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.

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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.

Aiden Abrahams is a Cape Town-based journalist who chronicles the city’s shifting political landscape for the Weekend Argus and Daily Maverick. Whether tracking parliamentary debates or tracing the legacy of District Six through his family’s own displacement, he roots every story in the voices that braid the Peninsula’s many cultures. Off deadline you’ll find him pacing the Sea Point promenade, debating Kaapse klopse rhythms with anyone who’ll listen.

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