Finding pet friendly campgrounds in the U.S. is easy with our state-by-state listings of campgrounds in national parks and forests; Bureau of Land Management (BLM) public lands; state, county and regional parks; and state forests. Also included are private campgrounds and RV parks, and camping cabins in state parks. Camping can be fun for you and your pet, but before you go, you should do some preparation:

1. Check to see whether the camping area allows dogs, and familiarize yourself with the rules for pets at the site – some parks may have restricted areas, like park facilities, lakes, ponds, creeks and streams, and the backcountry. Many parks do not allow pets on hiking trails or boardwalks. Always check park regulations if you plan on hiking during your stay.
2. Make sure your dog is healthy and up-to-date on all required vaccinations, particularly rabies. And, remember to bring your pet’s proof of rabies vaccination as many campgrounds require it for entry. Ask your vet whether your dog should be vaccinated against Lyme disease, a tick-borne disease. Discuss appropriate flea and tick control. Be sure your dog is protected against heartworms, which are transmitted by mosquito bite and have been reported in all 50 states, according to the American Heartworm Society.
3. Make sure your pet has an appropriate collar or harness with an identification tag. Use a cell phone number where you can be reached at all times, not a home phone number, on the tag. Microchipping your dog will provide an additional measure of protection in the event that your dog becomes lost. A long leash is a great way to allow your dog to explore the campsite.
4. Bring water for your dog to drink if a water supply is not available at the campsite. Do not allow your dog to drink out of standing bodies of water. Your dog should continue to eat his regular diet during the trip; pack enough food and treats to last for your entire stay. Pack a food dish and water bowl. Bring bedding and toys to keep your dog occupied as well. Take a copy of your dog’s health records and vaccination reports, required at some campgrounds. Other essential items include a leash and collar or harness, a carrier or other means to confine your dog when necessary, bags to pick up your dog’s waste, a first aid kit and any medications your dog takes regularly.
5. Research ahead of your trip and see what dog-friendly camping activities there are to do on or around the campground; for example, hiking, boating, or visiting a dog friendly beach. Also do research on some dog-friendly dining establishments in the area if you want to take a break from cooking on the fire and find a local spot.

U.S. National Parks Campgrounds – Pet Policies

In general, pets are permitted in campgrounds in national parks but must be restrained either on a leash not exceeding 6 feet in length, caged or crated at all times. Check national park pet policies and regulations regarding camping with your pet. Some campgrounds permit pet camping only in designated sites. Please be aware of the pet policy of the campground you’re planning to visit. As of 2022, all campsites within a national park can only be booked using www.recreation.gov

Camping with Pets – U.S. National Park Service
Tips for taking your pet camping in the National Park Service.

Camping with Horses – U.S. National Park Service
Some parks allow the use of stock (i.e., horses, mules, donkeys, llamas) in the backcountry as a mode of transportation for you and/or your gear. Regulations vary from park to park, so please plan accordingly.

U.S. National Forests Campgrounds – Pet Policies

All U.S. National Forests campgrounds allow pets, but they must be leashed and under control in the campground and on the trails. Since the U.S. Forest Service administers almost 200 million acres of forests and grasslands there are more options than with national parks: book-in-advance formal campsites (like the ones in national parks); first-come, first-serve campsites (offered in a few of those parks); and open, dispersed free camping (not offered in any national parks without a backcountry permit).

Camping in U.S. National Forests
Find tips for making sure that your camping experience is fun and safe.

RV Camping – U.S. Forest Service Campgrounds

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Campgrounds – Pet Policies

Pets on a leash are allowed in most BLM campgrounds and on most BLM-managed trails; leashes are not required on all trails. Most of the lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management are in Western States. These are wide-open spaces and wildlands that offer developed campgrounds and dispersed camping away from developed recreation facilities. Dispersed camp sites are located along most secondary roads and may not be marked.

Camping on Public Lands – Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
Find info on permits, fees, and dispersed camping.

More Information

Tips on Backpacking and Camping With Your Dog
You need to have a few things in mind when it comes to a trip that requires backpacking and bringing the needed gear on your camping trip.

Traveling with Pets by RV
Find pet friendly RV parks and resorts; RV rentals; and tips for traveling in an RV with your pet.

Understanding the Different Types of Pet-Friendly Campgrounds
Pet-friendly campgrounds often have specific pet policies that campers need to follow.

KOA Campgrounds – 5 Tips for Camping With Pets
Pets are allowed at many KOA Campgrounds, a chain with nearly 500 locations throughout North America. Check with the campground about its specific pet policies. Some don’t allow pets in Cabins, for example, or may have limited pet units. Others don’t accept particular breeds that insurance providers have identified as having a history of aggression. Select KOA Campgrounds provide Kamp K9s, a fenced area where your pup has room to roam off leash and ample seating for you to watch them romp. You’ll find cleanup stations, fresh water and, at some KOAs, dedicated areas for large and small dogs.

The 10 Best Dog-friendly Campsites in the U.S.
Including campgrounds in North Carolina, Virginia, California, Utah, Maine, Texas, Colorado, Washington, and New Hampshire.

Tips for Camping With Dogs
Find some helpful (and important) tips about camping with dogs for the canine camping champs and the newbies alike.

Find a Pet Friendly Campground or RV Park in the U.S.

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