15 Tips for Camping with Dogs: A Pawfect Adventure Guide for Pet Parents
Taking your dog camping creates unforgettable outdoor adventures and memories. Your furry friend can explore new trails, splash in lakes, and sniff exciting forest scents while bonding with you under the stars.
We’ve tested dozens of camping strategies with our own dogs and found 15 key tips that will make your outdoor adventure safe and fun for both you and your pup.
Proper preparation and packing help avoid common problems like forgotten supplies or unsafe situations. With our advice, you’ll feel confident bringing your four-legged friend along on your next wilderness escape.
1) Pack collapsible dog bowls
Collapsible dog bowls are a must-have for any camping trip with our furry friends. They take up minimal space in our packs and weigh almost nothing, making them perfect for outdoor adventures.
We love that these bowls can be used for both food and water. When we’re hiking or setting up camp, we can quickly pop them open whenever our pups need a drink or a meal.
The best part about collapsible travel bowls is how easy they are to clean and store. After use, we just wipe them down, fold them flat, and tuck them away until next time.
We always pack at least two bowls – one for food and one for water. This helps us avoid any mix-up of flavors and keeps things more hygienic for our four-legged camping buddies.
We recommend choosing durable bowls that can handle being dropped or stepped on. Look for bowls made from strong materials that won’t tear or crack easily.
Kibble Carrier for Dogs with Collapsible Dog Water Bowls Kit | for Camping, Hiking
2) Bring a canine first aid kit
We always pack a dedicated first aid kit for our dogs when heading into the great outdoors. A dog-specific first aid kit contains essential items that could save your pup’s life in an emergency.
Basic supplies should include bandages, antibiotic ointment, and eye wash. We make sure to pack any medications our dogs might need like Benadryl for allergic reactions or their regular prescriptions.
It’s smart to keep the kit in an easy-to-spot waterproof container. We label everything clearly so we can find what we need quickly when time matters.
Remember to check expiration dates before each camping trip. Replace any used or expired items right away to keep the kit ready for your next adventure.
We also store our pup’s vet contact info and medical records in the kit. Having this information handy gives us peace of mind when we’re far from home.
Pet Medical Kit (50 Piece), One Size, Paprika
3) Use a hands-free leash
A hands-free leash is amazing for camping because it lets us set up tents, cook meals, and gather firewood while keeping our dog safely attached. We love that we can stay connected to our pup while having both hands available for camp tasks.
We’ve found that hands-free leashes with waist attachments work really well for camping adventures. The leash clips around our waist like a belt, giving us complete freedom of movement while maintaining control of our furry friend.
One thing we’ve learned is to still hold the leash when we spot wildlife or other distractions. This prevents any sudden pulls that might catch us off guard while we’re busy with camp duties.
For those of us with multiple dogs, there are even special hands-free leashes designed for walking two dogs at once. These have swivel attachments to prevent tangling when our pups explore different directions.s important as your dog’s well-being.
Double Attachment 6 Foot Adjustable Lead for Obedience, Running, and Agility Training (Blue, Medium-Large)
4) Carry biodegradable poop bags
We always pack plenty of biodegradable poop bags when camping with our dogs. These bags are essential for managing dog waste while backpacking and keeping the campsite clean.
We recommend bringing extra bags since running out is never fun. It’s best to keep them easily accessible in an outer pocket of your backpack or clipped to your dog’s leash.
When nature calls, we pick up the poop and pack it out with us. This is the most responsible way to handle dog waste on shorter trips. The bags protect our hands and make the whole process much more pleasant.
If we’re deep in the backcountry, we can bury the waste in a 6-8 inch hole at least 200 feet away from water sources and trails. We dig the hole first, then use the bag to transfer the waste into it.
Remember to never leave filled poop bags on the trail – even if we plan to pick them up later. We’ve seen too many forgotten bags that spoil the outdoor experience for others.
360 Count Scented, Leak Proof and Extra Thick Waste Bag Refill (Scented)
5) Include your dog’s favorite toy
Bringing your dog’s favorite toys along on your camping trip can make a huge difference in their comfort level. We always pack a few familiar toys to help our pups feel more at home in the new environment.
