The Western Cape is a paradise for pet owners who love the outdoors. From the wild rock formations of the Cederberg & the fynbos mountains above Porterville to the farm stays of the Breede River valley & the sweeping scenery of the Overberg, there’s no shortage of great spots to escape with your dog.
This guide rounds up the best 10 pet-friendly campsites in the Western Cape, from rustic wilderness camps & riverside retreats to private nature reserve glamping: all welcoming to pets.
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Key Takeaways:
- Pet conditions vary significantly across the Western Cape’s camping sites: some welcome all dogs without restrictions, while others charge a pet fee, & some may require dogs to be kept on a leash at all times. Always confirm conditions directly with the property before booking.
- The 10 sites in this list cover the full province, from the Cederberg & the West Coast in the north to the Garden Route in the south. Balie’s Gat, Beaverlac, & West Coast Luxury Tents are three standout picks for different kinds of trips.
- Camping in the Western Cape’s wild terrain comes with the unexpected, so always come prepared & apply relevant preventative treatments before heading out with your dog.
- Most sites fill quickly from mid-September through school holidays & long weekends; book as early as possible, particularly for The Storytellers, Rivierzicht & AfriCamps at Stanford Hills.
Table Of Contents
- 10 Best Pet-Friendly Campsites in the Western Cape
- 1. Balie’s Gat Camp & Accommodation
- 2. Kraalskloof
- 3. The Storytellers
- 4. Beaverlac
- 5. Lake Pleasant Holiday Resort
- 6. AfriCamps at Stanford Hills
- 7. AfriCamps at de Pakhuys, Cederberg
- 8. West Coast Luxury Tents
- 9. Fairfield Cottages
- 10. Rivierzicht River Resort
- Final Thoughts on the Best Sites for Pet-friendly Camping in the Western Cape
10 Best Pet-Friendly Campsites in the Western Cape
The Western Cape’s pet-friendly campsites stretch from the wild Cederberg & Clanwilliam in the north to the Breede River valley, the Overberg & the Garden Route in the south: all within reach of Cape Town, all surrounded by natural beauty.
From rustic fynbos wilderness camps & riverside retreats on the Breede River to private nature reserve glamping & working farm stays, there’s something here for every nature lover & their dog.
All sites on this list are pet-friendly, but conditions vary. Some dog-friendly campsites require pets on a leash, while others allow more freedom. Always confirm before you book.
1. Balie's Gat Camp & Accommodation
Location: Theerivier, Western Cape
Balie’s Gat Camp & Accommodation sits along the banks of the beautiful Breede River in Theerivier, in the heart of a breathtaking fruit farm landscape where pear farms & working orchards stretch as far as the eye can see. The camp’s authentic working farm character & classic riverside campsites have earned it a loyal following among families, couples & groups who make the trip back year after year.
Dogs are welcome at Balie’s Gat, making it a natural choice for pet owners looking for a proper riverside escape with their four-legged companions in tow. The open farm surroundings give dogs & their owners room to breathe, & the unhurried pace of the valley makes it easy to see why so many guests keep coming back.
Find out more & book your stay at the Balie’s Gat website.
What to Expect
- Private campsites available; prior arrangement required for large groups or exclusive access to certain areas
- Farm animals on the property
- Private ablutions at select sites; communal ablutions also on site with hot water showers & flushing toilets
- Braai facilities at each camping spot; central braai area also available; farm shop on site for basics
- Activities include fishing, swimming & outdoor recreation along the river; day speed boating is also possible
- Dogs welcome; big dogs & small dogs both catered for; all well-behaved dogs must remain under control; confirm pet conditions at time of booking
Fees & Permits
- Starting at approximately R180 per person per night. Rates are subject to change depending on the time of the year & the campsite. See the Balie’s Gat website or LekkeSlaap for rates.
- Full upfront payment or a deposit may be required, depending on when you book
- Pets are welcome under specific conditions: only small to medium-sized dogs are allowed, & no dogs are permitted in the self-catering wooden cabins or secluded tents. Fees for dogs usually start at R35 per dog per night.
