One of the most pet-friendly accommodation options in Australia are caravan parks, with the majority of caravan parks allowing pet dogs to stay. Caravan parks also tend to have lots of facilities, such as swimming pools and playgrounds, which are terrific if you’re holidaying with kids.
However, most caravan parks in Australia with cabins don’t allow dogs in their cabins, even if they allow dogs on their sites. This makes things difficult if you don’t have your own caravan or campervan, not even a tent.
If you’re looking to stay in a cabin with your dog in NSW, I’ve put together this list of some of the great pet-friendly cabins in NSW. Most are located in caravan parks, while a few are cabin-only parks. While not comprehensive, hopefully this gives you some ideas of where to head with your pup on your next holiday!
Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive commission if you make a purchase using the links. See my full disclaimer.
Pet-Friendly Cabins Near Sydney
Not many caravan parks close to Sydney allow pets, so not surprisingly there aren’t many pet-friendly cabins close to Sydney. Check out these options that are available within a two hour drive of Sydney.
Keep in mind, there’s also plenty of pet-friendly hotels in Sydney and dog-friendly holiday homes near Sydney.
#1 Werri Beach Holiday Park, Gerringong
It’s only a two-hour drive south of Sydney to Gerringong, just south of Kiama. A wonderful dog-friendly caravan park is the Werri Beach Holiday Park. As well as allowing pets on sites, the caravan park also have three pet-friendly two-bedroom cabins.
Direct bookings are required when booking a cabin along with a dog. Note that dogs are only permitted to stay at the park outside of the peak NSW school and public holiday periods.
One of the best things about staying at Werri Beach Holiday Park with your dog is that you’re located directly opposite Werri Beach, which has an off-leash section. There’s also an off-leash headland park and the dog-friendly Kiama Coast Walk nearby.
#2 Surf Beach Holiday Park, Kiama
Recently, a second of the Kiama Coast Holiday Parks operated by Kiama Council has started to allow pets to stay in some of their cabins. At Surf Beach Holiday Park, selected 2-Bedroom Cabanas are pet-friendly, for an additional surcharge of $25 per night.
The park is just a short stroll from the centre of Kiama and the famous Blowhole. Note however that the nearby beach doesn’t permit dogs on the sand, although there is an off-leash dog exercise area at nearby Kaleula Reserve.
It’s a must to book directly, either by calling or emailing the park. Like the Werri Beach Holiday Park, pets are only permitted outside of the high season.
Find out more about what to do with a dog in Kiama and Gerringong
#3 Blacksmiths Beachside Holiday Park
If you’d prefer to head north of Sydney, a great dog-friendly caravan park in between the Central Coast and Newcastle is Blacksmiths Beachside Holiday Park. I’ve camped before at the park in a campervan, but there are also two dog-friendly cabins.
Both of the pet-friendly cabins have a doggy door to an enclosed verandah, plus a dog bed and water bowl are provided. It’s best to call in advance before booking to check the rules, as some breeds are prohibited. However, there are no peak period restrictions.
The park is just a short walk from the patrolled Blacksmiths Beach, and a short drive (or long walk) from the off-leash dog beach at the northern edge of the town. There’s a dog wash available on site.
#4 Ingenia Holidays Hunter Valley, Pokolbin
Pokolbin is just a smidgen over two hours from the centre of Sydney, depending on the traffic, but still close enough for a quick weekend getaway with your dog. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly cabin in the Hunter Valley, head to Ingenia Holidays Hunter Valley.
Selected standard and budget cabins at the park have been designated as pet-friendly. Call or email directly to find out about availability, including the latest pet fee. Only one pet is permitted per cabin and blackout dates may apply.
Find out more about visiting the Hunter Valley with a dog
Pet-Friendly Cabins on the NSW North Coast
Check out these pet-friendly cabins that are located in caravan parks along the NSW North Coast, heading north from Port Stephens to the Queensland border. They’re perfect for a road trip along the NSW coast or a relaxing vacation by the beach, ideally one of the dog-friendly beaches in NSW.
