The best dog-friendly camping near Sawtell

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Camping with your pet in Sawtell means waking up to the sound of birds, not traffic. With over 770 pet-friendly spots, you can pitch a tent or roll up in your caravan just minutes from the coast or tucked behind gum trees. Many sites welcome campfires, so you and your dog can settle in by the flames after a day spent surfing, fishing, or watching kangaroos graze at dusk. Prices start at $8 a night, with most sites averaging $40. Favourites like Dodona (419 reviews), Footprints in Style (418 reviews), and Valley View Escape (344 reviews) make it easy to find a spot with toilets and room for your four-legged mate. This is real camping—simple, relaxed, and built for travellers who’d rather have sand on their shoes than city dust in their lungs.

96% (6.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Vallis Oakes

1. Vallis Oakes

100%
(69)
51km from Sawtell · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Girralong, NSW
Welcome to Vallis Oakes, your own slice of paradise nestled on over 300 acres, surrounded by the tranquil Oakes State Forest and the vibrant Gumbaynggirr National Parks. Check out our instagram - @vallis_oakes Swim in the crystal-clear waters and be on the lookout for local wildlife like frogs, turtles, eagles, king parrots, black cockatoos, kingfishers, goannas, and the beautiful Crimson Rosellas. Fireflies have also been spotted! Discover a variety of activities including hiking trails, lookouts, motorbike and 4WD trails. Vallis Oakes is the perfect base for exploring the national parks and then relaxing by the fire under the stars. SELF CONTAINED CAMPERS ONLY To keep our valley pristine, all campers must be fully self-contained. This means having your own toilet, water supply, and taking all waste with you when you leave. This is non-negotiable to maintain the site's natural beauty. PETS are welcome provided they are good with other dogs and livestock. FLOOD WARNING The property is located on river frontage, it may be subject to flooding during heavy rain. Please check with us 3 days before arrival to confirm current conditions. In case of flooding, a full refund will be issued, or an alternate campsite on higher ground may be available. While the photos showcase the stunning blue waters, please note that the water’s appearance may change after heavy rain. You are welcome to enjoy campfires, provided there are no local restrictions. Firewood is available for purchase onsite. Plenty of space is available for caravans, camper trailers, and tents. The sites are 4WD only due to water crossings and challenging road conditions after heavy rain. PRIMITIVE CAMPING We do not have on-site amenities. Please bring all necessary supplies, including a camp toilet. It is essential to maintain the cleanliness of the site, NO DIGGING HOLES and all waste must be removed upon departure. We have a collection point for cans + bottles. Please note that there is no phone reception. If you require internet access, WiFi is available by the main cottage. We look forward to your visit and hope you enjoy everything Vallis Oakes has to offer! If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to contact us. Have a wonderful stay!
Campfires
from 
AU$73
 / night
Ingenia Holidays Nambucca Heads

2. Ingenia Holidays Nambucca Heads

92%
(18)
32km from Sawtell · 146 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Nambucca Heads, NSW
Who says you can’t have a rainforest, beach and tidal lagoon all on your doorstep while on holidays? Ingenia Holidays Nambucca Heads is positioned where the Nambucca River and South Pacific Ocean meet. Our guests can enjoy the luxury of direct access to a tidal lagoon as well as a surf beach less than two minutes’ walk away. With a resort style swimming pool, waterslides and splash park – there’s plenty of ways for the whole family to keep cool within the holiday park grounds too. Choose from caravan and camping sites, including waterfront sites, or book a cabin sleeping up to six people – perfect for a couple’s getaway or family reunion. While you can choose to prepare your meals in your cabin or the camp kitchen, if you need a night off cooking or cleaning, make the most of the onsite café and restaurant V-Wall Pavilion where you’ll find a casual dining menu, with an array of classic pub meals, modern cuisine and a VIP gaming lounge on offer.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$88
 / night
Waterfalls & More

