Red's Beach and Camping Ground

Red's Beach and Camping Ground is a free, rustic camping area on the Latrobe River flats near Yallourn North in Victoria. There is no booking system, no manager and no fee, and the draw for dog owners is as simple as it gets: camper reports on WikiCamps and AnyCamp consistently list this riverside site as dog-friendly. If you want powered sites, an amenities block or a formal check-in, look elsewhere.

Dogs at the Red's Beach and Camping Ground

Because this is an unmanaged free camp, there is no written pet policy to quote, just the expectations that apply to any dog in a public riverside area: keep the dog under effective control, stay leashed in communal areas and near the riverbank where wildlife and fragile habitat are close, and clean up after them. Pack out your dog's waste too, because there are no bins here. No fees or size limits apply, but check any signage on site in case council rules change.

The setup

Expect an unpowered tent and campervan area with direct river access for fishing, a paddle, swimming and launching small boats. There is no potable water and no toilet block, so bring everything: drinking water for you and the dog, shelter, a first-aid kit and rubbish bags. Parking is unmarked along the riverbank, so pick a firm, level spot rather than the soft river edge.

Getting there

Access is off Pump House Road following the signs towards the Latrobe River flats. The dirt track generally suits conventional vehicles but is uneven and can deteriorate quickly after rain, so check conditions before driving in. Traralgon, about 15 minutes east, is your last reliable stop for supplies, with Traralgon Dog Park for a leg stretch and Coffee Central Moe on the way through.

Worth knowing

If you decide you want facilities after a night or two, the region has managed fallbacks that take dogs: BIG4 Traralgon Park Lane Holiday Park and Moe Gardens Caravan Park both offer pet-friendly sites with real showers.