If you’ve ever settled into your favourite camping chair with a cold drink, only to find your dog has claimed it as their own, you’re not alone.
Countless Australian campers have experienced the joy of watching their beloved pet sprawl across their seat, looking far too comfortable to disturb. It’s a scene that plays out at campgrounds across the country—from the Lockyer Valley to the coast—and while it’s endearing, it often leaves you standing or sitting on the ground.
The solution? Give your furry companion their very own camping chair or elevated cot. Not only will this save your seat from being perpetually occupied, but it also ensures your dog enjoys the same comfort and support you do during your outdoor adventures.
Why Your Dog Needs a Camping Chair or Elevated Cot
Comfort & Support for Outdoor Adventures
Just like you appreciate a comfortable seat after a day of hiking or exploring, your dog deserves the same level of comfort at the campsite. Dogs of all sizes can benefit from proper support, especially older pets or those with joint issues. A dedicated camping chair or elevated cot provides a cushioned, supportive surface that’s far more comfortable than lying directly on hard, uneven ground. This becomes particularly important during extended camping trips where your dog needs quality rest to recover from daily activities.
Keeping Dogs Off Damp Ground & Clean
One of the primary benefits of an elevated dog chair or cot is keeping your pet off damp, muddy, or cold ground. Morning dew, unexpected rain showers, and moisture from nearby creeks or rivers can make ground surfaces uncomfortable and potentially harmful to your dog’s health. An elevated surface ensures better air circulation underneath, helping your dog stay dry and warm throughout the night. This also means less dirt and mud tracked into your caravan, tent, or cabin—a bonus that makes cleanup considerably easier.
Portability & Easy Setup at Campsites
Modern dog camping furniture is designed with portability in mind. Most chairs and cots fold down compactly and come with carry bags, making them easy to transport alongside your other camping gear. Quick setup means you can have your dog’s rest area ready within minutes of arriving at your campsite, whether you’re staying at a dog-friendly campground near Brisbane or venturing further into the Queensland countryside. This convenience ensures your pet has a consistent, comfortable resting spot no matter where your adventures take you.
Best Dog Camping Chairs and Cots in Brisbane & Australian Stores
Wanderer Pets Luxe Padded Dog Chair – Plush Outdoor Dog Chair
For those seeking premium comfort for their four-legged companion, the Wanderer Pets Luxe Padded Dog Chair stands out as a top choice. This luxurious padded chair features supportive armrests and is constructed with a strong steel frame capable of handling up to 130 kg. This impressive load capacity makes it ideal for larger dog breeds or even situations where multiple smaller pets want to share the space. The plush padding provides exceptional comfort, and the elevated design keeps your dog off the ground while maintaining excellent airflow.
Available from: BCF Australia, both online and in-store locations
Charlie’s Butterfly Portable Folding Outdoor Pet Chair – Classic Camping Pet Seat
The Charlie’s Butterfly Portable Folding Outdoor Pet Chair offers an excellent balance of durability and convenience. Its lightweight construction doesn’t compromise on strength, featuring a durable metal frame paired with premium oxford fabric that withstands outdoor conditions. The foldable design means it packs down easily for transport, and setup at your campsite takes mere seconds. The elevated mesh centre provides comfort while allowing dirt and debris to fall through, keeping your dog’s resting area cleaner.
Available from: Charlie’s Pet Products, Big W, and Harvey Norman
Quick Fold Dog Sofa – The Pet Lounger (Sharp 4×4) – Comfortable Fold‑Down Sofa Chair
If your dog appreciates a bit of luxury at the campsite, the Quick Fold Dog Sofa from Sharp 4×4 delivers sofa-style comfort in a camping-friendly format. This outdoor dog sofa features a quick-fold mechanism for easy setup and takedown, along with a removable padded mattress that can be cleaned separately. The sturdy steel frame ensures stability even for enthusiastic dogs, and the sofa design provides extra lounging space compared to traditional camping chairs.