3. Waterfalls & More

94%
(223)
35km from Sawtell · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Sherwood, NSW
HIDING IN THE MIDDLE OF EVERYWHERE! Pure. Unadulterated. WILD. 104 very private acres, securely sandwiched between a National Park Nature Reserve and State Forest. On a dead end road. No agriculture or farms upstream, only one other like-minded property owner. Secluded, but hiding smack bang in the middle of everywhere! From vertiginous sandstone cliffs on which epipetrics cling tight, right through to palm-filled rainforests, and with two quite different creek systems (including a monster waterfall), you'll be spoiled for things to do and places to explore - without even leaving the property! HISTORY This land is Gumbaynggirr land. Please be particularly mindful of our First Nation's long presence on this land. In the 1800's, white men came seeking Red Cedar, closely followed by settlers having a go at dairying; though logging has remained this area's mainstay. This special property, despite last being selectively logged about 50 years ago, hosts many huge old-growth trees remaining steadfast for your discovery and wonder. And many more are continuing to grow out too. About 35 years ago about nine of this property's eastern-most 104 acres became part of a far larger nashi pear orchard which filled much of the flats of this top end of the valley that you see today. Ultimately they failed to set good commercial fruit, and the rootstocks took over. You can see remnant rows of these trees just south of the property, from along the road. (Beware though - they have spikes that could puncture Caterpillar tracks!) MORE RECENTLY extensive lantana control efforts have been undertaken as we now move into revegetating with native species and implementing a permaculture plan. Today the property is registered with Land For Wildlife and hosts a very wide mix of native vegetation communities. ACTIVITIES Bird watch. Climb. Abseil. Photograph wildflowers. Paint. Swim. In the next valley there's even gold to be found. Explore trails by mountain bike. Whale watch. Surf. Learn SCUBA. Go beach-combing. Catch a mudcrab. Go whitewater river rafting. Ask your host about where to find all the local waterfalls, the best walking, how to find gold, the gnarliest off-road tracks, Anything is possible here in this magnificent part of the world, except perhaps snow and ice.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$40
 / night
Pelican Caravan Park

5. Pelican Caravan Park

83%
(3)
37km from Sawtell · 25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Nambucca Heads, NSW
Pelican Caravan Park features broad river frontage on the Nambucca River. We boast many features including a private boat ramp, jetty and pontoon, pool with wading pool, riverfront camp kitchen and free wifi. We offer a range of cabins and sites which can cater for group bookings, family reunions, birthdays and fishing trips etc. In total there are cabins including Superior 1 + 2 Bedroom cabins, Deluxe 1 + 2 Bedroom cabins and standard cabins. We also have powered sites, some with absolute river frontage and some approximately 40 meters from the river which can cater for caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, campervans and tents. Since the highway bypass (we were on the old Pacific Highway) the highway noise has been removed. Whilst it has always been a beautiful location, we can now add tranquil to the list. If you have stayed in the past and found it too noisy, or been put off by the proximity to the highway, then come and experience the difference. You won’t be disappointed. An ideal base to explore the Nambucca Valley, Coffs Harbour, Bellingen, Dorrigo and discovering the delights of the area. Bring your boat and go fishing all day for flathead and bream or fish from the river’s edge. Pelican Caravan Park is pet friendly all year round.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$46
 / night

Camping with your pet in Sawtell means waking up to the sound of birds, not traffic. With over 770 pet-friendly spots, you can pitch a tent or roll up in your caravan just minutes from the coast or tucked behind gum trees. Many sites welcome campfires, so you and your dog can settle in by the flames after a day spent surfing, fishing, or watching kangaroos graze at dusk. Prices start at $8 a night, with most sites averaging $40. Favourites like Dodona (419 reviews), Footprints in Style (418 reviews), and Valley View Escape (344 reviews) make it easy to find a spot with toilets and room for your four-legged mate. This is real camping—simple, relaxed, and built for travellers who’d rather have sand on their shoes than city dust in their lungs.

96% (6.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Vallis Oakes

1. Vallis Oakes

100%
(69)
51km from Sawtell · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Girralong, NSW
Welcome to Vallis Oakes, your own slice of paradise nestled on over 300 acres, surrounded by the tranquil Oakes State Forest and the vibrant Gumbaynggirr National Parks. Check out our instagram - @vallis_oakes Swim in the crystal-clear waters and be on the lookout for local wildlife like frogs, turtles, eagles, king parrots, black cockatoos, kingfishers, goannas, and the beautiful Crimson Rosellas. Fireflies have also been spotted! Discover a variety of activities including hiking trails, lookouts, motorbike and 4WD trails. Vallis Oakes is the perfect base for exploring the national parks and then relaxing by the fire under the stars. SELF CONTAINED CAMPERS ONLY To keep our valley pristine, all campers must be fully self-contained. This means having your own toilet, water supply, and taking all waste with you when you leave. This is non-negotiable to maintain the site's natural beauty. PETS are welcome provided they are good with other dogs and livestock. FLOOD WARNING The property is located on river frontage, it may be subject to flooding during heavy rain. Please check with us 3 days before arrival to confirm current conditions. In case of flooding, a full refund will be issued, or an alternate campsite on higher ground may be available. While the photos showcase the stunning blue waters, please note that the water’s appearance may change after heavy rain. You are welcome to enjoy campfires, provided there are no local restrictions. Firewood is available for purchase onsite. Plenty of space is available for caravans, camper trailers, and tents. The sites are 4WD only due to water crossings and challenging road conditions after heavy rain. PRIMITIVE CAMPING We do not have on-site amenities. Please bring all necessary supplies, including a camp toilet. It is essential to maintain the cleanliness of the site, NO DIGGING HOLES and all waste must be removed upon departure. We have a collection point for cans + bottles. Please note that there is no phone reception. If you require internet access, WiFi is available by the main cottage. We look forward to your visit and hope you enjoy everything Vallis Oakes has to offer! If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to contact us. Have a wonderful stay!
Campfires
from 
AU$73
 / night
Ingenia Holidays Nambucca Heads

