Stockton Lake

Stockton Lake is a rustic, dog-friendly camping ground about 7km east of Collie and roughly 2.5 hours from Perth, set around a former open-cut mine now flooded with striking, clear turquoise water. The defining reason to make the trip is straightforward: lakeside bush camping where your dog is genuinely welcome, with boating, swimming and an easy cliff trail right at the site.

The pet policy. Dogs are welcome but must remain on a leash at all times. There is no off-leash area within the campground, so this is a venue for owners comfortable managing their dog on-lead across the entire stay, including around other campers, boaters and the resident friendly ducks.

The place. Expect open bush camping, not a serviced holiday park. Sites are unallocated and first-come, first-served, with a mix of open and shaded spots suitable for tents, caravans and camper trailers. Facilities are basic: ageing toilets including long drop and flush options, and the advice is to bring your own portable chemical toilet. Collecting firewood on-site is prohibited, so bring your own.

Getting there and booking. The campground sits on Piavanini Road, off the Collie-Darkan Road. Most of the site is accessible. As of 2026, fees are collected daily by a ranger and bookings are required for stays, so do not turn up expecting to pay at a self-registration booth. It can get busy with locals on weekends, and occasional ice cream trucks such as Mr Whippy visit.

Who it suits. Owners of sociable, on-leash dogs who want a genuine bush camping experience and do not need powered sites or modern amenities. The leash requirement suits dogs that are comfortable around activity: boats, water skiers, other campers and wildlife. If your dog needs off-leash running to settle, this is not the right venue.

Nearby with the dogs. Collie town centre is only 7km away for supplies, cafes and services, and Barn-Zee's Burgers and Barista is a solid pick for a quick meal. The wider Collie area has mountain biking and hiking trails, many of them dog-friendly. For owners who want a comfortable base rather than a tent, nearby stays include Wambenger Lodge, Whispering Pines Bed and Breakfast and The Colliefields.

When to go. Aim for a weekday if you want a quieter site and a better chance of picking your spot. The Stockton Lake Cliff Trail Circuit, an easy 2.7km loop with scenic views, is best in cooler weather when the open bush offers little shade. Good for on-leash dogs and owners who do not mind basic facilities.

Sources

• Stockton Lake - Explore Parks WA · exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au
• Stockton Lake - Collie River Valley · collierivervalley.com.au
• Stockton Lake Campground - Accommodation · westernaustralia.com
• Camping with Doggos - Stockton Lake, Collie Traveller Reviews · tripadvisor.com.au

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