#1 BIG4 Bays Holiday Park, Anna Bay
There’s not many pet-friendly cabins around Port Stephens, but one delightfully pet-friendly caravan park in the region is the BIG4 Bays Holiday Park at Anna Bay, although pets are unfortunately no longer permitted during peak periods including NSW school holidays and long weekends.
In addition to being allowed on powered and unpowered sites, dogs are also allowed in selected cabins and caravans. Choose between two-bedroom, studio and Betty the Budget cabins, or else Daisy the Cute Caravan or Ruby the Retro Caravan. See the latest pet-friendly options on their site. Note that an extra cleaning fee of $50 applies per pet per stay, plus advance approval is required.
The park is just a short drive from the off-leash dog area at Birubi Beach, or alternatively head to Bagnalls Beach in Corlette, on the calm waters of Port Stephens. There’s also a free dog wash on site.
Check out my full guide to dog-friendly Port Stephens
#2 Lani’s Holiday Island, Forster
The twin towns of Forster-Tuncurry are a delightful destination to visit with your dog. There’s plenty of dog-friendly beaches and cafes, plus multiple pet-friendly cabins to stay in with your pup by your side.
One caravan park offering pet-friendly cabins is Lani’s Holiday Island, on the edge of the lake at Forster. Regularly recommended among dog owners, pets are allowed in selected cabins. Choose between the Pet-Friendly Lodges, Villas and Cabanas, each sleeping up to four or five human guests. Double check whether linen is provided.
Up to two pets are permitted per booking, with no seasonal restrictions – just get in early if you’d like a summer holiday away with your pup!
#3 Discovery Parks – Forster, Darawank
Another fabulous dog-friendly caravan park in Forster-Tuncurry is Discovery Parks – Forster, which is situated just north of town on the river in Darawank. Dogs are welcome to stay at the park year round, both on selected sites as well as in selected cabins.
The cabins where dogs are allowed are clearly listed on their website – just look for the “Dogs Okay” symbol. Even the Deluxe Riverfront cabins permit pets! Note that an additional fee does apply, and usually only one dog is permitted per booking, although double check with management if you have two pups.
The park also has plenty of additional facilities for dogs (although families will also love the newly opened resort-style pool and splash park). There’s a shady fenced dog park, a self-service dog wash and blow dry (for a fee) and every Sunday at 8am there is a Discovery Barks Walk.
#4 Diamond Waters Caravan Park
Heading further north, Diamond Waters Caravan Park is located 40 minutes south of Port Macquarie, on the Camden Haven River near Laurieton. It’s a gorgeous spot surrounded by bushland and welcomes dogs all year round, although no cats for the protection of the local wildlife.
There’s one pet-friendly self-contained cabin available at the park. Up to two dogs are permitted, with a small additional cleaning surcharge of $20 per stay. See their website for their full pet rules.
#5 Reflections Holiday Parks Moonee Beach
A very popular caravan park with pet owners is Reflections Holiday Parks Moonee Beach, just north of Coffs Harbour. Dogs are allowed year round at this caravan park, both on sites and in selected cabins.
Dog-friendly cabin options include 4-person premium cabins, 5-person superior cabins and 6-person budget cabins, as well as the brand new Tiny Houses, perfect for couples with a pup. The dog-friendly options are clearly listed.
The park is located next to the dog-friendly albeit on-leash Moonee Beach, with a convenient deluxe dog wash onsite. There’s also plenty to do around Coffs Harbour with a dog if staying for awhile.
#6 Woolgoolga Lakeside Holiday Park
Just up the road from Coffs Harbour and Moonee Beach is Woolgoolga, home to the Woolgoolga Lakeside Holiday Park. Pets are welcome at the park during most of the year, except the 20th December and 14th January, plus over the Easter long weekend.
As well as pet-friendly sites, pets are welcome to stay in three types of cabins: the Water View Villas (only those designated as pet-friendly), plus the older-style Banksia Cabins and Lake View Cabins. Each of the cabins can accomodate five humans.