Available from: Sharp 4×4 online store
Best Elevated Dog Cots & Raised Camping Beds
Petstock Raised Outdoor Dog Bed
The Petstock Raised Outdoor Dog Bed offers a practical, versatile solution for camping adventures. Its elevated mesh design provides excellent support while keeping dogs comfortably off the ground. The mesh surface promotes superior airflow, which is particularly beneficial during Queensland’s warmer months, helping your dog stay cool and comfortable. The raised design also prevents moisture from seeping through, making it perfect for overnight camping trips where ground conditions can change.
This bed works equally well at campsites and in your backyard, giving you year-round value for your investment. The durable construction withstands regular outdoor use, and the simple design means there are fewer components to worry about during setup.
Available from: Petstock Australia stores
Big W Elevated & Foldable Dog Cots
For budget-conscious campers who don’t want to compromise on their dog’s comfort, Big W offers several elevated and foldable dog cot options. These raised cots typically feature mesh and fleece layers that provide simple yet effective outdoor comfort. The combination of materials offers both support and softness, while the elevated design keeps your pet off damp or uneven ground.
The foldable nature of these cots makes them particularly appealing for campers with limited storage space. They’re lightweight enough to carry easily but sturdy enough to provide reliable support throughout your camping trip.
Available from: Big W
How to Choose the Right Dog Camping Chair or Cot
Material & Durability for Outdoor Conditions
When selecting camping furniture for your dog, prioritise materials that can withstand Australian outdoor conditions. Look for chairs and cots with:
- Rust-resistant frames: Powder-coated steel or aluminium frames resist corrosion from moisture and humidity
- UV-resistant fabrics: Oxford cloth, ripstop nylon, or mesh materials that won’t degrade quickly under Queensland’s intense sun
- Water-resistant or quick-drying materials: Essential for coping with morning dew, unexpected rain, or proximity to water sources
- Reinforced stitching: Double or triple-stitched seams that handle the stress of active dogs jumping on and off
Consider how your dog behaves—dogs who love to dig or scratch may need more durable fabric options, while calmer pets might be fine with lighter-weight materials.
Portability & Foldability
The best dog camping chair is one you’ll actually bring along on every trip. Assess portability by considering:
- Folded dimensions: Measure your vehicle’s storage space and compare it against the chair’s packed size
- Weight: Lighter options (under 3-4 kg) are easier to carry from car to campsite
- Carry bag or strap: Built-in carry solutions make transportation significantly easier
- Assembly complexity: Look for one-step folding mechanisms or simple assembly requiring no tools
For those planning camping adventures around South East Queensland, portability becomes even more important if you’re hiking to your campsite or traveling with limited vehicle space.
Size, Weight Capacity & Dog Breed Matching
| Dog Size | Recommended Dimensions | Weight Capacity | Suitable Breeds (Examples) |
| Small (up to 10 kg) | 50 x 40 cm | 15-25 kg | Chihuahua, Maltese, Miniature Dachshund |
| Medium (10-25 kg) | 70 x 50 cm | 30-50 kg | Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, Cattle Dog |
| Large (25-45 kg) | 90 x 60 cm | 60-80 kg | Labrador, Golden Retriever, Border Collie |
| Extra Large (45+ kg) | 110 x 75 cm | 100+ kg | German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Great Dane |
Always choose a chair or cot slightly larger than your dog’s resting size to ensure they can stretch out comfortably. Measure your dog from nose to tail while they’re lying down, then add 10-15 cm for optimal comfort.
Tips for Camping With Your Dog
Setting Up a Comfortable Rest Zone
Creating the perfect rest zone for your dog at your campsite involves more than just placing down a chair or cot. Position your dog’s furniture in a shaded area during warmer months, or in a spot that catches morning sun during cooler seasons. Ensure the surface beneath is relatively level to prevent the chair from tipping or sliding.
