15 Tips for Camping with Dogs: A Pawfect Adventure Guide for Pet Parents
Taking your dog camping? It’s a recipe for unforgettable adventures. Your furry friend gets to explore new trails, splash in lakes, and sniff all those wild, mysterious forest scents. plus, there’s nothing quite like bonding under the stars.
We’ve tried a ton of camping strategies with our own dogs and narrowed it down to 15 tips that really work. Packing and prepping the right way helps avoid forgotten gear or those “uh-oh” moments. With these tips, you’ll feel ready to bring your four-legged buddy along for your next wild escape.
1) Pack collapsible dog bowls
Collapsible dog bowls are a game-changer. They barely take up space and weigh almost nothing, so they’re easy to toss in your pack.
We like using the same bowls for both food and water, just not at the same time. When it’s time for a meal or a quick drink, we just pop them open—super convenient.
Cleaning is easy. After our dogs finish, we wipe the bowls down, fold them flat, and stash them for later.
We always pack two bowls: one for food, one for water. This keeps things simple and a bit more hygienic.
If you’ve ever had a bowl crack or break mid-trip, you know the struggle. We suggest choosing tough bowls that can survive a little rough handling—think silicone or sturdy plastic that won’t split if you drop it.
Kibble Carrier for Dogs with Collapsible Dog Water Bowls Kit | for Camping, Hiking
2) Bring a canine first aid kit
We never head out without a dog-specific first aid kit. Having the right supplies can make a huge difference if your pup gets hurt or sick.
Our kit always has bandages, antibiotic ointment, and eye wash. We also bring any medications our dogs might need, like Benadryl or regular prescriptions.
We store everything in a waterproof container that’s easy to spot. Labels help us grab what we need fast, which matters if there’s an emergency.
Before each trip, we check expiration dates and replace anything old or used up. That way, we’re never caught off guard.
We keep our vet’s info and our dog’s medical records in the kit, just in case. It feels good to have that backup when we’re far from home.
Pet Medical Kit (50 Piece), One Size, Paprika
3) Use a hands-free leash
Hands-free leashes are a lifesaver at camp. We can set up tents, cook, or gather firewood while our dog stays close and safe.
Staying connected to our pup but still having both hands free? It just makes camp life easier.
We’ve tried a few, and the ones with waist attachments are our favorites. They clip around your waist like a belt and let you move around with zero hassle.
But, if we spot wildlife or something distracting, we always grab the leash. It just feels safer, especially if our dog gets excited.
Got two dogs? There are hands-free leashes for walking two pups at once, with swivels to keep things from getting tangled.
Double Attachment 6 Foot Adjustable Lead for Obedience, Running, and Agility Training (Blue, Medium-Large)
4) Carry biodegradable poop bags
We never leave home without a stack of biodegradable poop bags. They’re the best way to manage dog waste and keep the campsite clean.
Running out of bags? Been there, regretted that. We always bring more than we think we’ll need and stash them in an easy-to-grab spot on our pack or leash.
When nature calls, we pick up after our dogs and pack it out. The bags keep things tidy and make cleanup less gross, honestly.
If we’re deep in the woods, sometimes we bury the waste in a hole—6 to 8 inches deep, and well away from water or trails. We dig first, then use the bag to move the waste.
We never leave filled bags behind, even for a minute. Forgotten bags really ruin the outdoors for everyone.
360 Count Scented, Leak Proof and Extra Thick Waste Bag Refill (Scented)
5) Include your dog’s favorite toy
Packing our dog’s favorite toys? That’s non-negotiable. Familiar toys help our pups settle in and feel at home, even in a brand-new place.
Toys keep dogs entertained during those slow camp moments. Between hikes, a squeaky toy or ball can save everyone from boredom.
We like to bring durable toys and chews that can handle some dirt and rough play. It keeps our dogs busy and less anxious if things get a little overwhelming.
We go for toys that are easy to wash and don’t get ruined by mud or water. Usually, we pack a few options, since dogs are pretty picky sometimes.
Mix it up: maybe a ball for fetch, a soft toy for snuggling, and a chew for downtime. It’s just more fun for everyone, and honestly, it feels good to see our dogs happy at camp.
