Lake Wallace Camping

Lake Wallace Camping is a free 48-hour camping ground beside the lake in Wallerawang, about 10 minutes west of Lithgow, and it is one of the better-equipped free camps in the region for dog owners thanks to a fenced off-leash dog area right on site.

The pet policy. Dogs are welcome throughout the camping ground on lead and under supervision at your site. There is a dedicated fenced dog pen on the grounds where dogs can run off-leash, though outside that pen leash rules apply across the rest of the reserve. Camping is free with a maximum 48-hour stay, so there are no pet fees to budget for.

The place. The grounds are large, flat and grassy, suitable for tents, camper trailers, caravans and buses, with well-graded internal roads that standard two-wheel-drive vehicles can manage. On-site facilities include free 24-hour hot showers, toilets, an RV dump point, a boathouse, picnic tables, gas and electric barbecues, and a large kids' playground. There is no tap directly inside the dog pen, so bring your own water bowl and fill up at the tap near the playground about 20 metres away, and pack your own treats and food.

Location and nearby. The site is just off the Castlereagh Highway, around 45 minutes from Bathurst and roughly two and a half hours from Sydney. A walking track loops around the lake and is a good option for an on-leash walk with the dog. Lithgow's State Mine Heritage Park and the Tin Tunnel are both about 15 minutes away and worth a stop if you are staying a night or two. The Commercial Hotel in town also takes dogs in its cabins if you want a change from camping.

Who it suits. A strong pick for anyone road-tripping with a dog who wants a genuine off-leash run without paying for it. The 48-hour cap means it works best as a stopover rather than a long stay, and it gets busy on weekends given the amenities, so arrive early to get a good spot near the water.

Sources

• Lake Wallace - NSW Government · nsw.gov.au
• Lake Wallace Camping | NSW Campsites · camptoo.com.au
• Lake Wallace the PERFECT Weekend Camping Getaway · youtube.com

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