5 Dog-Friendly Holiday Parks In NSW
They are man’s best friend. They’re part of the family. And for many, they’re a huge part of what makes travelling around the country so much fun.
We’re talking about dogs, of course! And today, we are going to be taking a look at the best spots and pet-friendly holiday parks in NSW where four-legged travellers are welcome too.
What Does Dog-Friendly Mean?
Terms and conditions apply when you’re travelling with pets. And they can vary from park to park and location to location.
Dogs are typically accepted at the discretion of management.
That’s why, even if advertised as “dog-friendly”, it’s important to contact management prior to making a booking, or showing up to the park unannounced, so you can discuss the specifics of your dog and travel requirements.
Date restrictions often apply.
Many holiday parks will not accept dogs during long weekends, peak periods or school holidays.
Size can manner.
While small dogs may be welcome at some parks, larger breeds may not be.
A set number of dogs may only be permitted in the park at any given time. If already at capacity, your dog may not be accepted.
There can be other limitations as well.
Dogs may not be permitted into certain types of accommodations. Like cabins or villas.
Or they may not be allowed in public areas like camp kitchens or the swimming pool.
Dog Friendly Caravan Parks in NSW
Just like trying to find the perfect place to pick up along the Murray River or South West Rocks in peak season. Finding dog friendly caravan parks in NSW can sometimes be trickier than you think.
That’s not to say that you can’t find pet friendly holiday parks. There are plenty of them around. The great thing about holiday parks that accept pets is that they typically come with additional facilities such as leash areas, dog runs, and watering stations.
Whether you are traveling in a caravan or camper trailer. Or are looking for a tourist park with pet-friendly cabins, we’ve got you covered. Forget about leaving Fido in the boarding kennels and make the most of your family holiday in NSW this year.
Batemans Bay Beach Resort, Batemans Bay
Just a 20 minute drive from the tree-lined foreshores of Clyde River National Park, you’ll find Batemans Bay Beach Resort; an award-winning holiday park in the centre of Australia’s Oyster Coast.
Equally suited for romantic getaways and family holidays, Bateman’s Bay Resort is only minutes from sensational harbours, exceptional shopping and the stunning beaches that form Batemans Bay Snorkelling Trail.
Much like the surrounding area, the park itself offers something for everyone.
There’s a playground, giant jumping pillows and a seasonal Kids Club for the little ones.
Mini-Golf, go-karts, a swimming pool and tennis court for family fun. Plus bike hire and a games room.
There’s an accommodation option for every budget and requirement at Batemans Bay.
Dogs are very much allowed at this Holiday Park. When it comes to friendly caravan parks, everyone, whether they have two legs or four, will be able to enjoy this spectacular site.
From powered and unpowered camping sites, to ensuite sites, studio rooms on up to deluxe spa cabins, find your perfect spot at Batemans Bay Resort.
51 Beach Road, Batehaven NSW 2536
Toowoon Bay Holiday Park, Toowoon Bay
Get the best of both worlds when you stay at Toowoon Bay Holiday Park on Australia’s Central Coast.
At dog-friendly Toowoon Bay Holiday Park, you’ll enjoy the serenity of direct access to the sparkling blue waters of North Shelly Beach.
At the same time, you’re just steps away from the metropolitan comforts of The Entrance; plenty of:
- Shops;
- Cafes;
- Restaurants;
- Cinema.
Feed squadrons of giant pelicans at one popular tourist spot. Or relax with a round of golf at the Shelly Beach Golf Club next door.
Toowoon Bay Holiday Park features large, clean amenities like a camp kitchen and grassed areas.
There’s a resort-style pool onsite, playgrounds and even an amphitheatre.
Toowoon Bay Holiday Park offers powered and unpowered sites. As well as a variety of cabin layouts, from cosy one bedroom units to spacious, self-contained cabins that can accommodate up to six people.
Koongara Street, Toowoon Bay NSW 2261
Arrawarra Beach Holiday Park, Arrawarra Beach
Just north of Coffs Harbour, there’s a wide golden beach off the Solitary Islands Marine Park.
It’s a spot beloved by swimmers and surfers alike. Where fishermen try their luck and children explore rock pools for ancient treasure.
Uninterrupted ocean views. Rich wildlife. Extraordinary birds.
It’s all there waiting for you at the Arrawarra Beach Holiday Park. A true hidden gem on the North Coast of NSW.
The park offers many practical amenities like covered BBQs, camp kitchen, laundromat and telephones. But it also features more lively conveniences like surfing lessons.
Friendly staff members at the Tour Desk will even arrange for custom adventure packages. Anything from diving to whitewater rafting, 4WDing, fishing, biking, horseback riding or whale watching.