Favorite toys provide entertainment during downtime at the campsite. Those quiet moments between hikes and activities can get boring for our furry friends, so having their beloved squeaky toy or ball keeps them occupied.
We recommend bringing durable toys and long-lasting chews to keep your dog mentally stimulated. This helps prevent them from getting restless or anxious in the unfamiliar setting.
Pack toys that are easy to clean and won’t get ruined if they get wet or muddy. We like to bring at least 2-3 different options since dogs can be picky about which toy they want to play with on any given day.
Remember to pack a mix of different types – maybe a ball for fetch, a stuffed toy for cuddling, and a chew toy for quiet time. Just like at home, having their favorite playthings makes camping more fun and comfortable for our four-legged camping buddies.
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 need more water than we do when camping, especially during physical activity. We always pack extra water specifically for our furry friends and make sure to offer it frequently during hikes and adventures.
Keeping your dog hydrated is essential for their safety and comfort. We recommend stopping for water breaks every 30 minutes during activities, or more often if it’s hot outside.
We always bring a collapsible water bowl that’s easy to carry. It’s helpful to clip it right to our backpack or belt loop so we can quickly offer water whenever our pup shows signs of thirst.
On hot days, we make hydration even more of a priority. Dogs can get dehydrated quickly while camping, so we watch for signs like excessive panting or dry gums.
We’ve learned to bring more water than we think we’ll need. It’s better to have extra than to run out during our adventure. A good rule of thumb is one cup of water per 10 pounds of dog weight per day, plus extra for activities.
Remember to check if your dog is drinking enough by gently pinching their skin. If it doesn’t snap back quickly, they might need more water.
7) Choose dog-friendly trails
Planning our hiking adventures with dogs takes a bit of research. We need to look for trails that welcome our four-legged friends and match their fitness level.
Some trails might have steep sections or rough terrain that could be hard on our pup’s paws. We want to pick paths that suit both our dog’s age and physical abilities. A senior dog might prefer gentle walks, while a young, energetic pup can handle more challenging routes.
We always check if the trail rules require leashes. Most parks do, and it’s safer for everyone. It keeps our dogs from disturbing wildlife or other hikers.
Water access along the trail is a big plus. We look for paths with streams or lakes where our dogs can take a drink and cool off. Remember to bring a collapsible water bowl just in case.
Width matters too. We prefer wider trails where we can easily walk side by side with our dogs and have space to step aside when passing other hikers. This makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone on the trail.
8) Use flea and tick prevention
When we take our dogs camping, we need 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 work effectively and provides the best protection for our furry friends.
Regular tick checks are essential during our outdoor adventures.
We take a few minutes each evening to run our hands through our dog’s fur, paying special attention to their ears, neck, and between their toes where ticks love to hide.
Keeping our campsite clean helps too. We try to set up in areas with short grass and away from thick brush where ticks tend to live.
If we do find a tick, we keep fine-tipped tweezers in our pet first aid kit for safe removal.
We grasp the tick as close to our dog’s skin as possible and pull straight up without twisting.
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 can get 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 when our dogs need a bathroom break after sunset.
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, while 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 will protect your pup from the cold ground and provide cushioning for their joints. Make sure your dog has their own bed or sleeping pad rather than trying to share yours.
We suggest trimming your dog’s nails before the trip to prevent them from puncturing the sleeping pad. This simple step can help your gear last longer.
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 don’t take up much space in our camping gear.
Most models come with a simple spray nozzle that attaches to a water container or bottle.
We’ve found that cleaning our dogs before they enter the tent or RV helps keep our sleeping area clean and comfortable. Plus, it’s much easier than trying to wrangle a dirty dog into a campground bathroom.
A quick rinse can also help cool down our pups on hot summer days.
We make sure to use dog-friendly shampoo when needed, but often a simple water rinse is enough to remove dirt and debris.
Remember to bring a few old towels dedicated to drying off your dog.
These can double as bedding in a pinch, making them a versatile addition to your camping supplies.
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. This gives our furry friends their own special place to rest.
Natural shade from trees is awesome when you can find it.