- Prior arrangement required for exclusive access or large group bookings
Good to Know
- Approximately 225km from Cape Town, allow around 3 hours for the drive
- Popular over school holidays & long weekends; book well in advance
- Eureka Farm & other well-known farm stays are nearby in the valley
- Well-suited to the whole family, including well-behaved dogs
2. Kraalskloof
Location: Slanghoek Mountains, Breedekloof, Rawsonville, Western Cape
Kraalskloof sits high in the Slanghoek Mountains above the Breedekloof, where a working farm dam serves as the centrepiece of one of the Western Cape’s most striking private campsites. The views stretch 360 degrees across the valley all the way to Worcester, & the combination of mountain air, wood-fired hot tubs & night skies thick with stars makes it the kind of place that’s hard to leave. There are three exclusive-use campsites, each booked privately for a single group. This means you get the full campsite setting to yourself, without sharing the space with other campers.
Pets are explicitly welcome at Kraalskloof, making it a natural fit for pet owners after a proper off-grid escape with space, scenery & real privacy. The Breedekloof’s wine estates, gin distilleries & farm stalls are all within easy reach for those who want to venture out.
Plan your stay & book direct at the Kraalskloof website.
What to Expect
- Three exclusive-use private campsites, each booked per group; no shared facilities with other guests
- Kraalskloof One & Two each feature 2 solar-lit shower rooms with toilets, a kitchen area with a gas stove, kettle & fridge, an indoor braai, an outdoor fire pit & 2 wood-fired hot tubs; no electrical connections
- Kraalskloof Three (Boskamp) is a newer bushcamp with 2 bathrooms, a wood-fired geyser, a hot tub, grass, Wi-Fi & limited solar electricity
- A canoe is available for use on the farm dam; hiking & mountain biking trails on & around the farm
- No shade on site; bring a gazebo or sun umbrella
Fees & Permits
- Kraalskloof One & Two: weekends & holidays: R3,076.25 per night (includes 10 people); R138 per additional person per night (up to 25); R23 per pet per night; all prices exclude VAT
- Kraalskloof One & Two: weekdays (outside school holidays): R1,845.75 per night (includes 6 people); R138 per additional person; 40% weekday discount for 2+ nights; 20% winter discount in June, July & August; all prices exclude VAT
- Kraalskloof Three: weekends R2,000 per night (includes 10 people), R150 per additional person; weekdays R1,200 per night (includes 6 people), R100 per additional person; all prices exclude VAT
- Minimum 2-night stay on weekends; minimum 3 nights on holidays & long weekends
- Bookings can be rescheduled with 30 days’ notice; not refundable
Good to Know
- Approximately 1.5 hours from Cape Town via the N1 through Paarl & into the Breedekloof
- Access via 1km of gravel road; suitable for high-clearance vehicles (bakkie or SUV); not suitable for standard caravans
- Goudini Hot Springs is nearby for a day soak; the Breedekloof wine route & local gin distilleries are within easy reach
3. The Storytellers
Location: Clanwilliam, Western Cape
The Storytellers is an intimate, character-filled glamping spot in the Clanwilliam area, ideally positioned for exploring the Biedouw Valley & the surrounding Cederberg landscape. It sits near the Bulshoek Dam, which lends the camp a scenic backdrop, & its social, welcoming atmosphere makes it a natural gathering point for outdoor enthusiasts heading into the Cederberg. Other dogs are a common sight, which tells you everything you need to know about how pet owners are received here.
Dogs are welcome at The Storytellers, making it a great fit for pet owners exploring the Western Cape’s northern reaches. It’s a charming, no-fuss campsite that punches well above its weight when it comes to character & location.
Check availability & plan your stay at the Storytellers website or LekkeSlaap.
What to Expect
- Communal ablutions with hot water showers & flushing toilets
- Braai facilities at each camping spot; wood is available for purchase on site
- Small camp shop for basic supplies
- Dogs are welcome, but you should confirm specific pet conditions when booking
Fees & Permits
- Two glamping units. A minimum stay of 2 nights is required.
- Dassie Den: R1350 per night, accommodates 6 people.
- Tortoise Terrace: R1350 per night, accommodates 5 people.
- Check the latest pricing & book on their website or LekkeSlaap.
Good to Know
- Approximately 3 hours from Cape Town via the N1 through Paarl
- The wildflower season from mid-September is the peak period; book as early as possible for this window
- Clanwilliam town is close by for fuel, supplies & restaurants
- Other campers tend to be outdoor enthusiasts & Cederberg regulars; a relaxed, sociable vibe throughout the camp
- Ideally suited to hikers & families travelling with well-behaved dogs
4. Beaverlac
Location: Dasklip Road & Pass, off R365, Porterville, Western Cape
Tucked into the Groot Winterhoek mountains above Porterville, Beaverlac is one of the Western Cape’s most celebrated pet-friendly camping destinations. The drive up the Dasklip Pass is an adventure in itself, winding through breathtaking mountain scenery before opening up to a landscape of untouched fynbos & natural pools fed by cold, clear mountain streams.
