Bunyip Camping

Bunyip Camping is a relaxed bush campground at 168 Martinsville Rd, Martinsville, set west of Lake Macquarie near the Watagan Mountains. The single defining reason to bring your dog here is the space: large open paddocks with genuine room between campers, plus direct access to bush walks and creeks right behind the camp.

The rules. Bookings are strictly via Hipcamp, with no walk-ins accepted. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on most designated campsites and can join you in a tent, caravan, or camper trailer. Dogs must be kept on a leash and under control at all times, because this is a working and living property with other animals around. The key restriction is site-specific: "Bunyip's Top Paddock" does not allow dogs due to its proximity to a neighbour's chickens, so select a pet-friendly site such as "Bunyip's Wattle Grove" when you book. There is no separate pet fee mentioned, only the nightly site fee.

What's there. Expect powerless bush camping with flushing toilets and sometimes cold showers. Sites suit camper trailers, caravans, and tents, though vehicles over 10 metres are not recommended for some spots such as Top Paddock. Campfires are permitted using fire pits that are available to rent. The property is spacious, with plenty of gap between campers. Hosts live onsite, are friendly, and often keep their own pets. Bring your own dog bowls and food, as the site provides only basic potable water.

The terrain and wildlife. Large open paddocks give way to bushland and creeks directly behind the camp, along with a small bike track that doubles as an easy dog walk. Wildlife is frequent here, including wombats, wallabies, deer, and bandicoots, plus a wide variety of birdlife. Keep your dog leashed and close, particularly at dawn and dusk when native animals are most active.

Getting there and nearby. Martinsville sits west of Lake Macquarie, within reach of the Watagans. For day trips further afield into the wider Hunter region, consider Hunter Valley Retreat or Neath Hotel, though neither is close to the camp itself.

When to go. Book ahead through Hipcamp, as sites are limited and allocated by name rather than walk-up choice. Confirm which site you have and whether fire pits are available before you arrive.

Sources

• Bunyip's Camp - Hipcamp in Martinsville, New South Wales · hipcamp.com
• 12 Extra Dog-Friendly Caravan Parks in Queensland · travelnuity.com

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