Fort O'Hare Picnic & Campground

A free riverside campground on the Glenelg River just off the Princes Highway, popular with dogs for the swimming hole, the canoe launch and the sheer amount of open grass to run on.

The pet policy. Dogs are allowed but must stay on a lead at all times and should not be left unattended at the site. Pick up after them. It's a donation-based campground with no formal booking system, so there's no fee schedule to check, just the honesty box for the town.

The place. Open, grassy sites shaded by gum and banksia trees, with room for caravans, camper trailers and tents. Facilities are basic: long-drop toilets, fire pits and picnic tables, so bring your own water for the dog as there's no tap on site. The swimming hole and the riverbank are the main drawcards, along with reported koala sightings in the trees overhead.

Location and nearby. Right on the Princes Highway in Dartmoor, with easy, flat access for vehicles of any size. The town centre is walking distance for supplies, and the local nine-hole golf course is close by if you need a break from dog-walking duties.

Who it suits. Free-camping regulars, river swimmers and anyone wanting a low-cost overnight stop with the dog rather than a caravan park.

Before you book. There's no booking as such, just turn up, but confirm with locals or the shire if the site is busy during peak holiday weekends since it's first come, first served.

Sources

• Fort O'Hare Picnic Ground - Explore Outdoors · exploreoutdoors.vic.gov.au
• Fort O'Hare Campground - Visit Victoria · visitmelbourne.com
• Fort O'Hare Campground - WikiCamps Australia · wikicamps.com.au

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