Dogs deserve camping fun too, and with the right research and planning, there is no reason not to take them with you on a camping trip. They’ll love spending time with you exploring the woods, jumping in a lake, or hiking down a trail. Make sure to bring all the gear that will make it easy to camp with your pet. Some accessories are somewhat “luxury” items, but most are things you’ll find very useful. Here is a list of important gear and a few locations to check out with your four-footed friends.
Recommended: Wilderdog – Gear for Dogs on Adventures
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Dog Leash – When you take a leash on a camping trip, you may want to make sure it has two features – 1) adjustable so you can choose whether to keep your dog close to you or let him wander a little distance and 2) a clip so you can hook it to something nearby while you cook or set up camp. You might also consider the hands-free type that can attach around your waist, or your pack when hiking.
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Biodegradable Dog Bags – No matter where you are, it is park rules and common courtesy to pick up after your pet.
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First Aid Kit and Medications – One of the essentials of camping with pets is having a first aid kit designed specifically for animals. You can feel confident when you are prepared for anything. Equally as important is remembering your pet medications.
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Dog Food and Collapsible Dog Bowl – Make dog food a priority on your camping checklist. Collapsible dog bowls are great when traveling because they are easy to pack and carry. Some have a carabiner clip so you can attach it to your bag and have it at the ready for easy access.
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Dog Treats – Get plenty of dog treats to take along on your camping trip. When you pack, conveniently fill the corners of your carry-on bags, boxes, or any other containers for easy access. It’s a great training tool for good behavior, and your dog will thank you.
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Dog Toys – Don’t forget to bring your dog’s favorite toys, such as frisbees, balls, or their favorite rope tug.
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Dog Camping Bed – For camping, your dog’s bed should be simple to clean, lightweight, and water resistant. It also helps if it rolls up into a compact size. A camping bed will keep them off the ground, warm, and dry.
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Dog Backpack – If you want your dog to carry a few things while hiking, get him a doggy backpack. Ensure the harness is a comfortable fit and your dog will be happy to tote some things along the trail. Only load 25% or less of your dog’s body weight in the pack.
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Dog Boots – If camping in the outdoors, there is a lot of wear and tear on your dog’s feet as he goes exploring the woods with you. Little doggy hiking boots will protect your pup from hot surfaces, rocks, pine cones, and sharp grasses.
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Clothing and safety items – When going camping in hot locales, you’ll want to keep your dog cool and comfortable, and a cooling vest is ideal. Get it wet, squeeze out the extra water, and put it on your pet. Rain jackets, jackets to keep your pet warm at night, and life vests for water sports are other important items to bring.
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Dog Goggles – A pair of doggy goggles will protect your pup’s eyes from sun and debris that can bother them. When wearing them, your dog looks very cool too.
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GPS tracker – You won’t risk losing your dog in the wilderness if you have a GPS tracking device attached to his collar. You can keep track of him from your phone and, depending on the device, what he is doing.
Having the right gear for your pet will make camping easier and ensure a safe trip.
Recommended: Five Tail-Wagging Adventures in Georgia’s State Parks
Here are some dog-friendly campgrounds in state parks across the country. Remember to research and follow all posted rules regarding pets prior to your trip.
Columbus Belmont State Park, Kentucky
This state park encompasses 156 acres and offers a wide variety of activities, including putt-putt golf, lookout tower, and much more. Explore the trails with your dog to see historic landmarks including a fortification that was built by the Confederates during the Civil War, then taken over and occupied by Union forces. There are 31 campsites and 4 areas for larger family groups.
Green Falls Campground, Connecticut
A wonderful place to explore the Pachaug State Forest with your dog, this campground in Connecticut has miles and miles of trails and roads for hiking, motorcycling, and horseback riding. Try your hand at catching pickerel, trout, and natural bass in Green Falls Pond.
Keyhole State Park, Wyoming
Located on the western edge of the Black Hills, this historic state park in Wyoming has much to offer. There is plenty of water recreation where you can enjoy fishing, kayaking, hiking, boating, and bird watching. There are over 220 tent or RV sites around the reservoir to choose from.
Recommended: Trail Obedience Skills to Teach Your Dog
Hungry Mother State Park, Virginia
Bring your non-gasoline powered boat so you and your dog can get out on the water. Here in Virginia you’ll enjoy this state park’s woodland wonders and lake recreation. Hungry Mother Lake has a beach area offering freshwater fishing and swimming The park also offers a tennis court, horseshoes, volleyball, and more to keep the family entertained.
Calamus State Recreation Area, Nebraska
Almost 5,000 acres are here for you and your dog to explore, as well as over 5,000 acres of lake and over a mile of the Calamus River. You’ll discover prime fishing, hiking, windsurfing, and sailboarding in the Calamus State Recreation Area. Just below the dam, enjoy a self-guided tour through Calamus State Fish Hatchery. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to stay at one of the modern campgrounds.
Are you ready for an outdoor adventure? Plan your camping trip!
Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state’s latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.