2. Ingenia Holidays Nambucca Heads

92%
(18)
32km from Sawtell · 146 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Nambucca Heads, NSW
Who says you can’t have a rainforest, beach and tidal lagoon all on your doorstep while on holidays? Ingenia Holidays Nambucca Heads is positioned where the Nambucca River and South Pacific Ocean meet. Our guests can enjoy the luxury of direct access to a tidal lagoon as well as a surf beach less than two minutes’ walk away. With a resort style swimming pool, waterslides and splash park – there’s plenty of ways for the whole family to keep cool within the holiday park grounds too. Choose from caravan and camping sites, including waterfront sites, or book a cabin sleeping up to six people – perfect for a couple’s getaway or family reunion. While you can choose to prepare your meals in your cabin or the camp kitchen, if you need a night off cooking or cleaning, make the most of the onsite café and restaurant V-Wall Pavilion where you’ll find a casual dining menu, with an array of classic pub meals, modern cuisine and a VIP gaming lounge on offer.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$88
 / night
Waterfalls & More

3. Waterfalls & More

94%
(223)
35km from Sawtell · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Sherwood, NSW
HIDING IN THE MIDDLE OF EVERYWHERE! Pure. Unadulterated. WILD. 104 very private acres, securely sandwiched between a National Park Nature Reserve and State Forest. On a dead end road. No agriculture or farms upstream, only one other like-minded property owner. Secluded, but hiding smack bang in the middle of everywhere! From vertiginous sandstone cliffs on which epipetrics cling tight, right through to palm-filled rainforests, and with two quite different creek systems (including a monster waterfall), you'll be spoiled for things to do and places to explore - without even leaving the property! HISTORY This land is Gumbaynggirr land. Please be particularly mindful of our First Nation's long presence on this land. In the 1800's, white men came seeking Red Cedar, closely followed by settlers having a go at dairying; though logging has remained this area's mainstay. This special property, despite last being selectively logged about 50 years ago, hosts many huge old-growth trees remaining steadfast for your discovery and wonder. And many more are continuing to grow out too. About 35 years ago about nine of this property's eastern-most 104 acres became part of a far larger nashi pear orchard which filled much of the flats of this top end of the valley that you see today. Ultimately they failed to set good commercial fruit, and the rootstocks took over. You can see remnant rows of these trees just south of the property, from along the road. (Beware though - they have spikes that could puncture Caterpillar tracks!) MORE RECENTLY extensive lantana control efforts have been undertaken as we now move into revegetating with native species and implementing a permaculture plan. Today the property is registered with Land For Wildlife and hosts a very wide mix of native vegetation communities. ACTIVITIES Bird watch. Climb. Abseil. Photograph wildflowers. Paint. Swim. In the next valley there's even gold to be found. Explore trails by mountain bike. Whale watch. Surf. Learn SCUBA. Go beach-combing. Catch a mudcrab. Go whitewater river rafting. Ask your host about where to find all the local waterfalls, the best walking, how to find gold, the gnarliest off-road tracks, Anything is possible here in this magnificent part of the world, except perhaps snow and ice.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
AU$40
 / night
Pelican Caravan Park

5. Pelican Caravan Park

83%
(3)
37km from Sawtell · 25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Nambucca Heads, NSW
Pelican Caravan Park features broad river frontage on the Nambucca River. We boast many features including a private boat ramp, jetty and pontoon, pool with wading pool, riverfront camp kitchen and free wifi. We offer a range of cabins and sites which can cater for group bookings, family reunions, birthdays and fishing trips etc. In total there are cabins including Superior 1 + 2 Bedroom cabins, Deluxe 1 + 2 Bedroom cabins and standard cabins. We also have powered sites, some with absolute river frontage and some approximately 40 meters from the river which can cater for caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, campervans and tents. Since the highway bypass (we were on the old Pacific Highway) the highway noise has been removed. Whilst it has always been a beautiful location, we can now add tranquil to the list. If you have stayed in the past and found it too noisy, or been put off by the proximity to the highway, then come and experience the difference. You won’t be disappointed. An ideal base to explore the Nambucca Valley, Coffs Harbour, Bellingen, Dorrigo and discovering the delights of the area. Bring your boat and go fishing all day for flathead and bream or fish from the river’s edge. Pelican Caravan Park is pet friendly all year round.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
AU$46
 / night

Stories from the community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field