Dogs are allowed on-leash on the adjacent beach – try to spot the remains of the Buster Shipwreck (see my Coffs Harbour guide), plus off-leash on Woolgoolga Back Beach outside of the Little Tern breeding season. Just as well, there’s a new dog wash!
#7 BIG Saltwater Yamba
Yamba is a quiet, laidback coastal town on the Far North Coast, but with all the amenities that you need, including a great dog-friendly caravan park. BIG4 Saltwater Yamba welcomes pets year round, on both powered and unpowered campsites and in an increasing number of cabins.
If staying with your pet, choose between the three Banksia cabins, four of the deluxe Figtree Cabins and three of the smaller Casuarina Studio Cabins. Both the Banksia and Casuarina cabins feature a fully enclosed deck, perfect for relaxed outdoor meals without needing to leash your dog. Plus there’s a fully fenced off-leash dog park and an K9000 dog wash.
There’s a limit of one dog per cabin, with most breeds and sizes accepted. A small additional charge of $12 per night applies for pets staying in cabins.
#8 Reflections Holiday Parks Lennox Head
Another one of the pet-friendly Reflections Holiday Parks along the NSW North Coast is Reflections Lennox Head. Like at Moonee Beach, dogs are permitted year round, on all sites, plus in selected cabins, including the 4-person economy and 6-person deluxe cabins.
There’s plenty to do with your dog at Lennox Head, with the park home to a excellent fenced dog park, which even has agility equipment. Plus Seven Mile Beach is off-leash north of the surf club, just a short walk away.
If staying with a pet, make a direct booking on the website or by phoning the reception. Up to two pets are permitted per booking.
#9 Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay, Suffolk Park
If you’d prefer to stay right in Byron Bay with your dog, one of the best pet-friendly caravan parks is the large Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay, located a few kilometeres south of Byron Bay proper in Suffolk Park.
As well as being allowed on camp sites, pets are also allowed in selected cabins. Choose between the studio cabins that sleep two, or the larger two-bedroom villas that are perfect for a family of four. The pet-friendly cabins are clearly listed on their website, although blackout dates may apply – phone up to double check the dates, plus enquire about pet fees.
One of the best perks about staying at Ingenia Holidays Byron Bay with your dog is that it’s just a short walk to the off-leash Tallow Beach, located behind the park, as long as the path through the wetlands behind the beach hasn’t been flooded. There’s also a fenced area for off-leash exercise at the rear of the park and a new dog wash in the visitors parking area.
#10 Reflections Holiday Parks Ferry Reserve
The Ferry Reserve Holiday Park is located just outside of Brunswick Heads in northern NSW, right on the banks of the Brunswick River. Pets are welcome in the park, not just on sites, but also in many of the park’s cabins and tiny houses.
Choose between the large deluxe and premium cabins, that can sleep between two or five. Or make a booking for the recently built Tiny Houses. They’re perfect for a couple with a pup, and include an enclosed verandah. Up to two pets are allowed per booking.
The park is situated just a short drive away from the off-leash beach in Brunswick Heads, plus there’s a handy dog wash in the park.
Pet-Friendly Cabins on the NSW South Coast
There’s plenty more pet-friendly cabins on the South Coast of NSW. Check out these great options heading south from Sydney.
#1 South Coast Retreat, Greenwell Point
Jervis Bay is a popular destination around 2 1/2 hours drive south of Sydney. One of the best dog-friendly accommodation options close to Jervis Bay is South Coast Retreat at Greenwell Point.
Rather than a caravan park, there are no camping sites here, just cabins ranging in size from studios to two-bedrooms, a three-bedroom house for rent, and African-style glamping tents. And best of all dogs are allowed in all accommodation options year-round, with no peak summer block-out dates!
My pick of the accomodation options are the stunning glamping tents. Gorgeously kitted out, they have their own stylish ensuite bathroom and a small kitchen, plus a deck with day beds and a BBQ.
Note that dogs are not allowed on the furniture or in the bedrooms, plus there’s a limit of two dogs per cabin or glamping tent.
