Where to take your dog this spring: 15 dog-friendly places across Australia

Spring is here, and that means longer days, warmer weather and more opportunities to explore the great outdoors with your four-legged best friend!

Whether your dog loves running along sandy beaches, sniffing their way through bushland or curling up beside the tent after a day of adventures, Australia has plenty of destinations worth discovering.

From coastal camping grounds to peaceful forest walks and scenic picnic spots, there’s something for every type of dog and their human.

We’ve rounded up 15 dog-friendly places across every Australian state and territory to help you plan your next spring adventure. You’ll find options for day trips, weekend camping escapes and outdoor experiences where your dog can join in the fun.

Before setting off, remember that dog access can vary between individual beaches, campsites, walking trails and conservation areas. Always check the latest local restrictions, particularly during wildlife breeding seasons.

New South Wales: Forest escapes and camping adventures

1. Bago State Forest – Snowy Valleys, NSW

Best for: Forest walks, camping and outdoor adventures

If your dog enjoys discovering new scents and exploring wide-open spaces, Bago State Forest in the Snowy Valleys is a great place to start.

This scenic forest offers picnic spots, walking opportunities and camping areas, including the Blowering Dam foreshore and Paddy’s River Dam area. It’s a lovely way to swap busy streets for fresh forest air and a slower pace.

Dogs are welcome in NSW State forests provided they remain under control. Camping opportunities are generally free, although closures and fire restrictions should be checked before travelling.

Spring tip: Pack a comfortable dog bed, plenty of drinking water and a warm layer for cooler mountain evenings.

2. Chichester State Forest – Hunter Region, NSW

Best for: Riverside camping, picnics and bushland

For dogs that love a weekend away with their family, Chichester State Forest offers an inviting mix of shady forest surroundings and riverside recreation.

Located in the Barrington Tops region, the forest has several camping and picnic areas, including the Allyn River Forest Rest Area. Spend your days enjoying the peaceful surroundings before settling in for a relaxing evening under the stars.

Dogs are permitted in NSW State forests when kept under control. Check which camping areas are open before leaving home, as access can change following severe weather or maintenance.

Spring tip: Check your dog for ticks after exploring forested areas, particularly around their ears, neck and paws.

NSW camping and pet rules: Forestry Corporation NSW.

Victoria: Coastal campsites and scenic getaways

3. Banksia Bluff Campground – Cape Conran, VIC

Best for: Beachside camping and coastal exploration

Dreaming of waking up to the sound of waves with your dog by your side?

Banksia Bluff Campground in Cape Conran Coastal Park is surrounded by coastal woodland, beautiful beaches and spectacular scenery. It’s a wonderful choice for families looking to spend a few days away from the city.

The campground features toilets, outdoor beach showers and access to nearby coastal attractions.

Dogs are welcome at designated dog-friendly campsites but must remain on a lead. Book a suitable site in advance and check dog access to surrounding beach areas.

Spring tip: Bring a towel for sandy paws and keep your dog’s drinking water topped up after coastal walks.

4. Johanna Beach Campground – Great Ocean Road, VIC

Best for: Coastal camping, scenic views and peaceful escapes

If you love dramatic coastlines and beautiful ocean views, Johanna Beach Campground deserves a place on your travel list.

Tucked between coastal dunes and green countryside along the Great Ocean Road, this campground offers a scenic setting for an outdoor getaway with your dog.

Dogs are allowed on-lead in the designated campground, making it a lovely base for relaxing beside your tent or campervan. However, dog access rules in surrounding areas of Great Otway National Park are different, so check boundaries before walking.

Spring tip: Keep dogs away from steep coastal edges, strong surf and sensitive dune habitats.

Victoria camping information: Parks Victoria.

Queensland: Beach camping and tranquil forest retreats

5. Inskip Peninsula Recreation Area – Rainbow Beach, QLD

Best for: Beach camping, fishing and coastal adventures

If your idea of the perfect spring getaway includes sandy beaches, ocean breezes and sleeping beneath the stars, Inskip Peninsula might be just what you’re looking for.

Located near Rainbow Beach, this beautiful coastal destination offers several camping areas surrounded by beaches, coastal vegetation and spectacular water views.

Dogs are welcome in the recreation area’s camping areas and on permitted beaches, provided they’re kept on a lead and under control.

Camping permits are required, and some areas are accessible only by four-wheel drive. Be sure to check current conditions, as erosion and maintenance can affect camping access.

Spring tip: Bring plenty of shade and fresh drinking water. Avoid walking your dog on hot sand during the middle of the day.

6. Amamoor Creek Camping Area – Gympie Region, QLD

Best for: Creekside camping and relaxed weekends

For a change of scenery, head inland to Amamoor Creek Camping Area, where tall gum trees and peaceful forest surroundings create a relaxing escape from everyday life.

