Daly's Clearing Camping Area

Daly's Clearing is a free, open camping area in the pine plantations of Belanglo State Forest, on Dalys Road about 25 minutes southwest of Bowral and roughly 90 minutes from Sydney. Because it sits on Forestry Corporation land rather than national park, dogs are welcome, which makes it one of the few genuinely dog-friendly overnight options in the Southern Highlands.

Dogs at Daly's Clearing

Dogs are permitted throughout the forest and at the clearing itself, with no booking, no fee and no size limits. They must stay under effective control, so keep the lead handy around other campers, and you need to pick up after them. The one hazard worth planning for is 1080 pest baiting, which NSW state forests run periodically, so check current Forestry Corporation alerts before you go and keep the dog close rather than roaming. There is no potable water anywhere on site, so pack enough for both of you.

Max: a pine plantation with 1080 baiting history is not the place for a long lead, let alone off-lead roaming. Short lead at camp, and eyes on your dog whenever wildlife or bait warnings are in play.

The setup

Expect a large, level grass and dirt clearing among exotic pines, big enough for tents, camper trailers and caravans to spread out, with a drop toilet, picnic tables and basic BBQs. There are no powered sites and no showers. Campfires are allowed in established fireplaces subject to fire conditions, but solid-fuel fires are banned during total fire bans, so check both Forestry Corporation restrictions and the RFS before you light anything. Access is via Belanglo Road and Dalys Road off the Hume Highway, usually fine in a 2WD.

Close by with the dogs

The forest's fire trails and management tracks give you an on-lead walk without leaving the property. If you want more of the same, HQ Camp in Wingello State Forest is the other free, dog-friendly forest camp in the region, about 35 minutes south. Bundanoon's fenced off-leash dog park works for a secure run if you are passing through the highlands, and Potter's Pantry in Bundanoon is a coffee stop with outdoor seating on the drive.

More options are on the New South Wales pet friendly stays guide and the Belanglo destination page.