#2 Jervis Bay Holiday Park, Woollamia
Just a little further south near Huskisson, Jervis Bay Holiday Park is one of the best pet-friendly caravan parks around Jervis Bay. As well as powered and unpowered sites that have no seasonal restrictions, the park also has three pet-friendly garden villas.
Each of the villas has two-bedrooms can sleep up to four humans, with either a queen or double bed plus a set of bunks. Up to two pets are permitted per villa, for an additional charge per night – check the latest fees. Direct bookings are essential.
The caravan park is located right on Currambene Creek, with swimming possible for both humans and dogs, depending on the tide. Its also within walking distance of two dog-friendly breweries.
Read more about visiting Jervis Bay with your dog
#3 Ingenia Parks Ulladulla
Ingenia Parks Ulladulla, formerly known as Kings Point Retreat, is located just south of Ulladulla, within walking distance of an on-leash dog beach. There’s also plenty to keep the whole family occupied at the park, with two swimming pools, a magnificent children’s playground and waterslides, a fire pit and more.
Pets are permitted in both the two-bedroom Deluxe Cottages, that can sleep up to five and have an enclosed verandah, plus in the Standard Cabins that sleep two. It’s best to contact the park directly to find out the full pet rules, including the latest cleaning fee, plus the applicable black-out dates. Generally only one pet is permitted per booking.
#4 NRMA Batemans Bay Holiday Resort, Batehaven
Heading further south, the pet-friendly NRMA Batemans Bay Holiday Resort permits pet dogs to stay year round, although the number of both pet-friendly sites and cabins are limited over the peak Christmas and Easter periods.
Selected two-bedroom cabins at the park are pet-friendly. Each sleeps up to five guests with two bedrooms – one with a queen bed, the other a double bed with an overhead bunk. There’s also a bathroom with a separate toilet, full kitchen and a spacious deck with a BBQ. Direct bookings are required year round.
The best thing about staying at this caravan park with a dog is that it’s located next to the off-leash Corrigans Beach, with direct access from the park. Although it’s not my favourite dog beach in Batemans Bay, it’s still a wonderful spot with calm waters.
#5 Barlings Beach Holiday Park, Tomakin
Another caravan park that’s located just south of Batemans Bay and also allow dogs year round is the Barlings Beach Holiday Park, located at Tomakin. The park is right next to the time-share Barlings Beach, with dogs allowed off-leash before 9am and after 5pm during the summer months, plus all day long during winter. There’s also an onsite off-leash dog exercise area.
Pets are permitted inside the the recently renovated two-bedroom Beach Comber Cabins, that can sleep up to four, and the larger Tomakin House, which can sleep up to six in three bedrooms. Only a single pet is permitted per cabin, with a pet fee of $50 per stay. Bookings for pets must be made by phone.
Read more about visiting dog-friendly Batemans Bay
#6 Surf Beach Holiday Park, Narooma
At the coastal town of Narooma, stay at the seaside Surf Beach Holiday Park. Pets are welcome to stay in selected two-bedroom pet-friendly cabins at the park. Each cabin sleeps up to five or six, depending on the configuration, plus there’s a full equipped kitchen and a bathroom. Pets are permitted inside, but not on the furniture or beds.
The park is pet-friendly outside of peak periods – the Christmas school holidays, plus the Easter, June and October long weekends. The adjacent beach allows dogs off-leash on its northern end all day long.
#7 Tathra Beachfront Holiday Park
One of the most pet-friendly caravan parks on the South Coast of NSW is Tathra Beachfront Holiday Park, previously Tathra Beachside. Small to medium dogs are welcome in designated pet-friendly cottages and villas at the park all year long.
There are four two-bedroom pet-friendly cottages, each sleeping up to five, plus two larger pet-friendly villas, that sleep up to six, including two pairs of bunks. The former feature a fenced yard and deck with kennel, while the latter now have enclosed verandahs – they truly are pet-friendly!
Note that while pets are of course allowed inside, they should be kept out of the bedrooms (otherwise a extra cleaning fee applies), plus pets need to be pre-approved.