Consider proximity to your own sleeping area—most dogs prefer being close to their owners, especially in unfamiliar environments. Place the chair or cot near your caravan, tent, or cabin entrance so your dog feels secure while still having their own dedicated space.
Add familiar items like your dog’s regular blanket or a favourite toy to help them settle in more quickly. This is particularly important for dogs who haven’t camped before or those who might feel anxious in new surroundings.
Safety Tips — Heat, Bugs & Terrain
Queensland’s climate presents unique challenges when camping with dogs. During summer months, always ensure your dog has access to shade and fresh water. Check the metal components of chairs and cots before allowing your dog to use them—metal frames can become extremely hot in direct sunlight and potentially burn paw pads.
Heat management:
- Set up near natural shade or create shade with a tarp
- Provide a cooling mat or wet towel for especially hot days
- Never leave your dog unattended in direct sunlight
Bug protection:
- Apply pet-safe insect repellent before settling in for the evening
- Consider a mesh cover or netting if camping in mosquito-prone areas
- Check for ticks daily, especially after walks through bushland
Terrain awareness:
- Clear the area around your dog’s chair of sharp rocks, sticks, or debris
- Watch for ground-dwelling insects like ants or spiders
- Keep chairs away from fire pits or cooking areas
Don’t forget to pack essential dog camping gear to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort throughout your trip.
Accessories to Pair With Camping Chairs & Cots
Enhance your dog’s camping experience with these complementary accessories:
Portable water bowls: Collapsible silicone bowls take up minimal space and ensure your dog stays hydrated near their rest area.
Stake-out cables or tethers: When you need your dog to stay near their chair while you prepare meals or set up camp, a secure tether system provides freedom of movement within a safe boundary.
Outdoor blankets: Extra padding on cooler nights or a familiar-smelling blanket helps your dog settle into their camping chair more comfortably.
LED collar lights or clip-on lights: Essential for nighttime visibility and safety when your dog moves around the campsite after dark.
Portable food and water stations: Elevated feeding bowls that match the height of your dog’s chair create a cohesive rest and dining area.
Cooling vests or mats: Particularly useful for camping during Queensland’s summer months, these help regulate your dog’s temperature while they relax on their chair.
Camping With Your Dog at Murphys Creek Escape
Murphys Creek Escape offers the ideal setting for pet-friendly camping experiences where your dog can enjoy outdoor adventures without compromising on comfort.
Our dog-friendly accommodations provide the perfect base for exploring the beautiful Lockyer Valley region with your four-legged companion. Imagine your dog relaxing on their camping chair beside your caravan or cabin, surrounded by the natural beauty of Queensland’s countryside. With spacious sites and a pet-friendly environment, you’ll have plenty of room to set up your dog’s outdoor furniture and create a comfortable home-away-from-home.
Whether you’re bringing a luxury padded chair for your pampered pooch or a simple elevated cot for your adventurous companion, our park provides the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories. The combination of outdoor adventure and comfortable amenities means both you and your dog can truly relax and recharge.
Ready to give your dog the camping adventure they deserve? Pack up their new camping chair or elevated cot and head to Murphys Creek Escape for an unforgettable pet-friendly getaway.
Our beautiful Lockyer Valley location offers the perfect balance of nature and comfort, with plenty of space for your furry friend to explore and relax. Browse our accommodation options and rates and book your next dog-friendly camping trip today. Your dog’s camping chair awaits—and this time, they won’t have to steal yours!
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Jared Jeffery, the digital marketing specialist at Murphys Creek Escape, is a seasoned professional in the field of SEO-driven marketing. With over 10+ years of experience, he possesses a well-rounded background in the digital realm. Throughout his career, Jared has worked in agencies specializing in Travel, Finance, and Event Planning, lending his expertise to major projects involving prominent hotel chains. In addition, he has contributed his writing skills to the creation of numerous articles spanning across a wide range of industries. With his wealth of knowledge and extensive experience, Jared brings a valuable skill set to the table.