We try to pick campsites with good tree coverage whenever possible. The natural canopy helps keep temperatures comfortable for our dogs.
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 these pesky 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 pack these in our camping gear alongside our human 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 be careful to avoid spraying it near your dog’s eyes.
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 you 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, letting you 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.
Remember that 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.
Remember to 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 prevent attracting wildlife to our campsite.
Some of our favorite camping treats include jerky, dried sweet potato chips, and freeze-dried meat snacks.
We make sure to stick to treats our dogs are already familiar with rather than introducing new foods that might upset their stomachs 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
Schedule a vet visit 2-3 weeks before your trip. Make sure all vaccinations are up-to-date, especially rabies and kennel cough.
Ask your vet about:
- Flea and tick prevention
- Heartworm medication
- Motion sickness remedies if needed
- First aid supplies for your pet
Get a copy of your dog’s vaccination records and medical history. Keep these papers with you during the trip in case of emergency.
Check that your dog’s ID tags are current and secure. Consider getting a microchip if your pet doesn’t already have one.
Choosing a Dog-Friendly Campsite
Picking the right campsite makes a huge difference in having a fun and safe camping trip with our furry friends. The ideal spot needs both pet-friendly rules and the right physical features.
Campsite Amenities and Rules
Not all campsites welcome dogs, so we always call ahead to check the pet policies. Many campgrounds require leashes and proof of vaccinations.
We love spots that offer special perks for our pups. Some places have dedicated dog wash stations or fenced areas where dogs can play off-leash.
Look for campsites with:
- Clear space between sites for walking dogs
- Access to fresh water
- Shade structures or trees
- Waste disposal stations
- Emergency vet services nearby
Evaluating the Terrain and Weather
We always check for hazards that could hurt our dogs’ paws, like sharp rocks or thorny plants. Flat, grassy areas are ideal for setting up our camp.
Good campsites have:
- Natural barriers from wildlife
- Safe trails for dog walks
- Protection from extreme weather
- Clean, level ground
During hot months, we pick spots with lots of shade and good airflow. For cold weather camping, we look for areas sheltered from wind.
We also avoid camping near cliffs or fast-moving water that could be dangerous for curious pups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Camping with dogs requires thoughtful preparation around sleeping arrangements, safety, gear, and activities. We’ve answered the most common questions to help make your outdoor adventure a success.
How can I ensure my dog is comfortable sleeping outdoors when camping?
Bring your dog’s bed from home to provide a familiar sleeping spot. We recommend placing the bed inside your tent on an insulated sleeping pad for extra warmth and comfort.
Setting up the sleeping area away from tent walls helps prevent contact with morning condensation.
What essentials should I pack for my dog for a camping trip?
Collapsible bowls and a first aid kit are absolute must-haves for any camping trip. Pack enough food for the entire trip plus extra in case of delays.
We also bring waste bags, a leash, medications, and proof of vaccinations. Don’t forget their favorite toy – it helps them feel secure in the new environment.
Any tips for keeping my dog entertained during our camping adventure?
We love bringing interactive toys that can handle outdoor play. A ball or frisbee provides great exercise and bonding time.
Taking your dog on hikes and swims helps burn energy and creates enriching experiences. Just remember to check if the trails and water areas are dog-friendly.
What’s the best way to prepare for RV camping with my furry friend?
Create a dedicated space in your RV with their bed and toys. We suggest using a hands-free leash when moving between the RV and outdoors.
Keep the RV temperature comfortable and ensure proper ventilation. Place water bowls where they won’t tip during travel.
What are the safety precautions I should take when camping with my puppy?
Keep puppies on leash and supervised at all times. We recommend updating their ID tags with current contact information and campsite details.
Also, bring basic first aid supplies and know the location of the nearest vet. Check the campground for hazards like poison ivy or wildlife before letting your puppy explore.
How do I manage tent camping with my dog to ensure we both enjoy the trip?
Choose a tent with enough space for you and your dog to move comfortably. We’ve found that using a separate sleeping bag or blanket for your dog helps keep their area clean.
Practice setting up the tent at home so your dog gets comfortable with it before the trip.
