Camping is a favorite weekend pastime of many outdoor enthusiasts, but dog lovers sometimes find it difficult to include their canine pals in the excursion. Finding good places to go camping with your dog requires planning ahead and learning policies of local campgrounds, but there are many pet-friendly camping facilities to be found. Start by doing some research and asking friends and co-workers of places they have visited with their four-legged friends.
To find the best campgrounds for camping with dogs, use online resources. Most every city has a website that details their Visitors Bureau. Within each site you can usually find information about camping grounds, including whether or not dogs are allowed. Most state and national parks allow dogs to visit, but you should still be sure they are permitted to camp with their owners. If you can’t find specific information about camping with dogs, write down the phone numbers of places that interest you and call.
When camping with a dog, look for campgrounds that offer hiking trails. Since most facilities require owners to keep their dogs on a leash at all times, you'll want to take several opportunities to walk with your dog. Also, be sure to verify whether you are required to tether your dog while at your campsite. If so, be sure to bring along a stake and long enough chain. If you must tie up your dog, you want him to have room to roam a bit and standard leashes just aren’t long enough.
Some campgrounds have designated areas for dogs to be let loose. If you can locate such a facility, you’ll appreciate this added allowance. Take advantage of it and bring along a ball or flying disc to play with your dog. If your dog enjoys the water, make sure to check facilities for lakes or streams where your dog can go free.
Remember that public campgrounds must take into consideration all of their visitors, not just those with dogs so be a courteous dog owner. Show your gratitude towards pet-friendly facilities by being conscientious of picking up after your dog, following the rules regarding leashes, and not allowing your dog to disturb other campers with barking.
Exploring different places to go camping with your dog is an adventure in itself. There will likely be facilities you won’t return to, but perhaps just as many that you will visit again and again. If you plan to travel far for your camping trip, be sure to check for pet-friendly hotels along route. Traveling and camping with your dog can be a great experience if you plan a trip that accommodates both of you.