The spacious campground welcomes dogs and offers opportunities to unwind, enjoy the scenery and spend quality time outdoors.

With grassy camping areas and basic facilities, it’s a lovely choice for families looking to introduce their dogs to camping.

Dogs must remain on a lead at all times, and bookings are required. Pet access does not extend to every area of Amamoor State Forest.

Spring tip: Keep your dog away from stagnant water and check for ticks after walks through grassy or wooded areas.

Queensland access information: Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.

South Australia: Bushwalking and peaceful camping

7. Para Wirra Conservation Park – Adelaide Hills, SA

Best for: Dog-friendly camping, picnics and bushwalks

Looking for a convenient camping destination without travelling too far from Adelaide?

Para Wirra Conservation Park offers beautiful bushland, walking trails and picnic areas, making it an excellent spring escape for families and their dogs.

The park’s Wirra Campground provides facilities including toilets, a basic camp kitchen and designated campsites.

Dogs are welcome both in the park and at Wirra Campground, provided they’re kept on a lead no longer than two metres and remain on designated trails.

Spring tip: Plan your walks during cooler parts of the day and keep an eye out for snakes as the weather warms.

8. Anstey Hill Recreation Park – Adelaide, SA

Best for: Spring wildflowers, scenic walks and day trips

If your dog is more interested in a morning walk than sleeping in a tent, Anstey Hill Recreation Park is a fantastic alternative.

Located in Adelaide’s north-eastern suburbs, this park offers walking trails, natural bushland and beautiful seasonal scenery.

Spring brings wildflowers and colourful vegetation, giving you plenty to admire while your dog enjoys a good sniff along the trails.

Dogs are welcome on a lead no longer than two metres and must remain on designated walking paths.

Spring tip: Choose a trail that suits your dog’s fitness level and bring enough water for both of you.

South Australian visitor information: Para Wirra Conservation Park and Anstey Hill Recreation Park.

Western Australia: Riverside retreats and forest camping

9. Baden Powell Campground – Lane Poole Reserve, WA

Best for: Forest camping and riverside relaxation

Surrounded by magnificent jarrah forest near Dwellingup, Baden Powell Campground offers a peaceful environment to unwind with your dog.

Located within Lane Poole Reserve, the campground provides access to forest scenery and walking opportunities near the Murray River.

With picnic facilities and designated camping sites, it’s a great place to spend a weekend reconnecting with nature.

Dogs are allowed at Baden Powell Campground but must remain on a lead.

Important: The reserve has ongoing 1080 poison baiting, which can be fatal to dogs. The managing authority warns pet owners about this hazard, so carefully assess the risk before deciding to bring your dog.

10. Nanga Townsite Campground – Dwellingup, WA

Best for: Relaxed camping, forest scenery and outdoor exploration

Another lovely option within Lane Poole Reserve is Nanga Townsite Campground.

Once home to a timber mill settlement, the area is now a peaceful campsite surrounded by trees, providing a relaxing setting for an outdoor escape.

Enjoy a quiet morning, take in the forest surroundings or spend an afternoon unwinding with your family.

Dogs are welcome on-lead at the campground. Camping fees apply, and sites are not bookable in advance.

The same 1080 baiting risks apply throughout the reserve, so take official safety warnings seriously.

Spring tip: Before visiting any forest or rural camping area, check for poison baiting notifications, fire restrictions and weather alerts.

WA camping information: Explore Parks WA.

Tasmania: Coastal camping and beautiful beaches

11. Bay of Fires Conservation Area – Tasmania

Best for: Beachside camping and coastal scenery

Tasmania’s Bay of Fires is famous for its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and striking orange-coloured granite boulders.

It’s also home to several camping areas where dogs can join their families for a coastal escape.

Imagine enjoying your morning coffee by the campsite, followed by a gentle stroll through a permitted dog-friendly section of the coastline.

Dogs are allowed at most designated campsites within the Bay of Fires Conservation Area, with the exception of Jeanneret Beach campground. Dogs must remain on-lead in campgrounds, and beach access restrictions vary by location.

Spring tip: Check local shorebird protection rules before walking your dog near nesting areas.

12. Mayfield Bay Conservation Area – East Coast, TAS

Best for: Relaxed camping, coastal views and quiet getaways

For something a little more peaceful, consider Mayfield Bay Conservation Area on Tasmania’s beautiful east coast.

This coastal camping destination offers the chance to enjoy ocean views, fresh air and a slower-paced getaway with your furry companion.

It’s a lovely choice for dog owners who prefer relaxing by the campsite, exploring nearby permitted areas and enjoying the outdoors without a packed itinerary.

Dogs are permitted in designated camping areas but must be on a lead. Restrictions may apply to surrounding beaches and reserve areas, so check local signage.