For All Breed Sizes - Perfect for Small, Medium, and Large Dogs - Outdoor Fetching and Throwing Pet Toy - Made from Durable Rubber - 12 Inches - Orange and Blue
6) Plan for hydration breaks
Dogs get thirsty fast out there, especially when they’re running around. We always bring extra water just for them and offer it often, especially on hikes.
Keeping your dog hydrated is super important. We try to stop every 30 minutes for a water break, or even more if it’s blazing hot.
We keep a collapsible water bowl clipped to our backpack or belt. That way, we can offer water whenever our dog starts panting or seems tired.
On hot days, we really stay on top of hydration. Dogs can dehydrate quickly, so we watch for dry gums or extra panting.
We always pack more water than we think we’ll need. It’s just better to have too much than not enough. As a guideline, we go with one cup per 10 pounds of dog per day, plus extra for activity.
If we’re not sure our dog’s drinking enough, we gently pinch their skin. If it doesn’t bounce back, it’s time for more water.
7) Choose dog-friendly trails
Picking trails for our dogs takes a little homework. We search for routes that welcome pets and match our dog’s energy level.
Some trails are just too steep or rocky for sensitive paws. We try to match the path to our dog’s age and fitness. Older dogs usually like gentler walks, while young pups can handle tougher terrain.
We always check leash rules before heading out. Most parks want dogs leashed, and honestly, it’s just safer for everyone, including wildlife.
We love trails with natural water sources. Streams or lakes along the way let our dogs cool off and stay hydrated. Still, we always bring a backup bowl, just in case.
Wide trails make life easier. We like having enough space to walk side by side and step aside for other hikers. It’s just a nicer experience for everyone out there.
8) Use flea and tick prevention
When we take our dogs camping, we have to protect them from those pesky hitchhikers that love to tag along. Flea and tick prevention treatments are a must before hitting the trails.
We always make sure to apply preventive medications at least a few days before our camping trip. This gives the treatment time to kick in and helps shield our pups from unwanted bugs.
Regular tick checks are essential during our outdoor adventures. Each evening, we run our hands through our dog’s fur, focusing on their ears, neck, and between their toes, those sneaky spots where ticks hide.
Keeping our campsite clean helps too. We try to set up in spots with short grass and away from thick brush where ticks love to lurk.
If we spot a tick, we use fine-tipped tweezers from our pet first aid kit for safe removal. We grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull straight up, no twisting or yanking.
9) Have a reflective dog collar
Getting a reflective collar for your pup is a must for camping safety. LED and reflective dog collars help keep our furry friends visible in low-light conditions around the campsite.
We love taking evening walks around the campground with our dogs, but it gets pretty dark out there. A reflective collar makes your dog visible to other campers and helps us keep track of where our pup is hanging out near the campfire.
Some reflective collars even come with LED lights that can flash or glow steadily. We’ve found these super helpful for late-night bathroom breaks.
Make sure to pick the right size collar for your dog’s comfort and safety. For small dogs under 15 pounds, go for a 9-12 inch collar. Medium dogs between 20-35 pounds need 13-15 inches, and larger dogs over 40 pounds should have collars at least 15 inches long.
Reflective LED Dog Collar, Adjustable Puppy Collar, Rechargeable Dog Camping Gear Dog Collar Light for Small Medium Large Dogs (Large, Pink)
10) Pack a dog sleeping pad
Your dog needs a comfy place to sleep, just like you do. We recommend bringing a dedicated sleeping pad to keep them warm and cozy at night while camping.
A good sleeping pad protects your pup from the cold ground and gives their joints a break. Make sure your dog has their own bed or sleeping pad instead of squeezing onto yours.
We suggest trimming your dog’s nails before the trip to prevent puncturing the sleeping pad. It’s a small step that saves your gear.
If you’re trying to pack light, don’t skip the dog bed. A comfortable sleeping setup is essential for your dog to rest well and have energy for the next day’s adventures.
You can use a regular foam camping pad or get a specialized dog camping bed. We like to bring an extra blanket too, especially on chilly nights.
Waterproof Warm Pet Bed Cave, Packable Washable Dog Bed Mat with Compression Bag
11) Bring a portable dog shower
We always pack a portable dog shower for our camping adventures. It’s perfect for cleaning muddy paws and keeping our furry friends fresh during longer trips.
These handy devices are lightweight and barely take up space in our gear. Most have a simple spray nozzle that attaches to a water container or bottle.
