Calliope South Campsite

Calliope South Campsite is a free, 48-hour riverside rest area on the Old Bruce Highway at River Ranch, Queensland. The defining fact: it is a zero-cost, dog-friendly stopover with flush toilets, directly on the Calliope River. The trade-off is Bruce Highway traffic noise.

The pet policy. Dogs are permitted to stay overnight in your own tent, caravan, or RV at no cost. There are no stated size limits or fees reported. The key rule is strict: dogs must be kept on a lead at all times, according to community reports. This is a roadside camp, not an off-leash reserve, so plan your dog's exercise around leash compliance.

The site and facilities. This is a spacious, unsealed camping area with ample room for large rigs, caravans, and camper trailers. Flush toilets are confirmed. A non-potable bore water tap and a dump point are also reportedly on site, though these lack independent verification. Critically, the bore water is reportedly not drinkable, so bring plenty of fresh water for your dog in litres rather than relying on the tap.

What to do with the dog. The river frontage is the main draw. The camp bank offers decent access for fishing and crabbing, and the water suits paddle boarding if your dog is comfortable around boards. Open areas along the river bank are suitable for on-leash walks and stretching legs after a long drive.

Getting there and timing it right. Access is directly off the Old Bruce Highway on the south side of the Calliope River. The site is popular with Bruce Highway travellers and can fill up, particularly in peak season. Arrive early to secure a riverside spot rather than a highway-edge position.

Nearby with the dogs. For a change of scenery, Calliope River North Rest Area is the sister free camp on the opposite bank, an easy drive away. The Calliope River Historical Village is reportedly open daily from 9am to 3pm, offering on-leash walking among heritage buildings and a cafe kiosk for supplies.

Best suited as a one or two-night transit stop for self-contained travellers moving along the Bruce Highway who want river access without paying camping fees. Arrive by mid-afternoon.

Sources

• Calliope River Rest Area - Free 48hr - Queensland (covers both north and south camping sections) · fulltimecaravanning.com.au
• Camping and Beaches | Gladstone Regional Council · gladstone.qld.gov.au
• Calliope River Rest Area | Camp Around Australia · camparoundaustralia.com.au

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