Dog Friendly Camping Sunshine Coast

There's nothing better than hitting the open road for a camping trip, especially when your furry co-pilot is riding shotgun. The Sunshine Coast, with its stunning mix of golden beaches and lush, green hinterland, is a dream destination. Finding the perfect spot for dog friendly camping on the Sunshine Coast can turn a good holiday into an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.

While this guide is our deep dive into the best spots on the Sunny Coast, you can explore options across the entire state in our Ultimate Guide to Dog Friendly Campgrounds in QLD.

Top 6 Dog Friendly Camping Grounds in Sunshine Coast - Map

1. BIG4 Caloundra Waterfront

Location:

44 Maloja Ave, Caloundra QLD 4551

The Vibe:

This is a bustling, family-focused resort right on the beautiful Pumicestone Passage. It's packed with activities for the kids (both human and furry) and offers incredible water views. Expect a lively, friendly atmosphere.

Dog Rules:

• Dogs are permitted on specific dog-friendly powered and unpowered sites.
• Approval must be granted at the time of booking.
• Dogs are not permitted in cabins or any communal areas (e.g., pool, camp kitchen).
• Must be kept on a lead at all times within the park.
• Pet policies can change, so we always recommend checking the complete and most up-to-date rules before you book.

Key Amenities:

• Powered and unpowered sites
• Resort-style pool with slides
• Camp kitchen & BBQs
• Amenities blocks
• Wi-Fi
• On-site cafe

Things to Do Nearby with Your Dog:

• Walk the Caloundra Foreshore pathway right from the park entrance.
• Visit nearby Moffat Beach, which has an off-leash area at specific times.
• Grab a coffee at The Pocket Espresso Bar, which has outdoor seating.

Pup Safari's Pro Tip:

Requesting a waterfront site gives you amazing sunset views and easy access to the coastal path for morning and evening walks with your pup.

2. Golden Beach Holiday Park

Location:

9 Onslow St, Golden Beach QLD 4551

The Vibe:

A classic, laid-back caravan park with an unbeatable location. It's quieter than its BIG4 neighbour, offering a more traditional and relaxed camping experience right opposite the calm waters of Golden Beach.

Dog Rules:

• Dog-friendly on selected powered caravan and camping sites only.
• Not permitted during high season (school holidays and long weekends).
• Maximum of 2 dogs per site.
• Dogs must be on a lead when in the park.
• Pet policies can change, so we always recommend checking the complete and most up-to-date rules before you book.

Key Amenities:

• Powered sites
• Toilets and showers
• Laundry facilities
• Camp kitchen and BBQs
• Wi-Fi access

Things to Do Nearby with Your Dog:

• The calm waters of Golden Beach are right across the road, perfect for a gentle splash.
• Enjoy the long, flat walking path that stretches for kilometres along the Esplanade.
• Visit the nearby Powerboat Club, which has a dog-friendly deck.

Pup Safari's Pro Tip:

The park has a direct access to the water. For an easy day, set up a beach shelter across the road for you and your pup to relax under, saving you from packing up the car.

3. Mudjimba Beach Holiday Park

Location:

Cottonwood St, Mudjimba QLD 4564

The Vibe:

A leafy, shaded oasis just a short stroll from the beautiful Mudjimba Beach. It's known for being clean, green, and peaceful, offering a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle while still being close to the action.

Dog Rules:

• Dog-friendly on specific powered caravan and camping sites.
• Blocked out during high season (e.g., QLD school holidays, long weekends).
• Requires pre-approval at the time of booking.
• Must be leashed within the park grounds.
• Pet policies can change, so we always recommend checking the complete and most up-to-date rules before you book.

Key Amenities:

• Powered sites
• Modern amenities block
• Camp kitchen and BBQs
• Laundry facilities
• Children's playground

Things to Do Nearby with Your Dog:

• Mudjimba Dog Beach is a fantastic off-leash dog beach, just a short drive away.
• High Tide Bar & Grill has a dog-friendly outdoor area.
• Explore the walking paths around the Maroochy River.

