Shanty Reserve

Shanty Reserve is a free, rustic camping spot on River Road in Alfredtown, on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River about fifteen minutes from Wagga Wagga. It is bare-bones and outdoors-only, which is exactly why dogs are welcome without fuss - there is no reception desk to clear it with, just a riverside paddock to pitch on.

The pet policy. Dogs are permitted at unpowered sites suitable for tents, camper trailers, caravans and motorhomes. There is no listed size limit, though as a rustic reserve with no fencing, keeping dogs leashed or under close voice control near the riverbank and other campers is the practical rule rather than a posted one. Fees run around $20 a night in some directories, though other listings mark it as free camping, so confirm the current rate when you arrive or book.

The place. Expect a shaded, open riverside area with room for RVs and camper trailers, basic toilets, picnic tables and rubbish bins, and generally solid Telstra and Optus 4G reception. There is no potable water on site and no pet amenities, so bring your own water bowl and supplies for the dog as well as yourselves.

Location and nearby. River Road access suits most vehicles, though it pays to check conditions after rain before towing anything heavy in. Further along the same road, Oura Beach offers similar quiet riverside camping if Shanty Reserve is full. For a proper walk, Wagga Wagga's river walking tracks are close by, and the Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens has a designated off-leash area if your dog needs a run after a few days at the campsite. The town itself has a good spread of dog-friendly cafes for a coffee stop on the way in or out.

Before you book. Good for a quiet, low-cost overnight stop with the dog rather than a destination stay - there is no camp host or shop, so arrive self-sufficient. Confirm the current nightly fee and any site limits directly, as camping directories don't always agree on the price.

Sources

• Shanty Reserve - Anycamp · anycamp.com.au
• The Shanty Reserve(FC) - Full Range Camping Directory · directory.fullrangecamping.com.au
• Camp with your pets at these 10 campgrounds near Oura, NSW · anycamp.com.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.