Camping With Dogs—The Best Places to Visit in Victoria

There’s nothing quite like camping in the great outdoors, especially when your four-legged friend can join the adventure. Victoria offers a wealth of breathtaking camping destinations that are perfect for creating lifelong memories with your dog. Whether it’s waking up to the sound of waves crashing on the coast, exploring serene mountain trails, or relaxing in lush forests, camping with your dog allows you to experience the best of nature together.

Top Dog-Friendly Camping Spots in Victoria

Coastal Adventures

• Great Otway National Park: Johanna Beach Campground offers dog-friendly camping between coastal dunes and grassy hinterland. Enjoy surf beaches, scenic trails and whale-watching opportunities from July to September. Dogs must remain leashed.

• Mornington Peninsula: Visit dog-friendly campgrounds such as those near the stunning beaches. Activities include beach walks and enjoying coastal views.

Forest Escapes

• BIG4 Ballarat Windmill Holiday Park: Close to historical Ballarat and offering access to dog-friendly walking trails. Perfect for a mix of nature and history. Details available on their official site.

• Lake Eildon National Park: Explore dog-friendly zones around the lake, ideal for water activities such as kayaking and boating with your best friend. 

Mountain Retreats

• Mount Macedon Regional Park: Offers dog-friendly campgrounds and picturesque walking tracks. Enjoy crisp mountain air and serene trails. Visit the park's site here.

• Grampians National Park: While most areas of the park restrict dogs, nearby accommodations and specific trails may welcome them. 

Riverside Retreats

• Murray River: Riverside camping along the Murray provides stunning views and opportunities for river walks with your dog. Specific areas allow dogs; details can be found here.

• Warburton: Explore dog-friendly accommodations and tranquil river trails in this scenic town. Ideal for relaxed riverside adventures. Make sure to check individual park guidelines and book ahead for a seamless camping experience with your dog!

Responsible Camping with Dogs

Camping with your dog is a delightful way to bond and explore the outdoors, but it’s essential to prioritise responsible practices to protect the environment and ensure a positive experience for everyone.

Clean Up After Your Pet

• Always pick up and properly dispose of your dog’s waste to maintain the cleanliness of campsites and natural areas.

• Use biodegradable waste bags when possible to minimise environmental impact.

• Be mindful of wildlife and prevent your dog from disturbing or chasing animals. Keeping campsites clean helps protect native species and reduces the risk of encounters with unwanted pests such as flies or rodents.

Keep Your Dog on a Leash

• Public parks and protected areas often require dogs to be leashed to prevent harm to wildlife, protect other visitors and comply with local regulations.

• Using a sturdy leash ensures you can control your dog and avoid dangerous encounters, especially in areas where hazards such as snakes are present.

• A leash also helps prevent your dog from wandering off and potentially getting lost in unfamiliar surroundings.

Vaccinations and Flea/Tick Prevention

• Ensure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date, especially if traveling to areas where diseases such as parvovirus or leptospirosis are prevalent.

• Apply flea and tick preventatives before your trip to protect your pet from parasites common in bush or grassy areas.

• Regularly check your dog for ticks during and after your trip, especially around the ears, under the collar and between the toes.

• Research the area you are staying in and familiarise yourself on where the local vet clinics are for potential emergency situations.

These destinations provide the perfect opportunity to explore the region’s diverse landscapes while sharing memorable adventures with your four-legged friend. As you venture out, remember to camp responsibly—clean up after your pet, respect wildlife and adhere to local regulations. With a little preparation and mindfulness, you and your dog can enjoy an unforgettable journey through Victoria’s stunning outdoors. Pack your gear, leash your dog, and start exploring the natural wonders that await!