The South East’s Best Pet-Friendly Spots

It’s no secret Queenslanders love a caravanning holiday. Just ask Caravanning Queensland. According to their latest data, there are more than 230,000 registered RVs in our state alone. As the industry gets bigger, operators are finding ways to make this lifestyle even better. For example, these days you don’t need to leave your four-legged family members at home. We see people traveling with their dogs every day on the show. So, we thought we’d come up with a bit of a guide to the best dog-friendly spots in the south east.

Esk

The only thing better than a pet friendly caravan park, is an entire pet-friendly town. Our whole team, four-legged friends included, felt very welcome in this little town. Cafes, pubs and even some retail shops, allow pooches.

If you’re looking to stretch your legs after making the hour and a half drive, head along to the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail. Out There Cycling drop off their bikes to areas all along the trail. This is the perfect option if you don’t own a bike, or if you’re worried about your van being over-weight.

Stay the night at Esk Caravan Park. There is a dog wash, pet-friendly cabins and sites, including ones with a fenced area, so you can let your pup off-lead. The team here are especially friendly to humans and animals alike.

Sunshine Coast

Leaving the country and heading to the coast, you’ll find another spot to bring you pup. The Sunshine Coast has pet-friendly parks galore. One of our favourites is BIG4 Maroochy River. It’s close to the water, and an off-lead dog park.

As far as activities go, the coast never fails to impress. Head out for some crabbing thanks to Swan Boat Hire. If you prefer to enjoy the water from the shore, the whole family will enjoy a stroll at the Coolum Coastal Boardwalk. No matter what you choose, you’re sure to work up an appetite, so why not give The Velo Project a go? Loving dogs is a pre-requisite to getting a job here, so you know you’ll feel right at home. Your dog can enjoy special doggy ice cream, while you can pick one of the many delicious items off the human menu.

 

Brisbane

Staying somewhere close can be a good idea if it’s your first time travelling with your pet. That way, if something doesn’t go to plan, you’re not too far from home. However, that doesn’t mean you need to skip any of the fun activities. You can keep your pooch entertained at Walkabout Working Dogs, where trainer Adam will help you and your pooch learn to herd sheep. No prior experience is needed. He provides the sheep and expertise; you just need your dog and a good attitude.

 

Scenic Rim

Juburra Country Camping is one of the most scenic Hipcamps you’ll come across in this region. There are several sites for you and your animals to stay at. All of them are nicely spread out, so you’ll feel like you have your own piece of paradise.

 

Gold Coast

When we were planning a pet friendly road trip, we couldn’t go past the Gold Coast. For a quiet place to stay with your whole family, check out Kirra Beach Tourist Park.  It’s got dog friendly sites and cabins, with plenty of nearby activities to keep the kids entertained.

 

Heading north, you’ll find one of our favourite things to do on the Gold Coast. Hire a boat at Duffy Down Under. You can drive one of their vessels without a licence, or if you’d prefer, you can hire the boat with a skipper.

 

If you’re planning a trip with your pet, make sure you visit the Caravanning Queensland website. They have a huge selection of parks and operators that love your pooch just as much as you do. Plus, you’ll find heaps of tips and tricks to help you get on the road.

 

 

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