Dogs are welcome at Beaverlac, making it a perennial favourite with nature lovers who want their pets along for the experience. Well-behaved dogs can explore hiking trails that weave through ancient fynbos rich in indigenous plant species, while the natural pools provide a refreshing dip for two & four-legged visitors alike. There are also communal ablutions with hot water showers & flushing toilets, & braai facilities.
Visit the Beaverlac website for more information, to check availability, or to make a booking.
What to Expect
- Natural pools formed by mountain streams: a highlight for both pets & their owners, especially in summer
- Communal ablutions with hot water showers & flushing toilets, shared across all camping sites
- Braai facilities at each camping spot; firewood available for purchase on site
- Hiking trails through untouched fynbos, rich in indigenous plant species unique to the Western Cape
- No electricity at standard camping sites; bring a gas lamp or power bank
- Dogs welcome on leash; small dogs & large dogs both catered for; all pets must remain under control at all times
- Extremely popular & fills from mid-September; book well ahead for school holidays & long weekends
Fees & Permits
- There is an R40 vehicle entrance fee, plus R90 per night for adults or R60 per night for kids (aged 3-17), & a charge of R50 per dog per night. Current rates are available on the Beaverlac website.
- A deposit is required at the time of booking to confirm your camping spot
Good to Know
- Approximately 2 hours from Cape Town via the N7 through Paarl & Porterville
- Cell signal is extremely limited on site; come fully prepared & ready to unplug
- Stock up on supplies in Porterville before heading up the Dasklip Pass; there are no shops on site
- Bookings fill quickly from mid-September through school holidays & over long weekends; book as early as possible
- Ideally suited to hikers & families travelling with well-behaved dogs
5. Lake Pleasant Holiday Resort
Location: Groenvlei, Sedgefield, Garden Route, Western Cape
Lake Pleasant Holiday Resort is a well-established destination on the shores of Groenvlei near Sedgefield, & one of the Garden Route’s most popular pet-friendly spots. Rolling lawns run all the way down to the water’s edge, setting the tone for a stay that’s as scenic as it is relaxed. With camping stands, self-catering chalets & resort units all on offer, there’s something here for families, couples & groups of all sizes.
Dogs are welcome at Lake Pleasant, & the generous resort grounds give them plenty of space to stretch their legs. The Knysna area is on the doorstep, making it an easy base for a few nights of exploration along one of South Africa’s most beloved stretches of coastline.
For more information, availability & bookings, visit the Lake Pleasant Resort website.
What to Expect
- The camping stands are expansive & equipped with power points; communal ablutions include hot water showers & flushing toilets.
- Braai facilities are provided on site; a central braai area is also available for shared use.
- Swimming, water sports & birdwatching are all available on the lake.
- Private functions can be accommodated by prior arrangement.
- Small dogs only; by prior arrangement; not accepted during peak holiday seasons. Contact the resort directly to confirm before booking.
Fees & Permits
- Low season rates start at R450 per site for 2 people; peak season (Christmas school holidays) from R1,300 per site. See the Lake Pleasant Resort website for current rates
- A 50% deposit is required immediately to confirm a booking; no refund if cancelled within 60 days of arrival
- Small dogs by prior arrangement only; not permitted during peak season — confirm directly with the resort before booking
Good to Know
- Lake Pleasant is approximately 5.5 hours from Cape Town via the N2.
- The resort is popular over school holidays & during peak Garden Route season, so book well in advance to avoid disappointment.
- It’s well-placed as a dog-friendly road trip stop for pet owners travelling the Garden Route.
6. AfriCamps at Stanford Hills
Location: Stanford Hills Estate, Stanford, Overberg District, Western Cape | africamps.co.za
AfriCamps at Stanford Hills offers premium glamping on a boutique wine estate in Stanford, in the heart of the Overberg. Set against the towering Riviersonderend Mountains, the property boasts sweeping vineyards rolling across the grounds & the celebrated wine tasting of the Hemel-en-Aarde & Walker Bay wine valley within easy reach. The natural beauty of the surrounding Overberg farmland is exceptional, & the picture-perfect serenity of the setting is the reason guests keep returning.
