Exploring Canine-Compatible Retreats: Five Campsites in Western Cape - Cape Town Today
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

Exploring Canine-Compatible Retreats: Five Campsites in Western Cape

3 mins read
dog-friendly camping

Discover the best pet-friendly campsites in the Western Cape, where you and your furry friend can embark on a delightful journey together. From the wildlife wonderland of Beaverlac to the vineyard vacation of Rivierzicht River Resort, there’s something for everyone. Just remember to check each site’s dog policies before booking and ensure your pet is well-behaved and respectful of the environment and wildlife.

Exploring Canine-Compatible Retreats: Five Campsites in Western Cape

Discover five pet-friendly campsites in the Western Cape that offer a delightful journey for both pet owners and their furry friends. From the secluded retreat of Beaverlac, bursting with diverse wildlife, to the vineyard vacation of Rivierzicht River Resort, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to check each site’s dog policies before booking.

For the discerning explorer who never leaves their four-legged friend behind, seeking out a campground that embraces pets can be an arduous task. The Western Cape, with its expansive natural landscape, offers an assortment of campsites that accommodate dogs, providing not merely lodging but a delightful journey for both pet owners and their furry friends.

Beaverlac: An Abode for Wildlife

Tucked away in the splendor of the Olifants River Mountains above Porterville, our top pick, Beaverlac, spans a massive 5,000-hectare valley. This secluded retreat can comfortably accommodate up to 800 people without feeling dense, particularly during the less busy months.

The abundant, lush spaces provide plenty of areas for your dog and you to wander, while the spacious sites offer a break from urban life. Beaverlac is bustling with diverse wildlife, from the majestic rhebok and nimble klipspringer to the elusive caracal and diminutive honey badger. This biodiversity extends to birds, with magnificent black eagles, jackal buzzards, and colourful sunbirds, making it an ornithologist’s heaven.

Visitors must ensure their dog doesn’t react negatively to wildlife to ensure a serene stay. A nominal fee of R50 per night per dog is charged, allowing a maximum of two dogs per site.

Kleine Paradys: Pocket-Sized Paradise

Situated in the peaceful town of Piketberg, Kleine Paradys offers an array of lodging options, from conventional campsites to full-service caravans and cottages. The camping sanctuary is divided into two sections: Bloekompark and Rivierpark.

Although Bloekompark does not accept dogs, Rivierpark provides a sanctuary for dog owners. The campsites are generously sized and located along the tranquil Berg River. Notably, Rivierpark 2 and Rivierpark 8 are fully enclosed, giving dog owners peace of mind and their canine companions freedom to roam.

Rivierplaas: Riverside Haven

Perched on the banks of the Breede River near Worcester, Rivierplaas is just a short 90-minute drive from Cape Town. This campground is a dream come true for dog lovers, but it requires dogs to get along well with other animals and humans.

Well-behaved dogs that respect the serenity of the campground and the resident creatures are welcome. An additional fee of R150 per dog per booking is charged.

Rivierzicht River Resort: Vineyard Vacation

Nestled amid the lush vineyards and orchards of the Robertson Valley, Rivierzicht Farm offers a variety of activities. Whether you prefer fishing and canoeing or bird watching, swimming, hiking, or horse riding, this riverside resort has something for everyone.

Dogs are welcome at this resort, but they must be well-behaved, particularly if you choose cabin accommodation. It’s essential to keep pets off beds and furniture to uphold cleanliness and hygiene.

Rondeberg Resort: Award-Winning Escape

Lastly, the Rondeberg Resort, an award-winning destination along the N7 Cape Namibia Highway, is an ideal escape for adventurers.

Catering to both traditional campers and luxury-loving glampers, a wealth of activities can satisfy all tastes. Dogs are welcome at Rondeberg, provided that pet owners supervise their pets and clean up after them.

To conclude, the Western Cape boasts a selection of dog-friendly campsites, each with its distinctive charm and variety of activities. So, gather your camping essentials and leash, and set off on an exploration with your faithful companion.

