HQ Camp Wingello State Forest
- Dogs
- Welcome
- Size cap
- No cap
- Where
- Wingello, NSW
- Policy checked
- 2026-06-11
What visitors mention
Pet policy
Yes, dogs are generally allowed to stay overnight at HQ Camp in Wingello State Forest. - Pet Policy: Dogs are permitted in the state forest and camping areas (which includes HQ Camp). They must be under their owner's control. - Size Limit/Breed Restrictions: There are no specific restrictions on dog breed or size, but they must be managed responsibly. - Fees: Camping and the presence of dogs in NSW State Forests is generally free. - Accommodation/Facilities: HQ Camp is a rustic, free campground, primarily for camping (tents, caravans, camper trailers) rather than cabins, with drop toilets ava
HQ Camp is a free, rustic campground in Wingello State Forest, Southern Highlands NSW, set among radiata pine plantations about 10 to 15 minutes' drive from Bundanoon. No bookings, no fees, no cabins. That alone decides whether it's your kind of spot or not.
The pet policy. Dogs are welcome to camp overnight at HQ Camp and throughout Wingello State Forest, with no breed or size restrictions. There is no pet fee. The rule is straightforward: keep your dog under control at all times, and use a leash in high-traffic camping areas to respect other campers. Walking trails and forest fire trails are available for on-lead or off-lead exercise if your dog is reliably obedient.
The place. A large, open, grassy campground with many level spots suitable for tents, caravans, camper trailers and motorhomes. Facilities are minimal: non-flush drop toilets, fire pits, picnic tables and a kids playground. A water tank exists on site but is not guaranteed potable. This is off-grid camping in a working pine plantation, popular with mountain bikers and walkers.
Location & nearby. Access is via Forest Road, a graded dirt road generally passable to 2WD vehicles, though conditions can deteriorate after rain. Wingello village itself is tiny. The nearest useful town is Bundanoon, a short drive north, where you will find Potter's Pantry Bundanoon, DeliLicious Bundanoon and the Bundanoon fenced off-leash dog park if your dog needs a proper run off the forest trails.
Who it suits. Self-sufficient campers who want a cost-free base for walking, mountain biking and quiet forest time with their dog. Plenty of room for large rigs. Not for anyone who needs powered sites, flushing toilets or reliable drinking water on tap.
Before you book. No booking is required. The maximum stay is two weeks in any three-month period. Campfires are permitted only between Easter and the October long weekend, and you should always check current fire restrictions and total fire ban status before lighting one. Bring all your own drinking water, for you and your dog.
Pepsi's takegolden retriever
Good for off-grid campers and mountain bikers who want free forest camping with their dog, no strings attached.
Sources
- Wingello State Forest: Free Dog-Friendly Camping · campwatch.com.au
- Free camp in a grove at Wingello State Forest · campsaustraliawide.com
- Wingello Forest Campground · nsw.gov.au
Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.
Policy verified 11 June 2026 Always confirm with the venue before you travel.
