The first stage of the redevelopment of Pialba Caravan Park in Hervey Bay has been completed, introducing updated visitor facilities, expanded powered sites, and new dog-friendly accommodation as part of a broader plan by the Fraser Coast Regional Council to modernize the coastal campground.
The western half of the park has now reopened to guests following the completion of the initial phase, while construction on the eastern half is scheduled to begin later in March with completion targeted before Christmas this year, weather permitting.
Fraser Coast Regional Council Major Projects spokesperson Cr Daniel Sanderson said the redevelopment is intended to strengthen the region’s tourism offering and support local businesses connected to the visitor economy.
“This project is about creating a modern beachfront park that attracts visitors, supports tourism operators and delivers benefits for the wider community,” he said.
“Being able to bring your dog on holiday is important to many families, so this upgrade opens the park to more visitors while still delivering a high-quality beachfront experience.”
The completed first stage includes larger powered caravan and RV sites, a new manager’s building, updated amenities, a camp kitchen, and a barbecue area. The upgrades also introduced a redesigned entry point to improve traffic flow for arriving guests.
According to the council, the park now features a new entrance off the Esplanade opposite the Hervey Bay Hotel.
“A new entrance off the Esplanade opposite the Hervey Bay Hotel will make arrivals easier and safer, with an internal check-in bay to reduce congestion on surrounding roads,” Cr Sanderson said.
The previous entrance near WetSide Water Park has been closed to public access and will now function solely as an emergency exit. Visitors are notified of the new access arrangements when booking, and signage has been installed to direct traffic to the updated entry point.
The redevelopment is being delivered in stages to allow parts of the campground to remain operational during construction. Cr Sanderson said the phased approach enables travelers to use the upgraded facilities while work continues on the remainder of the property.
“This project focuses on making the park easier to use, more comfortable to stay in and ready to meet the needs of modern travellers,” he said in a news release.
For campground and RV park operators, the project reflects several broader trends currently shaping outdoor hospitality developments. Larger powered sites are increasingly being introduced to accommodate modern caravans and motorhomes, which have grown in size over the past decade.
Infrastructure improvements such as dedicated check-in bays and redesigned traffic circulation are also being used by operators to reduce congestion during peak arrival periods.
The addition of dog-friendly accommodations aligns with a wider shift in traveler preferences, as many guests now expect pet-inclusive policies when booking outdoor stays.
Industry professionals have also noted that amenities such as camp kitchens and communal outdoor spaces continue to play a role in improving guest satisfaction and extending average lengths of stay.
Once the second phase of construction begins later this month, work will focus on the eastern portion of the park, completing the full redevelopment ahead of the anticipated summer travel season if construction timelines remain on schedule.