Southside Holiday Village

Southside Holiday Village at 283 Lower Dawson Road is a clean, well-run park on the south side of Rockhampton that takes dogs, but only in selected pet-friendly cabins and on selected sites, and only when pre-booked. Its position just off the Bruce Highway makes it work equally as a highway stopover and as a base for a longer stay, with the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens a short drive away.

Dogs at the village

The published policy has specifics worth noting before you book. Only small companion breeds are accepted; large, working or aggressive dogs are not permitted. Pet cabins carry a $10 per night fee. You must phone reception to book pet-friendly accommodation, since the pet cabins and sites are limited and cannot be locked in online. Inside the park, dogs stay on a lead at all times and are not allowed in or near the pool, amenities, camp kitchen, barbecues or playground. Do not leave your dog unattended, and pick up and bin waste straight away.

Max: the small-breeds-only rule is the one that catches people out. If your dog is over about knee height, ring reception before planning a stop here.

Worth knowing

Reviewers consistently mention clean cabins and amenities, comfortable beds and helpful staff, with a note that train noise reaches some sites. Parking for one car sits beside your cabin or on your site, which keeps arrivals simple with a dog in the car.

Out and about

For an off-lead run, Georgeson Oval at The Range is a fenced off-leash area a short drive away, and Kershaw Gardens on the north side offers open space under effective control. For coffee, Cousins On William and Kinsfolk Coffee welcome dogs.

More options are on the Queensland pet friendly stays guide and the Rockhampton destination page.