Cleaning our dogs before they enter the tent or RV helps keep our sleeping area clean. Plus, it’s way easier than dragging a dirty dog into a campground bathroom, trust me.
A quick rinse can also help cool down our pups on hot summer days. We use dog-friendly shampoo when needed, but honestly, a splash of water usually does the trick.
We always bring a few old towels just for drying off the dog. They double as bedding if needed, so they’re a smart addition to your camping kit.
Outdoor Shower, Dog Wash, Camping Shower, 1.5 Gallon Multi-use Sprayer, Hand Pump 45 PSI
12) Create a shaded area
Dogs can get hot and uncomfortable when camping in sunny weather. We recommend setting up a dedicated shaded spot where your pup can relax and cool down throughout the day.
A popup canopy or tarp works great for making shade. We like to secure it between trees or use poles to create a cool retreat away from the sun’s rays.
Natural shade from trees is awesome when you can find it. We try to pick campsites with good tree coverage whenever possible.
Make sure to place your dog’s water bowl in the shaded area too. This helps keep their drinking water cool longer and encourages them to stay hydrated while relaxing in their shady spot.
We bring a cooling mat or towel to put in the shade. This gives our pups a comfortable place to lay down and helps them regulate their body temperature better during hot days at camp.
Outdoor Tent for Large Medium Dogs, 4'x4'x3'
13) Have a pet-friendly insect repellent
Mosquitoes and ticks can make camping miserable for our furry friends. We need to protect our dogs from insects, just like we protect ourselves.
Pet-friendly insect repellents are essential for preventing painful bites and keeping our dogs comfortable during camping trips. We always toss these in with our camping gear alongside our own bug spray.
A simple option we love is making a natural repellent using apple cider vinegar. We mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle. Just don’t spray it near your dog’s eyes—nobody wants that.
We’ve found that portable mosquito repellent devices can also create a protective zone around our campsite. These are great for keeping both us and our dogs bite-free while we’re hanging out at camp.
Remember to check our dogs regularly for ticks during camping trips. Even with repellent, these sneaky bugs can still find their way onto our pets.
Natural Essential Oils - DEET-Free Bug Spray and Killer - Safe for use on adults, children, and pets when used as directed. Lemongrass 2-Pack of 4 oz Bottle
14) Use a GPS pet tracker
We always worry about our dogs wandering off during camping trips. A GPS pet tracker attached to your dog’s collar gives you peace of mind and helps find them quickly if they get lost.
GPS trackers help locate your dog if they wander away from the campsite. Many trackers connect to your phone through an app, so you can see your pet’s location in real-time.
We recommend using GPS trackers, especially when camping with small dogs. Their size makes them harder to spot in wooded areas, and they can slip away quietly without notice.
Make sure to test the tracker before your trip and keep it fully charged. We always bring a backup battery or charging method since GPS trackers use power continuously.
Cell service might be spotty in remote camping areas. Pick a GPS tracker that works well in areas with limited connectivity—some models have offline tracking features that are perfect for backcountry camping.
Waterproof, GPS Location & Smart Pet Activity Tracker, Unlimited Range, Works with Any Collar (White)
15) Prepare dog-friendly snacks
We always pack special treats to reward our furry friends during camping trips. Dog-friendly camping snacks help keep our pups happy and energized on the trail.
Small, lightweight treats work best since they’re easy to carry in our pockets during hikes. We love bringing a mix of crunchy biscuits and soft treats that won’t crumble in our backpacks.
Bring more treats than usual, camping activities burn extra energy, and our dogs deserve plenty of rewards for good behavior outdoors. We store treats in sealed containers to keep them fresh and avoid attracting wildlife to our campsite.
Some of our favorite camping treats include jerky, dried sweet potato chips, and freeze-dried meat snacks. We stick to treats our dogs already know, just to avoid any surprise tummy troubles while camping.
.5 Lb - Human Grade Pet Snacks & High Protein Meat - All Natural High Protein Dried Strips - Best Chews for Training Small & Large Dogs - Bulk Soft Pack Made for USA
Preparing Your Dog for the Trip
Getting your dog ready for camping takes planning and practice. A successful outdoor adventure starts with the right preparation and training before you ever leave home.
Training and Socialization
We recommend starting with basic obedience training at least a month before your camping trip. Your dog needs to reliably respond to commands like “come,” “stay,” and “leave it” to stay safe in the wilderness.