The atmosphere here is romantic yet genuinely dog-friendly, making it a rare find for those who want a proper glamping escape in the Overberg without leaving their pets behind. With Stanford village & the Hermanus coastline just a short drive away, there’s plenty to explore beyond the estate itself.
Explore availability & plan your stay on the AfriCamps website or LekkeSlaap.
What to Expect
- Luxury wooden cabins & canvas tents are available on the property; each features an outdoor deck, comfortable interiors & fairy lights.
- Braai facilities, private bathrooms, fully equipped kitchens, & a wood-fired hot tub.
- Guests enjoy exclusive access to the estate grounds.
- All pets must be well-behaved & under control at all times; confirm specific conditions at time of booking via prior arrangement.
Fees & Permits
- Starting from around R1750-R2000 per night for 2 people. Confirm pricing for their Stanford Hills location on their website or on LekkeSlaap. R250 per stay per dog.
Good to Know
- AfriCamps at Stanford Hills is approximately 2 hours from Cape Town.
- It’s ideal for couples & families looking for an upmarket getaway where their dogs are genuinely welcome.
7. AfriCamps at de Pakhuys, Cederberg
Location: De Pakhuis Pass, Cederberg, Clanwilliam, Western Cape | africamps.co.za
AfriCamps at de Pakhuys sits on De Pakhuis Pass in the wild heart of the Cederberg, where prehistoric & towering rock formations, majestic canyons & wide skies combine to create an atmosphere that feels genuinely otherworldly. Few camping destinations anywhere can match the scale & drama of the surrounding landscape, & this is the Cederberg in all its rugged majesty.
The surrounding terrain is home to remarkable biodiversity, including the African wild cat & even the elusive leopard, alongside the rich fynbos that makes this one of South Africa’s most botanically significant landscapes. For those who want to bring their four-legged companions along for a genuinely wild escape, it’s hard to imagine a more fitting destination in the Western Cape.
To book or find out more, visit the AfriCamps website or LekkeSlaap.
What to Expect
- Luxury tents & cabins are equipped with private ablutions, hot water, braai facilities & power points.
- Outstanding hiking trails lead directly from camp through wild terrain & sweeping mountain scenery.
- An indigenous garden & natural surroundings add to the sense of complete immersion in the wilderness.
- Pets must be well-behaved & conditions apply given the remote terrain.
Fees & Permits
- Starting from R1590 per night for 2 people. Check the latest pricing on AfriCamps’ De Pakhuys Cederberg page or on LekkeSlaap. R250 per stay per dog.
Good to Know
- AfriCamps at de Pakhuys is approximately 3 hours from Cape Town via the N7.
- It’s ideally suited to hikers, wildlife enthusiasts & dog owners looking to explore the wilder corners of the Western Cape.
8. West Coast Luxury Tents
Location: Fork West Farm, between Elands Bay & Dwarskersbos, Western Cape
West Coast Luxury Tents is a unique coastal glamping destination set on a working farm between Elands Bay & Dwarskersbos, where luxury tents are tucked among fynbos-covered dunes just 300m from a 40km stretch of deserted beach. The natural beauty of this stretch of the West Coast is exceptional, & the picture-perfect serenity of the setting is what makes it so hard to leave.
West Coast Luxury Tents is explicitly pet-friendly & welcomes dog owners warmly, making it an ideal off-grid escape for couples who want their four-legged companions along for the experience.
To enquire about availability or make a booking, visit the West Coast Luxury Tents website.
What to Expect
- The tents, Fork North, Middle Fork & Fork South, are fully self-contained; each features electricity, a double bed with fresh bedding, a kitchenette with fridge & microwave, an en-suite bathroom with towels & toiletries, a braai area, a veranda & fairy lights.
- Each tent has a sandy outdoor area where dogs can play freely; guests are asked to follow the property’s pet guidelines to help protect local coastal wildlife.
- A 4×4 is needed to reach the tents, but West Coast Luxury Tents will gladly assist if you’re arriving in a regular car. The hosts also assist with luggage on arrival & a private airstrip is available on-site for guests arriving by light aircraft.
- The property is not well-suited to young children.
Fees & Permits
- Starting from around R1000 – R1300 per night for 2 people. Confirm the latest pricing & availability on the West Coast Luxury Tents website or LekkeSlaap. R50 per pet per day.
Good to Know
- West Coast Luxury Tents is approximately 2 hours from Cape Town via the N7.
