Camping with Dogs: A Beginner’s Guide to Bringing Your Pup Car Camping

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Introduction

Camping with your dog is one of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re heading to a national forest or a local campground, bringing your pup along adds fun, companionship, and adventure to your trip. But dogs have unique needs when they’re away from home—especially when it comes to safety, comfort, and sleeping arrangements.

This beginner’s guide covers everything you need to know to ensure a smooth, stress-free dog-friendly camping experience.

If you’re brand new to camping in general, my Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Car Camping is a great starting point before planning a dog-friendly trip.

1. Check Pet Rules Before You Go

Not all campgrounds or parks are dog-friendly, and some have strict rules.

Before booking, confirm:

• Are dogs allowed?

• Are there leash requirements?

• Are dogs allowed on trails?

• Are there breed or size restrictions?

• Are certain areas off-limits (like beaches or buildings)?

National Forests and BLM land are usually more flexible than National Parks, which often restrict dogs to paved areas.

2. Pack a Dog-Specific Camping Gear Bag

A dedicated dog bag makes packing easier and ensures you don’t forget anything.

Include:

• Leash & backup leash

• Ground stake & cable

• Harness

• Waste bags

• Food & treats

• Collapsible food/water bowls

• Blanket or dog bed

• Towel (for muddy paws or wet fur)

• Medications

• Doggy first aid items

A small storage bin or duffel works perfectly for keeping everything organized.

And if you’re packing for yourself too, here’s my Car Camping Checklist with all the essentials for a smooth trip.

3. Bring Enough Food and Clean Water

Dogs often burn more energy while camping from exploring, walking, and being outdoors all day.

Tips:

• Pack extra food just in case

• Bring plenty of clean drinking water

• Keep food sealed to avoid wildlife interest

• Don’t rely on natural water sources—they can carry bacteria

If your dog has a sensitive stomach, changing environments can add stress—stick to their regular food.

And while you’re planning your Human meals, here are some easy camping meals for beginners that are simple to prep at camp.

4. Use a Leash or Tie-Out System at Camp

Even well-behaved dogs can get overwhelmed, overstimulated, or excited in new environments.

A tie-out cable or long lead helps your dog enjoy freedom while staying safe. Make sure your dog:

• Can’t reach your campfire

• Isn’t able to wander into other campsites

• Doesn’t get tangled around trees or furniture

A harness is better than a collar for long tie-outs.

For quick tips that make any camping trip easier, here are 25 Car Camping Hacks for Beginners.

5. Keep Your Dog Comfortable at Night

Just like you, your dog needs warmth and coziness to sleep well.

Good options for sleeping setups:

• Inside your tent (best choice)

• A dog bed or blanket inside the tent

• A sleeping bag designed for dogs

• Your car if they prefer a closed, small space

Cold nights can affect your dog even more than you—bring an extra blanket or insulated dog jacket if temperatures drop.

Cold nights can be challenging for both humans and dogs — here’s how to stay warm while car camping. If you prefer sleeping inside your vehicle, here’s a full guide on how to sleep in your car comfortably and safely.

6. Protect Your Dog’s Paws

Rough terrain, hot sand, or sharp rocks can hurt your dog’s paws.

Bring:

• Booties for rough terrain

• Paw balm to protect pads

• Tweezers in case of thorns

Booties take practice—let your dog try them at home first to get comfortable.

7. Watch for Heat or Cold Stress

Dogs don’t regulate temperature the same way humans do.

Signs of overheating:

• Excessive panting

• Lethargy

• Drooling

• Red gums

Signs of being too cold:

• Shivering

• Curling tightly

• Refusing to lie down on cold surfaces

Cooling mats or dog jackets help a ton in extreme temperatures.

8. Keep Your Dog Safe Around Wildlife

Dogs can accidentally provoke wildlife or get hurt if they’re too curious.

Best practices:

• Keep them close when hiking

• Avoid letting them sniff holes or dens

• Secure food and scented items

• Never leave your dog unattended at camp

Coyotes, porcupines, snakes, and bears can all be risks depending on your area.

9. Plan Dog-Friendly Activities

A tired dog is a happy (and well-behaved) dog.

Fun camping activities for pups:

• Short hikes

• Swimming

• Fetch in open safe areas

• Sniff walks around camp

• Relaxing in the shade

Avoid intense hikes if your dog isn’t used to them—start slow.

10. Clean Up After Your Dog

Leaving dog waste behind is harmful to wildlife and water sources. Always pack it out in sealed bags or deposit it in campground trash bins.

Keep waste bags easily accessible—one roll in the car, one in the tent, and one in your daypack.

What If Your Dog Is Nervous or New to Camping?

Some dogs take time to adjust. Help them feel safe by:

• Bringing familiar blankets or toys

• Giving them space away from crowds

• Comforting them during loud noises

• Keeping routines as normal as possible

If your dog has anxiety, start with short, simple one-night trips before big weekend adventures.

Final Thoughts

Camping with your dog is an incredible way to explore the outdoors together. With the right preparation, your dog will be safe, comfortable, and excited for every adventure. Take it slow, pack the essentials, and enjoy the extra joy that comes with having your four-legged friend by your side. If it’s your first time camping, here are 10 things I wish I knew before my first car camping trip.

As you both gain experience, you’ll learn what works best for your dog’s personality and comfort.