Cowra is a small town in the Central West region of NSW, just over an hour south of Orange and about four hours drive directly from Sydney. The town is home to some surprising attractions, many that are dog-friendly. Find out what to do and where to stay when visiting Cowra with a dog.
Dog-Friendly Sightseeing in Cowra
Take your pick from these dog-friendly attractions in and around Cowra…
#1 Stroll Around a Japanese Garden
One of the highlights of a visit to Cowra, whether or not you have a dog, is visiting the Cowra Japanese Garden.
The largest Japanese gardens in the southern hemisphere, they were built to symbolise the friendship that developed between the town and Japan, after a Prisoner of War Camp in the town during WWII was used to house Japanese prisoners.
The gardens contain a lake, water cascade and tea house pavilion. They’re at their most beautiful during the cherry blossom season (in late September and early October) and when the many deciduous trees turn red, orange and yellow during the Autumn. But it was still beautiful on the sunny winters day when we visited.
Dogs are welcome in the garden, as well as in the adjacent cafe. Note that dogs enter the gardens through the gift shop, the same as everyone else. An entry fee applies, except for dogs.
#2 Explore the History of the Cowra Breakout
Tragically, the Japanese POW camp in Cowra was the site of a massive breakout, when more then 1000 Japanese prisoners tried to escape on the 5th August 1944, in order to overcome the disgrace of capture. The breakout caused the death of 234 prisoners along with 5 Australian soldiers.
As well as walking through the Cowra Japanese Garden and reflecting on this tragic episode, it’s also possible to visit a number of key sites. On the outskirts of town is the Cowra POW Campsite, with the ruins of the buildings along with memorials and information panels. There is also a Japanese War Cemetery adjacent to the main cemetery.
Dogs are welcome to join you at both sites, although treat both with the respect they deserve, and always clean up after your dog.
#3 Fish or Camp at Wyangala Dam
Not far from Cowra is Wyangala Dam, one of the largest dams in NSW. It’s a popular spot for fishing and boating, or else just enjoy a weekend camping by the waters. It’s about a 30 minute drive from Cowra to the Wyangala Dam Wall.
Close to the Dam Wall is Reflections Wyangala Waters Holiday Park. The caravan park is dog-friendly year round on all sites, with two dogs permitted, although there are no dog-friendly cabins. Dogs are allowed to swim at the dam. Day passes are also available.
Dog-Friendly Parks in Cowra
Cowra Council provides two off-leash areas for dogs within the town.
Firstly, there is a fenced off-leash dog park at Bill Robinson Park (search for “Cowra Abedo Park” on Google Maps), located on the western side of the Lachlan River, on the northern side of the highway. The fenced off-leash area is shady and has plenty of parking, along with a variety of agility equipment, seating and a water tap and bowl.
There is also a second off-leash area in Cowra, at the Cowra Peace Precinct along Sakura Avenue. I believe this includes the POW Campsite – check the signage at the site.
Dog-Friendly Accommodation in Cowra
During our visit to Cowra, we stayed at the Cowra Van Park, which is centrally located on the eastern bank of the Lachlan River. This excellent small park is pet-friendly, although only on sites.
Another pet-friendly option is the Cowra Holiday Park, a five minute drive east of town. As well as sites, pets are also allowed in selected cabins.
Alternatively, check out the Cowra Showground, or if you have a self-contained van, you can stay overnight at the Cowra Edgell Park Rest Stop, across the road from the visitors centre.
There are multiple motels located in Cowra, of which at least one welcomes pets with advance notice, the Vineyard Motel. Located a five minute drive south of town away from the highway, some of the six rooms at the motel allow pets.
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About the Author
Shandos Cleaver is the founder of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel. She has travelled extensively with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, including to 33 countries across Europe, every state and territory of Australia except Tasmania, and 10 of the United States. She’s passionate about providing inspiration and information to others wanting to travel with their dogs, whether close to home or internationally.