Practice having your dog sleep in the tent at home first. Set up your tent in the backyard and spend time in it together.
This helps them feel comfortable with their new sleeping space. Work on leash training too—your pup should walk calmly beside you without pulling, since most campgrounds require dogs to stay on-leash.
Help your dog get used to meeting new people and animals calmly. Camping often means encounters with other campers and their pets.
Health Check and Vaccinations
Book a vet appointment about 2-3 weeks before your trip. Double-check that your dog’s vaccinations are current, especially rabies and kennel cough.
Ask your vet about:
- Flea and tick prevention
- Heartworm meds
- Motion sickness remedies
- First aid supplies for your pet
Grab a copy of your dog’s vaccination records and medical history. Keep these handy during the trip in case something unexpected happens.
Check that your dog’s ID tags have up-to-date info and are attached securely. If your dog isn’t microchipped, you might want to consider it for extra peace of mind.
Choosing a Dog-Friendly Campsite
Picking the right campsite can really make or break your camping trip with dogs. You want a spot with pet-friendly rules and the right setup for safety and fun.
Campsite Amenities and Rules
Not every campsite allows dogs, so it’s smart to call ahead and ask about their pet policies. Many places will want to see proof of vaccinations and require leashes.
Some campgrounds go the extra mile for dogs, offering perks like fenced play areas or a dog wash station. We always appreciate those little touches.
Look for campsites with:
- Room to walk your dog between sites
- Easy access to fresh water
- Plenty of shade from trees or shelters
- Waste stations for cleanup
- Emergency vet services nearby
Evaluating the Terrain and Weather
Before booking, we always scope out hazards like sharp rocks or prickly plants that could hurt our dog’s paws. Flat, grassy spots just feel better for everyone.
Good campsites offer:
- Barriers that keep wildlife away
- Safe trails for walks
- Protection from harsh weather
- Clean, level ground
In summer, we look for shady spots with a breeze. For winter trips, we try to find areas that are tucked away from the wind.
We steer clear of campsites near cliffs or fast rivers, curious dogs can get into trouble fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Camping with dogs takes a bit of planning, especially when it comes to sleeping, safety, packing, and keeping them happy. Here are some questions we get all the time, and a few tips that might help your next trip go smoother.
How can I ensure my dog is comfortable sleeping outdoors when camping?
Bring your dog’s bed from home so they have something familiar. We like putting the bed inside the tent, right on top of an insulated sleeping pad for extra comfort and warmth.
Set up their sleeping spot away from the tent walls to avoid any dampness from morning condensation. Simple, but it really helps.
What essentials should I pack for my dog for a camping trip?
Collapsible bowls and a first aid kit are non-negotiable. Pack enough food for your whole trip, plus a little extra just in case.
Don’t forget waste bags, a sturdy leash, any medications your dog needs, and their vaccination records. Oh, and their favorite toy, it can make a big difference in a new place.
Any tips for keeping my dog entertained during our camping adventure?
We always bring toys that can handle a bit of dirt and rough play. A ball or frisbee is perfect for burning off energy and getting in some quality time together.
Hiking and swimming are fantastic if your dog loves adventure. Just double-check that the trails and water are open to pets before heading out.
What’s the best way to prepare for RV camping with my furry friend?
Make a cozy area in your RV just for your dog, with their bed and a couple of toys. We like using a hands-free leash when moving between the RV and outside; it makes things so much easier.
Keep the RV at a comfortable temperature and make sure there’s good airflow. Put water bowls somewhere stable so they don’t spill while you drive.
What are the safety precautions I should take when camping with my puppy?
Keep your puppy on a leash and always watch them closely. Update their ID tags with your contact info and maybe even your campsite number, just in case.
Bring basic first aid supplies and know where the nearest vet is located. Before letting your puppy explore, check for things like poison ivy or wildlife that could cause trouble.
How do I manage tent camping with my dog to ensure we both enjoy the trip?
Pick a tent that’s roomy enough for both you and your dog. It makes such a difference when you can both stretch out a bit.
We’ve learned that giving your dog their own sleeping bag or blanket keeps their spot tidier. Plus, it feels more like home for them.
Try setting up the tent at home first. Let your dog sniff around and get used to it before you actually head out.
