The Park Mackay

The Park Mackay is a caravan park at 284 Farrellys Road in Paget, about 7 km south of the Mackay CBD and just off the Bruce Highway. It is a practical stopover park with drive-through sites that suit big rigs, and it does take dogs, but only within designated pet-friendly areas rather than across the whole property. Calling ahead before you book is essential.

Dogs at the park

Dogs are permitted overnight, but pet-friendly options are limited to particular designated sites. Reports from caravanners describe being directed to a confined pet area rather than having free run of the park's powered and unpowered sites. Pet-friendly cabins may also exist, but the rules around cabin interiors are not clearly published, so phone the park on +61 7 4952 1211 to confirm availability and any restrictions on pet size or number. In shared areas dogs must be under control and generally on a leash. Treat every policy detail as something to verify at booking, since the park's rules can change.

Max: ask two questions when you call, which sites are in the pet area for your dates, and whether the rules on size or number of dogs apply to you. Do not book before both are answered.

The setup

The grounds are spacious and well kept, with grass drive-through powered sites and parking that handles large caravans, boats and trailers. Facilities include clean amenities and a camp kitchen. The setting is industrial Paget rather than the seafront, which keeps it quiet at night and puts a Woolworths about a kilometre away for restocking.

Out and about in Mackay

For an off-lead run, Gooseponds Dog Park and the Mackay Off Lead Fenced Dog Park are both north of the river, a short drive away. If you are weighing up parks in the region, Mackay Caravan Park is the other caravan-park option closer to town.

Best for self-sufficient travellers with a large setup who want highway convenience and a pet area they can confirm on the phone. More options are on the Queensland pet friendly stays guide and the Paget destination page.