Black River Caravan Park

Black River Caravan Park sits on the banks of the Black River about 20 km north of Townsville, and it is set up for dogs rather than just tolerating them. The standout is a large, securely fenced paddock set aside purely for off-leash time, which is far rarer than it should be at caravan parks. It is a gated, well-grassed park popular with grey nomads, and dogs are welcome throughout the site areas.

Dogs at Black River Caravan Park

Dogs are welcome on powered and unpowered caravan, camper and tent sites, including the big drive-through sites built for large rigs. They are not permitted in the park-owned cabins, so travelling with your own van, camper or tent is the only way to bring one. Inside the fenced paddock your dog can run free; everywhere else in the park the rule is lead on and cleaned up after, and dogs should not be left unattended. The park does not advertise a separate pet fee, but confirm current conditions when you book. There is a dedicated dog wash bay and the laundry includes a washing machine reserved for pet bedding, which earns its keep after a dusty river session.

Max: the water here comes from the river, so it is fine for washing dogs but bring your own drinking water and treats rather than relying on the taps.

Worth knowing

The park is an over-50s and grey nomad favourite with a peaceful bushland setting and plenty of birdlife. The camp kitchen runs two electric ovens, gas barbecues and a wood-fired pizza oven, and the showers are full-size rather than cubicle-sized. Sites are spacious and well grassed, many 20 to 30 metres and drive-through, so you can leave the van hitched. Campfires are permitted, which matters when the dog wants to settle by the fire as much as you do.

Getting there and parking

The park is at 772 Black River Road, just off the Bruce Highway via Saunders Beach Road. Woodlands shopping area is about 8 km away for day-to-day supplies, with bigger centres another 15 to 20 minutes on. Bushland Beach and Saunders Beach are both a short drive for a walk on the sand with your dog on a lead.

Close by with the dogs

In Townsville itself, Mount Louisa Dog Park and Apex Dog Park give your dog more off-leash time beyond the paddock. If you need a cabin-stay option instead, Coral Coast Tourist Park and Townsville Lakes Holiday Park are the closer-to-town alternatives on our list. More options are in the Queensland pet friendly stays guide and on the Black River destination page.