Lake Kepwari camp grounds

Mick Murray Campground sits on the eastern shore of Lake Kepwari, a rehabilitated former coal mine pit that now holds a clear, calm swimming lake about 16km from Collie. Dogs are welcome across the campground and park on a lead at all times, so a lakeside weekend with a swimming dog is entirely on the cards.

Dogs at the campground

Per Explore Parks WA and the Parks and Wildlife Service, dogs are permitted throughout the site as long as they stay on a leash and under control. There is no published size limit and no separate dog fee; standard per-site camping charges apply, booked through Explore Parks WA up to 180 days ahead. Bookings are essential, especially for weekends and school holidays.

Keep the lead on near the boat ramp and ski zones, which get busy with trailers and towed skiers on warm weekends. The lake edge itself is the drawcard for water-loving dogs, and the shoreline walk makes a good leg-stretcher between swims.

The setup

The campground offers 21 unpowered gravel sites for tents, camper trailers and caravans, each with a picnic table and fire ring. Seasonal campfires are generally allowed from April to November in the provided rings, with firewood brought in. You get accessible toilets, sheltered dining areas with barbecues, picnic tables and a communal fire pit, plus a boat ramp for skiers and paddlers. Generators run from 8am to 6pm only.

The one thing to pack heavily is water. There is no reliable drinking water on site, and any tank or tap water needs treatment, so bring enough for yourself and the dog.

Worth knowing

Tree cover around the lake edge is limited, so shade can be scarce at midday; a tarp or shelter helps dogs that wilt in the sun. If Mick Murray is booked out, David Ugle Campground on the northern shore is the other lake option.

Getting there

The campground is on Neath Road at Cardiff, roughly 16km from Collie via Paterson Street, Preston Road and McAlinden Road, sealed most of the way. Collie township covers supply runs, with New Nero Espresso Bar nearby for coffee. For other bases in the area, Wambenger Lodge sits in Collie itself. See more pet friendly stays in Western Australia or explore Cardiff.

Pepsi: a whole lake that smells like dog heaven, and they still make me walk everywhere on a rope.