Camping with Your Dog: Everything We've Learned

Our golden retriever, Maple, has been on every camping trip with us since we got the van. She's our unofficial trip mascot, campsite greeter, and the reason we discovered that squirrels are apparently the most terrifying animals in the forest. Camping with a dog is one of the best experiences you can have, but it takes some planning to keep everyone safe and happy.

Finding Dog-Friendly Campgrounds

Most campgrounds allow dogs, but the rules vary wildly. Some require leashes at all times (usually 6 feet max), some have off-leash dog areas, and some restrict dogs from specific trails or beaches. National parks generally allow dogs on paved paths and in campgrounds but not on backcountry trails. State parks are usually more lenient. Always check the specific rules before booking.

Our go-to resources: BringFido.com, The Dyrt (filter by "pet-friendly"), and calling the campground directly. The phone call is worth it because web listings don't always mention breed restrictions, pet fees, or seasonal rules.

Essential Dog Camping Gear

Beyond the obvious (leash, collar, food, water bowl), here's what we've found essential after dozens of trips:

• Long tie-out cable (15-20 ft): Attaches between two trees or your RV and a post. Gives your dog room to move around camp without holding the leash constantly.
• Portable water bowl with clip: Clips to your backpack for hikes. Dogs need more water than you think when hiking, especially at altitude.
• Dog sleeping bag or pad: Maple has her own sleeping pad that she recognizes as her "bed." It provides insulation from cold ground and gives her a familiar spot in an unfamiliar place.
• Paw balm: Hot pavement, sharp rocks, and rough trails can crack paw pads. Apply balm before and after hikes. We use Musher's Secret, originally made for sled dogs.
• LED collar light or clip light: Essential for nighttime bathroom trips. You need to see where your dog is, and other campers need to see them too.
• Towel dedicated to the dog: You will need this. Trust me. Wet dog + RV interior = regret.

Safety at Camp

Wildlife encounters: Keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with bears, moose, or porcupines. A dog that chases a bear can lead the bear right back to your campsite. In bear country, treat dog food like human food. Store it in bear boxes or your vehicle, not in the tent or outside.

Heat safety: Dogs overheat faster than humans. Never leave your dog in a closed RV without AC running. Provide shade at the campsite (your awning works great). If your dog is panting heavily with a wide tongue, move to shade immediately and offer cool (not ice cold) water.

Hiking with Your Dog

Start with shorter hikes and build up. Dogs get sore muscles just like humans, especially if they're not used to long distances or elevation changes. The general rule: if it's too hot for you to walk barefoot on the trail, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Early morning and evening hikes are best in summer.

Bring more water than you think. A good formula is 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per hour of hiking. For Maple (65 lbs), that's about half a liter per hour. We carry a collapsible bowl and share our water supply with her.

Campsite Etiquette

Your dog should never approach other campsites uninvited. Not everyone loves dogs, some people are allergic, and other dogs at the campground might not be friendly. Clean up after your dog immediately, including at the campsite, on trails, and especially at water sources. Barking at night should be minimized since you're sharing the campground with others who are trying to sleep.

A well-behaved camping dog is the best ambassador for pet-friendly policies. When campgrounds see responsible dog owners, they're more likely to keep welcoming our furry co-pilots.