1. What is the top pick for a pet-friendly campsite in Western Cape?

Beaverlac is the top pick for a pet-friendly campsite in Western Cape. It is situated in the Olifants River Mountains and offers a vast valley spanning 5,000 hectares, with abundant wildlife and spacious sites.

2. Are dogs allowed at Kleine Paradys?

Dogs are allowed at Kleine Paradys, but only in the Rivierpark section. The campsites in this section are located along the Berg River, and some are fully enclosed, giving dog owners peace of mind and their canine companions freedom to roam.

3. What is the additional fee charged for dogs at Rivierplaas?

An additional fee of R150 per dog per booking is charged at Rivierplaas. Dogs must also get along well with other animals and humans and respect the serenity of the campground.

4. What is important to keep in mind when bringing a dog to Rivierzicht River Resort?

When bringing a dog to Rivierzicht River Resort, it is essential to keep pets off beds and furniture to uphold cleanliness and hygiene.

5. Are dogs allowed at Rondeberg Resort?

Dogs are allowed at Rondeberg Resort, but pet owners must supervise their pets and clean up after them.

6. How many dogs are allowed per site at Beaverlac?

A maximum of two dogs per site are allowed at Beaverlac, and a nominal fee of R50 per night per dog is charged. Visitors must ensure their dog doesn’t react negatively to wildlife to ensure a serene stay.

Previous Story

An Extraordinary Occasion in Cape Town’s Civic Centre

Next Story

Media24’s Potential Restructuring: The Future of Print Media in South Africa

Latest from Blog

The Rise of Vaping Among South African Teenagers

Vaping is quickly becoming a popular habit among South African teenagers, drawn by sweet fruity flavors, flashy packaging, and the buzz on social media. Many teens vape to fit in with friends, feel cool and rebellious, or to escape stress and anxiety. However, what seems like harmless fun can quickly turn into addiction, affecting their health and wellbeing. Despite the risks, vaping is often misunderstood, making it harder for families and schools to stop this growing trend. It’s a serious challenge that needs everyone—parents, teachers, and leaders—to work together to protect young people’s futures.

South African Agriculture and the Changing Winds of Trade

Since 2000, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has helped South African farmers sell fruits like avocados, wine, and citrus to the United States without paying extra taxes. This chance boosted farming communities, especially small farmers and women, by opening up new markets and encouraging growth. But recent U.S. tariffs threaten these gains, making it harder for farmers to compete and putting many livelihoods at risk. Still, South African farmers remain strong and hopeful, working hard to face these new challenges and keep their communities alive.

Trapped Abroad: Ashley Oosthuizen’s Journey Through Thailand’s Legal Labyrinth

Ashley Oosthuizen, a young South African woman, went to Thailand chasing her dreams but ended up trapped in a nightmare. After unknowingly signing for a package with illegal drugs, she was arrested and sentenced to over 13 years in prison, despite being innocent. Her mother moved to Thailand to fight for her, sharing Ashley’s story with the world and gaining support. Even when the real criminal confessed, the Thai courts kept Ashley behind bars. Her story is a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change and the risks travelers face in foreign countries.

Shadows Along the Hennops: Three SAPS Officers Vanish and a River Gives Up Its Secrets

In April 2025, three South African police officers disappeared during a trip and were later found dead near the Hennops River, along with two others. Their white car vanished into the river’s dark, swirling waters, hiding clues and sparking a deep mystery. Families and the public mourned, demanding answers amid fears of foul play. The quiet river, once peaceful, now holds heavy secrets and reminds the nation of the dangers police face and the urgent need for justice.

Cape Town’s Boatbuilding: Crafting a Legacy on the Waterfront

Cape Town’s boatbuilding industry is a shining example of skill and tradition mixed with new technology. It creates beautiful, strong boats that are loved worldwide and supports thousands of jobs in the city. But now, new tariffs on exports, especially to the US, threaten this important work and the people who depend on it. Despite these challenges, boatbuilders, city leaders, and innovators are coming together to protect this proud craft. Their passion and teamwork fuel hope that Cape Town’s boatbuilding legacy will sail on strong into the future.