Bellingen Showgrounds

Bellingen Showgrounds is a dog-friendly camping and caravan ground within walking distance of the town centre, which is its main draw: park the van, then stroll into Bellingen for coffee with the dog on lead, no driving required. It is a simple, well-run showground rather than a resort, so set expectations at clean-and-basic and you will not be disappointed.

Dogs at the showgrounds

Dogs are allowed to stay overnight and are welcome through the camping and caravan areas on a lead at all times. No specific size or breed limits are listed, and there is no separate pet fee, though camping rates now apply. Book ahead online, particularly around show and event dates when the grounds close to camping, and confirm the current lead rule directly when you reserve.

The setup

Powered sites, hot showers and clean amenities are the standing positives in reviews, with friendly volunteer managers and a dump point on site. There is no camp kitchen, so bring your own cooking setup. The ground is open and grassy with limited shade, so come prepared. It suits self-sufficient van and tent travellers who want town on foot rather than a bush retreat, and because it is a shared ground that gets busy in peak periods, keep your dog leashed near other sites.

Close by with the dogs

The town walk is the standout: Church Street's cafes and galleries, and the Bellinger River beyond. Hyde and Charlies at Church are Bellingen options in the directory. For off-lead time, Jarrett Park west of Lavenders Bridge is the shire's designated off-leash area, right by the river, and the river walk from the park is an easy, partly paved stroll. NSW national parks and reserves nearby are off-limits to dogs entirely. Further afield, the Urunga Dog Beach is a short drive east, and Reflections Urunga Holiday Park is the coastal alternative for a stay.

A practical, honest base: nothing fancy, but town on your doorstep and a dog-friendly welcome at a fair rate.