Pup Safari's Pro Tip:

Book well in advance, as the dog-friendly sites are limited and very popular due to the park's fantastic location and proximity to the off-leash beach.

4. Coolum Beach Holiday Park

Location:

1827 David Low Way, Coolum Beach QLD 4573

The Vibe:

Perfectly positioned between the Coolum Surf Club and the main shopping strip, this park has a vibrant, beach-town energy. It's the ideal base for those who want to surf, swim, and have cafes and shops right on their doorstep.

Dog Rules:

• Dogs are welcome on designated powered sites.
• Not permitted during peak holiday seasons.
• Approval from park management is required before arrival.
• Must be on a leash at all times.
• Pet policies can change, so we always recommend checking the complete and most up-to-date rules before you book.

Key Amenities:

• Powered slab and grass sites
• Toilets and showers
• Laundry
• Direct beach access
• Wi-Fi

Things to Do Nearby with Your Dog:

• The northern end of Coolum Beach (Stumers Creek) is a famous and very popular off-leash dog beach.
• Many local cafes like Canteen Kitchen have dog-friendly outdoor seating.

Pup Safari's Pro Tip:

The real gem here is the Stumers Creek off-leash area. It's a very short drive from the park, and our top tip is to use the dog wash facilities there to rinse your sandy pup before heading back to the van.

5. Bluff Creek Campground Kenilworth

Location:

44 Wilcox Rd, Kenilworth QLD 4574

The Vibe:

A true hinterland escape. This is a spacious, back-to-basics campground set on the banks of Bluff Creek and the Mary River. It's all about open fires, starry nights, and reconnecting with nature. The vibe is peaceful, spacious, and authentically rustic.

Dog Rules:

• Dogs are welcome and must be kept on a lead.
• Owners must be respectful of other campers and wildlife.
• You must clean up after your dog immediately.
• Pet policies can change, so we always recommend checking the complete and most up-to-date rules before you book.

Key Amenities:

• Unpowered camping sites
• Hot showers and flushing toilets (amenities blocks are clean and well-maintained)
• Individual fire pits at each site
• Creek access for swimming/kayaking

Things to Do Nearby with Your Dog:

• Explore the campground's own walking tracks along the creek.
• Visit the Kenilworth township (many shops leave water bowls out).
• Head to the Kenilworth Hotel & Brewery for a pub lunch in their dog-friendly beer garden.

Pup Safari's Pro Tip:

Bring a long tether or rope for your dog so they can safely enjoy the water near your campsite without you having to hold a lead the entire time.

6. Kookaburra Park

Location:

2951 Maleny Kenilworth Rd, Cambroon QLD 4552

The Vibe:

More than just a campground, this is a family-friendly farm stay experience. Set in a beautiful valley, it's famous for its animal encounters, river access, and community feel. It’s perfect for families who want activities on-site.

Dog Rules:

• Dogs are very welcome but must be pre-booked.
• They have a dedicated off-leash "Dog Park".
• Must be on-leash in all other areas of the park.
• Not allowed near the main farm animal enclosures.
• Pet policies can change, so we always recommend checking the complete and most up-to-date rules before you book.

Key Amenities:

• Powered and unpowered sites
• Hot showers and toilets
• Animal feeding sessions
• River access for swimming
• Camp kitchen

Things to Do Nearby with Your Dog:

• Let them run free in the on-site dog park.
• Go for a swim in the Mary River.

Pup Safari's Pro Tip:

Dog owners love the dedicated dog park. Use it for a good run in the morning and evening, and your dog will be much happier to relax on the lead at your campsite during the day.

The Journey to the Campsite

Packing the right gear is essential for a great camping trip in QLD, but the most important piece of equipment for the drive there is a safe and reliable dog car restraint. Arriving safely is the first step to any successful adventure.

Unsure which restraint is best? Read our Guide to Dog Car Safety Restraints to compare your options.