Spring tip: Tasmania’s spring weather can change quickly. Pack a waterproof coat or warm blanket for your dog.

Tasmanian camping and dog access: Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service.

Northern Territory: Tropical walks and outdoor adventures

13. Casuarina Coastal Reserve – Darwin, NT

Best for: Coastal walks and outdoor exercise

For dogs living in or visiting Darwin, Casuarina Coastal Reserve provides a wonderful place to enjoy the fresh air.

Stretching along Darwin’s coastline, this reserve features sandy beaches, walking paths and wide-open coastal views.

It’s perfect for a morning stroll, allowing your dog to take in new smells while you enjoy the scenery.

There are both on-lead and off-leash areas, so follow the signs and keep your dog under effective control.

Spring tip: The Northern Territory can experience very hot and humid conditions during spring. Walk early, carry fresh water and avoid letting dogs enter coastal waters because of crocodile and marine stinger risks.

14. George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens – Darwin, NT

Best for: Shady garden walks and relaxed afternoons

Not every spring outing needs to be a big adventure. Sometimes, a relaxing walk surrounded by greenery is exactly what your dog needs.

The George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens offer beautiful tropical surroundings, leafy walking paths and opportunities to explore somewhere different.

With an extensive collection of tropical plants and plenty of interesting scents, it’s an enjoyable option for dogs who prefer a gentler outing.

Dogs are welcome in permitted areas, with lead requirements indicated by signs.

Spring tip: Even shaded gardens can become hot and humid. Bring water and give your dog regular breaks.

Northern Territory dog access information: NT Parks and Wildlife.

Australian Capital Territory: Riverside adventures

15. Uriarra Crossing Recreation Area – Canberra, ACT

Best for: Riverside walks, picnics and outdoor play

Located along the Murrumbidgee River, Uriarra Crossing Recreation Area is a wonderful destination for a spring day out with your dog.

With scenic river views, picnic facilities and outdoor recreation areas, it’s ideal for families who enjoy spending time together outside.

Dogs are welcome off-leash unless signs indicate otherwise, but they must remain under effective control. They are also prohibited within 10 metres of fireplaces or barbecues that are in use.

Pack a picnic, bring your dog’s favourite toy and enjoy a peaceful afternoon beside the river.

Spring tip: Keep your dog away from fast-flowing water, supervise them near riverbanks and be mindful of local wildlife.

ACT visitor information: Parks ACT – Uriarra Crossing.

Before you head off: Tips for a safe spring adventure with your dog

Exploring somewhere new is exciting, but a little preparation can make your trip much more enjoyable for everyone.

Whether you’re planning a short afternoon walk or a weekend camping trip, keep these essentials in mind.

Pack the doggy essentials

Before leaving home, remember to bring:

• Fresh drinking water and a portable bowl.

• A sturdy lead, collar and identification tag.

• Enough food and treats for the entire trip.

• Dog waste bags.

• Bedding, towels and a comfortable resting spot.

• A pet first-aid kit and any regular medications.

• Tick prevention appropriate for your destination, as advised by your vet.

Check local pet restrictions

Not every park, beach or camping ground welcomes dogs, and some destinations only allow pets in specific sections.

Many Australian national parks prohibit dogs to help protect native wildlife. Always check the relevant park authority’s website before visiting, even if a nearby campground is advertised as dog-friendly.

Watch out for spring hazards

Spring is a beautiful time to get outdoors, but warmer temperatures can also introduce hazards for curious dogs.

Snakes become more active as temperatures rise, ticks are a concern in some regions, and grass seeds can become lodged in paws, ears and skin.

After your adventure, give your dog a quick check for ticks, burrs, grass seeds, cuts and anything unusual.

If your dog experiences symptoms such as sudden swelling, breathing difficulties, vomiting, collapse or unusual behaviour, seek veterinary attention promptly.

Plan ahead for unexpected vet visits

No one plans for their dog to become injured or unwell on holiday, but accidents can happen anywhere.

From an unexpected injury on a bushwalk to a sudden illness while camping, knowing where the nearest veterinary clinic is can make a big difference.

Save the contact details of a nearby vet or emergency animal hospital before leaving, particularly if you’re travelling to a remote destination.

Make more memories together this spring

From sandy beaches and peaceful forest retreats to scenic walking trails and riverside picnics, Australia has so many wonderful places to explore with your dog.

Whether you’re travelling across the country or discovering somewhere close to home, spring is the perfect excuse to get outside, enjoy the sunshine and create new memories together.

And while adventures are more enjoyable when you’re prepared, unexpected accidents and illnesses can happen along the way.

With Petcover Australia, you can explore with greater peace of mind knowing you have insurance protection for eligible veterinary expenses if something unexpected happens.

Ready for your next adventure? Explore Petcover’s Dog Insurance options and help protect your best mate.