Shanty Reserve

Shanty Reserve is a rustic riverside camping spot on River Road at Alfredtown, on the banks of the Murrumbidgee about ten minutes east of Wagga Wagga. It is bare-bones bush camping, which is exactly why dogs are easy here: no booking system, no gatehouse and no rules sheet, just a shady riverbank paddock where pets are welcome under control.

Dogs at the Shanty Reserve

Dogs are listed as welcome by the camping directories that cover the reserve, with the usual conditions of keeping them under control, respecting wildlife and cleaning up. There is no fencing and the river runs along the site boundary, so the practical arrangement is lead or solid voice control, and keep the dog away from the bank after dark when you cannot judge the drop. Bring your own water and bowl; there is nothing on site for either of you.

Pepsi: the current in the Murrumbidgee after rain is no place for a swimming session on a long line. Let the dog wade at the shallow edges and save the swimming for a fenced park in town.

The place

Expect an open, shaded riverside area that suits tents, camper trailers, caravans and self-contained motorhomes. There is no power and no potable water, and directories disagree on the rest: some list basic toilets, picnic tables and bins, Campermate describes it as having no facilities at all, so plan to be fully self-sufficient with your own toilet setup and rubbish bags either way. Camping is free, with no booking required. Fishing, kayaking and corella-and-cockatoo spotting are the activities, and mobile reception is generally solid for both major carriers.

Getting there

Turn off the Sturt Highway onto River Road at Alfredtown and follow the unsealed tracks towards the river. Dry weather makes it manageable for most vehicles; after rain the tracks turn to mud and a 4WD or high-clearance rig is strongly recommended, especially with a van on the back.

While you're out there

Back in Wagga Wagga, the Narrung Street Fenced Dog Park and Chaston Pet Hub are the secure options for a proper run, and The Early Bird is a coffee stop with the dog on the way past. More options are on the NSW dog-friendly stays guide and the Alfredtown destination page.