Camping with your dog can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it does require some extra planning to ensure your trip is enjoyable, safe, and fun for both you and your furry friend. From researching dog-friendly campgrounds to packing essentials and following campground etiquette, there’s a lot to consider when bringing your dog into the wilderness. This guide is here to walk you through all the key steps and tips for a successful camping adventure with your pup, whether you’re a seasoned camper or it’s your first time hitting the outdoors together. With a little preparation, you’ll be ready to enjoy nature, bond with your dog, and create unforgettable memories around the campfire.

Complete Guide to Tent Camping with a Dog

Tips for Camping With a Dog

Research Campgrounds

Most public campgrounds are dog-friendly, however rules can vary at different campgrounds and in the surrounding area. National Parks, for example, don’t allow dogs on many trails and may limit them to campsites and parking lots. Many campsites also don’t allow dogs to be off-leash. Research campgrounds and their rules to plan accordingly so that your dog isn’t left alone or going into places they are not allowed.

To find dog-friendly campgrounds, check out State Parks, National Parks, BringFido, and HipCamp. To find dog-friendly hiking trails, try using AllTrails.

Vet Check-Ups

Before going camping with your dog, be sure that they are up to date on their immunizations, as well as their flea and tick medication. If your dog has not had their annual appointment, prior to your camping trip is a great time to get them caught up just in case their are any hiccups on your trip. If you’re not sure if your dog is microchipped, the vet can check for this as well.

As a safety precaution, check your dog each night before it gets dark to make sure they haven’t picked up anything. Even if they are taking medication for ticks, they could end up with one on them. For an easy tick remover, check out this little device here.

In case of emergencies, be sure to find the nearest vet. Have your current vet email you copies of your dog’s current health records, or scan physical copies to your phone to have on hand.

Bring Older Gear

If you have old harnesses or leashes that you’ve replaced through the years (but are functioning properly), opt to bring them instead of your everyday gear. If you don’t have to get your everyday harness or leash dirty, it saves you time from cleaning.

Secure Scented Items

As you would for any scented items that you bring camping, make sure to secure your dog’s scented items as well. Treats, dog food, and chews can attract wildlife if not appropriately stored at night. Don’t keep food and other scented items in your tent at night and store them in bear canisters or bear lockers as recommended by the campground.

What to Pack When Camping With a Dog

For a full packing list for camping, be sure to check out my post on car camping essentials.

Below are the essentials that I bring when I am camping with my dog:

Leashes: I bring two different leashes. The first is a 6 foot leash to use for walks/hikes. The second leash is a 20 ft metal leash for the campsite to give my dog room to roam. With the two leashes, I can also do a DIY version of the Ruffwear Knot-a-Hitch.
Harness: If you usually use a collar, opt for a harness. Harnesses are more secure and trickier for your dog to escape from.
Identification: Have some form of identification for your dog in case they manage to get loose and don’t come back.
Harness light: A small light to hook on your dog’s harness at night can provide better visibility in the dark.
Dog Wipes: I always wipe off my dog’s paws before getting in or out of the tent and my car to keep things cleaner.
Dog Dry Shampoo and Brush: Just in case your dog gets especially dirty. To clean up your pup, it’s also a good idea to keep a few old towels on hand.
Paw Balm: This can help soothe your dog’s paws if they are dry or cracked.
Car Seat Cover: I keep a waterproof dog seat cover in the back of my car so that I don’t have to worry about things getting dirty.
Shoes/jacket: If we are somewhere especially hot or cold, I will bring dog shoes or a dog jacket.
Poop Bags: Most of the time, poop bags are not provided at campgrounds or are in very limited supply.
Food/Water/Treats (and Bowls)
Lifejacket
Dog first aid
Dog bed

Camping Etiquette

If you’re camping at a campground rather than dispersed camping, you’re likely going to be around other people. It’s important to be considerate of others where you’re staying, as well as respectful of nature. Below are a few general tips for following camping etiquette.

Leash Requirements

Even for well-behaved dogs, most campgrounds require dogs to be kept on leash. Some campgrounds require a “6 foot leash” while others do not specify. Be respectful to other campers by reading up on any rules and following them. If you’re looking to keep your dog off-leash, look into dispersed camping.

Quiet Hours

Most campgrounds have hours that require noise to be kept to a minimum. If your dog tends to bark, be sure to take steps to reduce potential barking. Make sure your pup is tired at night by filling the day with activities and new smells. You can also bring out a chew or puzzle at night to keep them occupied before bed.

Be Respectful of Campsites

To be respectful of other campers and their campsites, be sure to keep your dog nearby. If another camper wants to interact with your dog, let them initiate. Not everyone loves dogs and unless you’re invited, it’s polite to keep your distance.

Leave No Trace

Always clean up after your dog while camping and on hikes. Dog waste can attract wildlife and damage the ecosystem. Respect leave no trace principles by packing dog bags in and packing dog waste out!

Basic Commands Can Go a Long Ways

If your dog has room to improve on their basic commands such as “stay,” “come,” and “leave it,” there is no better time than to review your training. You will likely be in a new environment with new distractions that will test your dog’s training. There might be wildlife that your dog rarely (if ever) comes across and it can become dangerous if your dog does not listen to basic commands. Train your dog to stay within your site boundaries (even on leash) and reliably listen to their commands.

Never Leave Your Dog Unattended

The new environment while camping can cause your dog to stress, especially if they lose sight of you. It’s also a rule at most campgrounds to never leave your dog unattended. Plan ahead if you will be camping alone to make sure there is never a time they need to be left alone.

Frequently Asked Question

I am camping alone with my dog, how do I go to the bathroom?

I often camp alone with my dog and sometimes you can run into a problem. You can’t leave your dog unattended, but dogs are not allowed in campground facilities. What do you do? In this case, I try to book campgrounds that have vault toilets rather than complete shower/toilet facilities. There are never signs that say dogs are not able to go into the vault toilet buildings, and they are always single stalls so I never have to worry about disturbing other campers. It’s best to plan to make sure you’re following all the rules.

When is the earliest I can take my dog camping?

Always consult your vet. However, generally, if your dog does not have any health problems that prevent them from camping, you can go as soon as they are fully vaccinated.

Where should my dog sleep while camping?

The best place for them to sleep is with you. If you’re sleeping in a tent, then they should be as well. You can make your dog comfortable by providing them with a comfortable space to sleep. A few options are dog beds, blankets, or even a sleeping bag.

How should I prepare my dog for camping?

Get your dog used to your camping gear before the trip. You can set up the tent and allow them to sniff and explore it on their own. If you’re concerned about your dog sleeping in a tent, you can try a trial night while the tent is set up in your home.

Camping with a Dog Packing List: PDF!

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