enjoy the fresh air.
The surrounding area is ideal for walking and exploring with pets. You can also head over to the Mount Panorama Circuit and stroll around the iconic racetrack during non-event times.
Gum Tree Caravan Park
Gum Tree Caravan Park is located in the coastal town of Port Fairy, along the Great Ocean Road. This family-owned park offers a warm, welcoming spot for both you and your furry friends.
Gum Tree Caravan Park prides itself on being pet-friendly year-round, allowing pets at both their camping and caravan sites. Dogs do have to remain on a leash at all times, however there’s an off-leash area and playground so your pets can enjoy a run around as well.
The park is a short drive from East Beach where pets can run freely and play in the sand and waves. There are also plenty of scenic trails around the area that explore the coastline. The area also has several cafes and outdoor cafes to enjoy a meal together, including Banks St + Co and Charlie’s on East.
Caravanning with Pets
Hitting the road with your furry friend by your side can bring so much joy and companionship to every trip. With just a little research before you go, you can find the perfect pet-friendly spots that cater to your pets and will truly make your holiday even more magical. The caravan parks in this article, from the serene shores of Marengo to the historic landscapes of Bathurst, are all fitted with thoughtful amenities and activities designed for your furry family. Whether it’s walking along pristine beaches, hiking through lush forests, or simply relaxing, the pet-friendly caravan parks across Australia are perfect for those looking to share their travel experiences with their pets.