When we stayed at the park, out dog was greet with a welcome treat. Pet supplies can also be purchased at the reception. The park is close to the off-leash section of Tathra Beach, which starts at the northern boundary of the park. There’s also a warm dog wash located in the laundry.
#8 Beach Cabins Merimbula, Short Point
Heading further south, if you’re looking for pet-friendly cabins on the Far South Coast, check out Beach Cabins Merimbula at Short Point. As the name suggests, the park consists entirely of cabins, including some pet-friendly cabins.
Pets are welcome in selected cabins most of the year, outside of the peak periods of the summer and Easter school holidays. The pet-friendly options range in size from one- to three-bedrooms. Direct bookings are essential, with an additional cleaning fee of $30 per pet per stay.
Other facilities include a swimming pool, BBQs and outdoor dining area. Plus the cabins are right next to the local off-leash exercise area and close to the off-leash stretch of Tura Beach.
Check out my tips for visiting Merimbula with a dog
Pet-Friendly Cabins in Inland NSW
If you’re planning on heading inland in NSW for a country holiday, check out these pet-friendly cabins dotted all around country NSW.
#1 NRMA Dubbo Holiday Park
If you’re visiting Dubbo with your dog, one of the most pet-friendly options is the NRMA Dubbo Holiday Park. In addition to their wide variety of pet-friendly sites, including fenced sites, there are also multiple pet-friendly cabins.
The pet-friendly cabins range in size from studio cabins sleeping either four or five guests, up to a two-bedroom deluxe cabin sleeping up to six. Each of the pet-friendly cabins even comes with a small fenced yard and a small kennel.
An additional fee applies – double check the latest amount, with direct bookings are essential. The park also has its own fenced off-leash dog park, plus recommendations can be made for local doggy daycare.
#2 Riverwood Downs, Barrington Tops
One of the favourite pet-friendly destinations in country NSW is Riverwood Downs. This resort is located on 750 acres in the Barrington Tops region, about 2 1/2 hours drive north of Sydney, and warmly welcomes pets.
As well as the Riverside and Parkland camp sites, dogs are allowed in a number of the accommodation options. Choose between the pet-friendly Cabins or Spa Cabins, the River Cottage, or selected Boutique motel-style rooms. And there’s no peak season restrictions.
In the evening, relax at the onsite Barrington Bar and Grill. Dogs are welcome at tables on the verandah and can choose from their own menu. There’s also plenty of room for dogs to explore, play and swim during the day, including selected off-leash areas.
#3 Turon Gates, Capertee
If heading west of Sydney past the Blue Mountains, consider staying at the Turon Gates Mountain Getaway. This huge country property is located near Capertee, about an hour south of Mudgee, and is perfect for an authentic bush getaway with your pet.
In addition to campsites, dogs are welcome to stay in any of the cottages or cabins. The only exception are the luxury glamping tents, with just one of the tents allowing pets. Each of the mountain cottages have a fully enclosed verandah, as well as some of the river cottages. Pets are permitted off-leash, although ideally keep them leashed if wildlife is around.
Note that the final access road is a dirt country road. However, it is generally suitable for two-wheel drive vehicles, with four-wheel drive only essential for campervans or if pulling a caravan.
#4 Pender Lea, Crackenback
While dog-friendly things to do are limited around the Snowy Mountains due to the extensive national park, there’s a wonderful dog-friendly place to stay just outside of the park boundaries.
Pender Lea is located at Crackenback, on the road from Jindabyne to Thredbo. House-trained pets are welcome to stay inside their wide variety of accomodation options, from the four-bedroom cottage, through to two- and three-bedroom chalets and the self-contained cabins that can sleep five.
Pets are not allowed to be left unattended. Instead, the owners request that you book one of their six deluxe pet enclosures for the day, that combine an insulated indoor area with an outdoor run.
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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.
Great website. We have recently had to sell our caravan but still wish to travel with our small dog. We shall checkout some of those parks you have listed. Hopefully more parks will follow suit.
Steve.
Luckily, there’s an increasing number of pet-friendly cabins. Enjoy your new way of travelling!