Doon Reserve Caravan Park.

Doon Reserve Caravan Park is a riverside camping ground on the upper Yarra River at Yarra Junction, an hour east of Melbourne, and it takes dogs on its powered and unpowered camping sites, not in cabins or facilities. If you are after a low-key riverside camp where the dog can be off leash on your own site and on lead by the water, this is a solid option in the Yarra Valley.

The pet policy. Dogs are welcome on camping and caravan sites, with a limit of two dogs per site. They must be leashed at all times within the park and never left unattended. Aggressive or persistently noisy dogs are not tolerated, and management can ask owners to leave. Bring your own bedding, food and water bowls, there is no pet supply provision on site.

Where dogs cannot go. Pets are not permitted inside the office, camp kitchen or toilet and shower blocks, so plan bathroom stops and cooking around that.

The place. Sites sit among gum trees on the river, with shade for most of the day and space for caravans, camper trailers and tents. The Yarra River runs alongside the park and has shallow sections suitable for a supervised paddle or dog swim, though currents can pick up after rain, so check conditions before letting a dog in deeper water.

Getting there. The park is at 200 Doon Rd, Yarra Junction, with free on-site parking and easy access for larger vehicles. Yarra Junction's shops and cafes are a short drive away, several with outdoor seating that will take a dog.

Who it suits. Confirm current site availability and any seasonal rule changes at booking, park policies can shift with season and demand. Good for owners after a straightforward riverside camp rather than a resort-style stay, and for dogs settled enough to stay on lead around a busy site.

Sources

• Dog-Friendly Camping in the Yarra Valley | Doon Reserve · doonreserve.com.au
• Park Rules · doonreserve.com.au
• Frequently Asked Questions - Doon Reserve Caravan Park · doonreserve.com.au

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