Travelling with Dogs Around Geelong, the Bellarine & Surf Coast – Dog Friendly Caravan Parks
March 23, 2026Travelling with your dog is one of life’s great pleasures – especially when you’re exploring the stunning coastal regions of Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast. Whether you’re planning an Easter break, weekend escape or a longer holiday, the good news is that our region offers plenty of dog‑friendly caravan parks, making it easy to bring your four‑legged family members along for the adventure.
Why Travel with Your Dog?
Holidaying with your pet not only strengthens the human–animal bond but also reduces stress for both you and your dog. Many caravan parks now understand the importance of inclusive travel and offer designated pet‑friendly cabins, powered sites and shared spaces. With a little preparation, such as ensuring vaccinations are up to date, packing your dog’s essentials, and planning dog‑safe rest stops, your trip can be safe, enjoyable and stress‑free.
Dog‑Friendly Caravan Parks in Our Region
Many Big4 Holiday Parks and their Partner Parks allow families to bring their dog on holiday with them, offering a choice of dog-friendly camping, caravan and self-contained holiday destinations across the country.
Pet friendly BIG4 Holiday Parks in coastal Victoria include:
- Bimbi Park – Cape Otway
- BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks – Warrnambool
Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon
A popular BIG4 holiday park located at the entrance to the twin towns of Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale on the Bellarine Peninsula which offers pet‑friendly accommodation in selected areas and sits within easy reach of beaches and local walking trails. Its extensive facilities include an indoor pool, cooking amenities and access to nearby gourmet experiences on the Bellarine Taste Trail.
A welcoming year-round getaway for families set on the picturesque Bellarine Peninsula and only 90 minutes from Melbourne. With easy access to surf beaches, the peaceful Barwon River and a range of local attractions, it’s an ideal base for discovering everything the Bellarine has to offer. Pet‑friendly options are available – be sure to contact the park beforehand.
Located between Victoria’s Surf Coast and the calm waters of Port Phillip Bay and offering waterfront access with a boat ramp and jetty, this park is perfect for keen fishers. While known for its annual holiday cabins, the park also has a limited number of peaceful camping sites, ideal for visitors who appreciate wildlife, tranquility and simple outdoor living. This park boasts pet friendly options with an off-leash dog area.
Geelong Surf Coast Highway Holiday Park
Located in Mount Duneed, this park offers a wide range of accommodation options, including pet‑friendly ensuite sites and cabins. With a pool, games room and BBQ areas, it is a convenient launching point for Geelong and Surf Coast adventures.
Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park
Right on the Surf Coast’s Great Ocean Road, this park is perfect for dogs who love the beach. With seasonal pet‑friendly camping and caravan sites, plus proximity to famed locations like Bells Beach and the Surf Coast Walk, it’s an excellent choice for active pets and owners.
Other pet friendly caravan parks managed by Great Ocean Road Parks include:
- Anglesea Family Caravan Park – seasonally pet friendly
- Wye River Beach Front Campground – seasonally pet friendly
- Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park – seasonally pet friendly
- Apollo Bay Recreation Reserve – pet friendly year round
- Marengo Family Caravan Park – pet friendly year round
- Skenes Creek Foreshore Caravan Park – pet friendly year round
- Port Campbell Recreation Reserve – pet friendly year round
- Princetown Recreation Reserve – pet friendly year round
Tips for a Safe & Comfortable Trip with Your Dog
- Health check before travelling: Ensure vaccinations, parasite protection and microchip details are up to date.
- Pack their essentials: Food, water, medication, leads, bedding, poo bags and a familiar toy can help your dog feel at home.
- Plan for breaks: Allow time for walks, toileting and water stops, especially on warm days.
- Respect park rules: Keep dogs leashed where required and be mindful of wildlife and other pets.
- Monitor behaviour: New environments can be stimulating – watch for signs of stress or overheating.
Before You Go
With so many dog‑friendly caravan parks across the Geelong, Bellarine and Surf Coast regions, there’s no reason to leave your canine companion behind. These destinations allow you to explore some of Victoria’s most beautiful coastal landscapes while ensuring your dog enjoys a comfortable, enriching holiday too.
If you’re planning to travel soon and need advice on travel health, parasite prevention or anxiety management for your dog, the team at Bellarine Veterinary Practice is always here to help.
Call us today on (03) 5248 2009 or click here to book an appointment online.