- Stock up on supplies before arriving, as the nearest restaurant is 5km away at Draaihoek.
- There is no Wi-Fi & very limited cell reception on site, so you must plan accordingly.
9. Fairfield Cottages
Location: Ceres, Witzenberg Municipality, Western Cape
Fairfield Cottages offers charming cottages & camping in the scenic Ceres valley, surrounded by mountains, fruit orchards & indigenous fynbos that paint the landscape in shades of green & gold depending on the season. The Hex River Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop, the natural beauty of the valley is exceptional, & the feeling of being tucked into the Western Cape’s lesser-explored interior is palpable from the moment you arrive.
Fairfield Cottages is pet-friendly, making it an ideal relaxing camping retreat for couples & small families looking for a genuinely peaceful weekend away from the city. The picture-perfect setting & the unhurried pace of the Ceres valley make it easy to understand why guests keep coming back.
To learn more & book, visit the Fairfield Cottages website.
What to Expect
- Communal ablutions are on site; braai facilities are available & the setup is basic but comfortable & self-catering.
- The property is within a short drive of Ceres town, with easy access to shops, restaurants & cafés.
- Dogs are welcome, but dogs that are not safe off-leash around pets and/or people are not welcome.
Fees & Permits
- R595 per adult per night (minimum 2 people) & R280 per night per child. An additional charge of R100 per visiting pet. Confirm latest pricing on the Fairfield Cottages website or on LekkeSlaap.
Good to Know
- Fairfield Cottages is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from Cape Town via the N1.
10. Rivierzicht River Resort
Location: R60 Rivierzicht Farm, Riverside Road, Robertson, 6705
Rivierzicht River Resort is one of the most-reviewed camping destinations in the Western Cape, & it has earned a loyal following among families & water sports enthusiasts for good reason. Set along the banks of the beautiful Breede River near Robertson, the resort delivers a lively, family-friendly atmosphere where sociable, outdoors-oriented fellow campers are very much part of what makes a stay here memorable.
Day speed boating, swimming & water activities on the river are the main draws, & the summer energy at Rivierzicht is infectious in the best way. The resort is pet-friendly, making it a natural choice for those who want their four-legged companions along for a high-energy break on one of the Western Cape’s most celebrated stretches of river.
Plan your stay & book direct at the Rivierzicht River Resort website.
What to Expect
- Accommodation options include camping stands, chalets & self-catering units, catering to a wide range of group sizes & budgets.
- Communal ablutions are on site with hot water showers & flushing toilets; camping stands include power points & electricity.
- Braai facilities are available at each camping spot; a camp shop is on site & wood is available for purchase.
- Dogs are welcome; please confirm specific pet conditions directly with the resort before booking.
Fees & Permits
- Starting from R350 – R400 per night for 2 people. No pet fee information available. Dogs may stay for free provided management is informed ahead of your stay. Find the latest fees on the camping page on the Riverzicht River Resort website or LekkeSlaap.
Good to Know
- Rivierzicht River Resort is approximately 2 hours from Cape Town via the N1.
- Reviews vary across platforms; it’s worth checking recent Google reviews before making a reservation.
Final Thoughts on the Best Sites for Pet-friendly Camping in the Western Cape
Pet-friendly camping in the Western Cape offers something for every kind of outdoor escape. You can swim in Beaverlac’s natural pools, explore dramatic Cederberg landscapes at AfriCamps at de Pakhuys, unwind beside the Breede River, or enjoy a more private mountain stay at Kraalskloof. From rustic campsites to comfortable glamping retreats, the province has plenty of scenic places where pets are welcome too.
Dog-friendly policies vary across the province, so always confirm before booking. Some sites welcome big dogs & small dogs freely, while others require pets on a leash, charge pet fees, or limit pet access during peak seasons. Other dogs are a common sight at sociable camps like The Storytellers, but conditions can change seasonally. Beaverlac fills from mid-September, so plan well ahead.
Whether you are planning a weekend away, a longer road trip, or everyday life at home with your pet, having pet insurance can offer added peace of mind. MediPet is SA’s leading pet insurance broker, offering comprehensive, genuine & transparent cover. Learn more about our pet insurance plans & get an obligation-free quote today.
As a pet owner in the Western Cape looking to travel with your four-legged best friend, you may also enjoy our guides covering the best dog-friendly hiking trails in Cape Town, dog-friendly beaches in Cape Town, dog-friendly wine farms & pet-friendly accommodation in the Western Cape.
