Can you take dogs to the otways?

Great Otway National Park has some stunning campground to take the dogs

Great Otway National Park and the Forest Park are highly valued assets of Victoria. This area covers a vast area with a huge range of activities. There are sections here where the dogs can join in on walking, camping, horse riding, cycling, fishing, picnicking or hunting.

Dogs are allowed throughout the Forest Park. Dogs must be on a lead and under direct control at all times within Stevensons Falls Camping Area and Dando’s Camping Areas. Both these campgrounds have a great deal to offer.

The campground at Stevenson Falls is split between tent sites and camper trailer etc sites. The toilet is wheelchair friendly and handy to both sides. There is lots of walking available here, including the trek to the falls. Turn off C119 near Barramunga, to follow a 5km windy dirt road through beautiful forest.

Dando’s Campground is stunningly beautiful. The grounds are large and roomy enough for everyone to have space. The fireplaces are well built, with picnic tables dotted around the place.

Camping with dogs is allowed at Johanna Beach, which is in the National Park. Find it 15km south of Lavers Hill, taking Red Johanna Road off the B100. When you arrive at Johanna Beach, follow the dirt road. You will find pockets of campsites along the way, until you reach the toilets. The beach here is fantastic. The campground is nestled behind the dunes.

comments

If you are holidaying in Victoria and visiting some of its most beautiful sights you may be wondering about dog-friendly walks on the Great Ocean Road.

When it comes to beautiful landscapes few places can rival the Twelve Apostles but many people often ask, ‘Where can I walk my dog on the Great Ocean Road?’

Although dogs are not officially allowed at many famous spots on the Great Ocean Road including Gibson Steps or Loch Ard Gorge, there are some dog-friendly walks on the Great Ocean Road where your best mate can join you to enjoy the spectacular scenery. Here are some of them.

📸  @aussie.sedona

Otway Ranges Walks

If you enjoy the burble of a waterfall, you can take your pooch to Beauchamp Falls and Stevenson Falls.

Waterfalls are said to have health benefits due to the negative ions that are emitted by them, these increase our serotonin levels, which improves our mood.

Beauchamp Falls Walk is located at Aire Valley Road, Beech Forest.

This 20-metre waterfall is worth the walk and dogs can join owners provided they are leashed. Soak up the tranquillity of nature on the three-kilometre path, which is an hour’s walk return, and described as moderate to difficult. This is a free camping area where pets are allowed with conditions. The ground can fit up to 15 sites and has long drop toilets and picnic tables.

Located south-west of Melbourne, this next walk is easier on your legs and can be reached in around a 2.5 hr drive from the CBD.

Stevensons Falls Reserve Walk can be found off the Upper Gellibrand Road, near Barramunga, and has a well-maintained track to the beautiful waterfall. It is 1.5km and takes 1 hour return. You can also free camp here with your pet. The campsites have lots of shade, toilets and close access to Stevensons falls. No Bookings required.

Can you take dogs to the otways?

This next walk can be accessed behind Marengo Holiday Park where you can catch scenic water views with your pooch, it’s 3.2km and takes approximately 40 minutes one-way. The Great Ocean Walk is a gravel footpath that runs alongside the Great Ocean Road.

*Please note that dogs are not permitted in the Great Otway National Park, with the exception of Johanna Beach (beach area & the campground), where they must be on a leash at all times

Heading further East

Timboon to Camperdown ‘Coast to Crater’ Rail Trail (Timboon 17km North of Port. Campbell). Dogs are permitted on leashes along the entire 34km rail trail.

The Bay of Martyrs Coastal Walk in Peterborough allows dogs on a leash on one end of the path.

This walking trail begins at the Peterborough Golf Course and follows the path to Halladale Point.

Source: www.visitapollobay.com

Read next: Pet-Friendly Accommodation on the Great Ocean Road

Can you take dogs to the otways?
Can you take dogs to the otways?

Otways Adventures

Otways Accommodation

With so many fantastic walks, the Otways is a great place to visit with your canine companion – and you can forget expensive kennels and separation anxiety because we have a list of dog friendly accommodation in the Otways ready for you. Once you’re on that page you can apply Advanced Filters according to specific location and other needs. Run by Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism, this site is dedicated exclusively to the Otways region, profiling accommodation and other activities in the district.

Can you take dogs to the otways?

Dog Adventures around the Otways

Walkers of almost any ability can trek around the Otways – which is why travelling with your pet is such a great option. Together you can discover the Great Ocean Walk, waterfalls, lush forests, cliff-top walks, heritage and coastal trails. Whether you go inland or hug the rugged coast, the Otways is a place for adventure for you and your pooch. And a list of dog friendly accommodation in the Otways is as easy as visiting our ‘Where to stay’ page.

Find dog friendly accommodation

Explore More Otways Adventures

Can you take dogs to the otways?

Otway National Park Tree Top Walk Melbourne

Explore

Discover The Region

Explore everything about a region by selecting a location.

Destination Times

Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Great Ocean Road region the Wadawurrung, Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging. We recognise and respect their unique cultural heritage and the connection to their traditional lands. We commit to building genuine and lasting partnerships that recognise, embrace and support the spirit of reconciliation, working towards self-determination, equity of outcomes and an equal voice for Australia’s first people.

Is otways dog friendly?

Dogs are not permitted in the Great Otway National Park, with the exception of Johanna Beach (beach area & campground), Johanna Beach western section between Johanna River and western bluff.

Can I take my dog to the 12 apostles?

Domestic dogs are strictly prohibited in all areas of Port Campbell National Park, this includes the 12 Apostles. You may keep your dog in the car when in transit or in car parks. It is not cool to leave dogs in hot cars.

Is the Great Ocean Walk dog friendly?

The Great Ocean Walk is a gravel footpath that runs alongside the Great Ocean Road. Timboon to Camperdown 'Coast to Crater' Rail Trail (Timboon 17km North of Port. Campbell). Dogs are permitted on leashes along the entire 34km rail trail.

Can dogs go to Otway Fly?

2.6 There is to be no smoking on the premise at any time. 2.7 No dogs are allowed past the Visitors Centre.