There’s plenty waiting for you to do in nearby Coffs Harbour too.
Experience botanical gardens, local markets, go snorkelling or kayaking, skydive, visit Bruxner Park Lookout and enjoy fresh seafood from the local harbour at any number of restaurants.
Campsites, caravan sites, cabins and villas at Arrawarra Beach Holiday Park place you comfortably in the middle of endless opportunities for leisure.
46 Arrawarra Beach Road, Arrawarra Beach NSW 2456
Koala Shores Port Stephens Holiday Park, Lemon Tree Passage
Set in natural bushland and surrounded by azure waves of the azure waves of Port Stephens, Koala Shores Port Stephens Holiday Park is quiet, relaxing and boasts breathtaking scenery.
Complete with its own koala habitat, Koala Shores is also a bird watchers paradise.
Perfectly positioned on the waterfront, the park is ideal for wildlife viewing, canoeing or paddle boating.
You’ll find a massive swimming pool, perfect for lounging about, set amongst lush tropical gardens. It even has it’s own waterfall!
Take a cruise on the waterway. Go koala spotting. Or wander into nearby Port Stephens to mingle with locals and explore the city’s variety of markets.
Koala Shores Port Stephens Holiday park offers waterfront, powered and ensuite camp sites. But they also feature an impressive variety of available cabins, lodges and villas.
From budget waterview cabins to deluxe bushland spa suites with balconies, courtyards, verandas and private BBQs, luxury lives at Koala Shores.
2 Oyster Farm Road, Lemon Tree Passage
Nambucca Beach Holiday Park, Nambucca Heads
A popular holiday destination, the city of Nambucca Heads is the midway point between Brisbane and Sydney.
Only 45 minutes south of Coffs Harbour, 90 minutes north of Port Macquarie and three-and-a-half hours from Tamworth, Nambucca Heads’ location makes it the perfect holiday hub.
Surrounded by bush and beach, and with only a single road accessing the park, stays at Nambucca Beach Holiday Park awaken the pleasant sensation of being miles from civilization. When in fact you’re only a short 2km from the towne centre.
There are multiple swimming pools. Including a children’s wading pool. And two new super water slides.
You’re a quick 5 minute drive from the Nambucca River. Where the fishing is famous. And only a short distance from both the Yarriabini and Gaagal Wanggaan National Parks.
In addition to your typical campsites and cabins, Nambucca Beach Holiday Park also offers accommodation in the form of beach huts, elevated surf shacks and bathing boxes; small one room cabins without a kitchen or bathroom.
Swimming Creek Road, Nambucca Heights NSW 2448
6 Tips for Travelling with Pets to Dog Friendly Caravan Parks, NSW
Now that we’ve covered five of the best caravan parks where pets are allowed, let’s quickly cover some tips for traveling with them.
Don’t let your pet run wild
While many holiday and caravan parks let pets stay, this doesn’t mean that they can run wild. Some are more relaxed, while others have a strict on-leash policy. Remember, just because a park is pet-friendly doesn’t mean that everyone staying there feels comfortable with a four-legged barrel charging towards them.
Don’t leave them unattended
Don’t leave them unattended. If you are staying in a pet friendly holiday cabin, the last thing you want is to come back after a night out to find your dog has shredded the furniture. Stress and anxiety levels of being left in unfamiliar surroundings can also cause your dog to make excessive noise. when traveling with pets, every aspect of your holiday needs to be dog friendly.
Otherwise, what is the point in taking them?
Be well Prepared
You’ve packed all of your holiday belongings. Now it’s time to prepare your dogs. Think along the lines of portable water bowls, grooming tools, shampoo and an old towel. Covers for caravan furniture. Toys and treats. Ground stake for the leash, food, and tick treatments. And don’t forget those all-important poop bags!
Make sure your pet is secured in the vehicle
When traveling long distances, aim to stop at least once an hour to let your dog relieve themselves. Also, make sure you give them regular drinks of water and make sure they are safely secured inside the vehicle.
Never leave your dog inside the car
If you need to stop, never leave your dog inside the car. A parked vehicle in full sun can reach temperatures exceeding 200°f in as little as 20 minutes. You wouldn’t put a baby in an oven! Leaving your dog in a car is just as dangerous.
Be aware about the rules and guidelines
Call the Holiday Park or pet-friendly campsite a week or so before your stay to check any guidelines or rules you should be aware of. The best holidays are a problem free holiday, so start as you mean to go on.
Now you know exactly which holiday parks in NSW are pet friendly. And how to safely travel with your dog. Get ready to enjoy an amazing holiday with the whole family, dog included.