10 Best Tips for Camping With Dogs
Few things compare to spending time outdoors with your dog by your side. Whether you’re an experienced outdoor enthusiast or just testing the waters of sleeping under the stars, camping with dogs is a special adventure. The fresh air, open space, and break from routine are just as exciting for your pup as they are for you.
That being said, taking your dog camping for the first time—or even the tenth—requires some planning and preparation. From safety essentials to campsite etiquette, here are the best tips for camping with a dog to help you both have a fun and stress-free experience.
Why Go Camping With Dogs?
If you’re a dog parent who enjoys nature, bringing your pup along makes perfect sense. Dogs thrive on new scents, sights, and experiences, and being outside all day is a dream come true for most canines. The physical activity, fresh air, and bonding time are all big benefits for both humans and dogs alike.
Still, camping with dogs isn’t as simple as tossing a leash in the car and heading out. There’s a bit more to consider, especially if you’re taking your dog camping for the first time.
1. Choose the Right Campsite
The first and most important step is selecting a dog-friendly campsite. Not all parks or campgrounds welcome dogs, and those that do often have specific rules. Research in advance to find places that allow pets and check for details like:
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Leash requirements
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Off-leash areas or dog parks
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Dog waste disposal stations
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Nearby hiking trails that permit dogs
Sites labeled as “pet-friendly” don’t always provide the same level of accommodation, so it helps to read reviews from other campers who’ve visited with their dogs.
If you’re new to camping with a dog in a tent, you might want to start with a campground that offers clean facilities, easy trail access, and minimal wildlife activity.
2. Visit the Vet and Update ID Tags
Before you go, schedule a quick visit to the vet—especially if it’s your pup’s first time camping. Make sure all vaccinations are up to date, particularly for rabies and diseases spread by ticks or mosquitoes. If your dog isn’t on flea, tick, and heartworm prevention, it’s time to start.
Also, double-check your dog’s ID tags. They should include your current contact info and ideally, your cell phone number (since you’ll be away from home). A temporary tag with the name of your campground or site number is a smart bonus. Microchipping your dog provides added peace of mind in case they get lost during your trip.
3. Pack Smart: Your Dog’s Camping Essentials
Packing for your dog is just as important as packing for yourself. Here’s a checklist of essentials when taking a dog camping:
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Collar with ID tag and rabies tag
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Leash (and a backup)
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Harness (especially for hikes)
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Food and treats (enough for the whole trip)
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Select one of the best dog bowls for food and water
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Plenty of fresh water
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Dog-safe bug spray
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Canine first-aid kit
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Waste bags
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Towels for drying off
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Your dog’s favorite bed or blanket
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Weather-appropriate gear (coat, boots, cooling vest)
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A few familiar toys for comfort
Optional but helpful items include a portable dog pen or tie-out cable to safely secure your pup while you’re relaxing at the campsite.
4. Practice Tent Time at Home
If you’re camping with a dog in a tent, it’s important to introduce them to the concept beforehand. Some dogs love the tent instantly, while others might feel nervous or confined. Set up the tent in your backyard or living room and let your dog explore it at their own pace. Sit inside with them, play a game, or offer treats so they associate it with positive experiences.
This is especially important if you’re taking your dog camping for the first time. Familiarity with the tent will reduce stress once you're out in the wild.
5. Stick to a Routine (As Much As Possible)
While camping is all about breaking away from the daily grind, dogs feel more comfortable with familiar routines. Stick to regular feeding times, walks, and bedtime rituals as closely as possible. Bring their usual food and a few comfort items from home, like their bed or a well-loved toy, to help them feel secure.
Maintaining some structure will keep your dog calm, make the transition smoother, and ensure they’re better behaved around other campers.
6. Keep Your Dog Safe at the Campsite
Once you arrive, take a moment to survey the campsite for hazards—things like sharp sticks, fire pits, thorny bushes, or discarded food scraps. Always keep your dog leashed or secured in a dog playpen when you are not actively supervising. Even the best-trained dogs can be tempted to chase a squirrel or explore beyond safe boundaries.
Tips for camping with dogs also include being cautious around the campfire. Never leave your pup unattended near open flames, and make sure they have a designated spot a safe distance from the fire to relax. Also, resist the urge to share your s'mores. Foods like chocolate, onions, and grapes are toxic to dogs.
7. Be Mindful of Wildlife
Camping means sharing space with wildlife, and while that’s part of the appeal, it can be risky for your dog. Keep your pup away from critters like skunks, raccoons, porcupines, and snakes. Wildlife encounters can lead to bites, disease, or even aggressive behavior from your own pet.
Store food (including dog food) in bear-proof containers or sealed bins and don’t leave bowls out overnight. If you’re hiking, keep your dog leashed and close by to prevent unexpected run-ins.
8. Plan Dog-Friendly Activities
A tired dog is a happy camper. Look for dog-friendly hiking trails, lakes, or scenic routes you can enjoy together. Keep in mind your dog’s fitness level; what seems like an easy trek for you might be exhausting for a small or senior pup.
Bring plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade. Watch for signs of overheating, such as heavy panting, drooling, or lethargy, especially on warmer days.
Pro tip: Let your dog carry their own backpack! There are dog-specific packs designed to hold water, snacks, and waste bags. Just make sure the load isn’t too heavy (generally no more than 10–15% of their body weight).
9. Respect Other Campers
One of the most important tips for camping with dogs is to be a respectful neighbor. That means picking up after your dog, keeping barking under control, and not letting your pup wander into someone else’s campsite. Even fellow dog lovers may not appreciate an uninvited furry visitor.
Some campers might be afraid of dogs, allergic, or traveling with pets of their own, so always ask before approaching with your dog. If your pup is reactive, anxious, or overly energetic, consider choosing a more secluded camping spot to minimize stress for everyone.
10. Know When to Call It
Despite all your planning, sometimes camping just isn’t the right fit for every dog. Some dogs get anxious in unfamiliar environments, have trouble sleeping in tents, or can’t handle the heat or cold.
If your dog seems overly stressed, is showing signs of illness, or is simply not enjoying the experience, it’s okay to pack up and head home early. The goal is for both of you to have fun; there’s no shame in cutting the trip short if your dog isn’t having a good time.
Remember: the more positive experiences your dog has, the better prepared they’ll be for the next trip.
Final Thoughts
Camping with dogs is a beautiful way to explore the outdoors, build trust, and create lasting memories. With the right planning and gear, even first-timers can enjoy a smooth and rewarding experience. From choosing a dog-friendly campground to packing smart and keeping your pup safe around wildlife, these tips for camping with a dog will help you feel more prepared and confident. Every dog is different, so listen to your pup, stay flexible, and most importantly, enjoy the journey together.
Whether you’re taking your dog camping for the first time or looking to improve your next outing, remember that a little preparation goes a long way in making the trip enjoyable for both of you. So grab the leash, pack the tent, and get ready for your next adventure. The trails are calling—and your best friend is ready to answer.