10 Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds in the U.S.
- Molly Weinfurter
- Jun 27
- 6 min read
Updated: Jul 30
If you love traveling with dogs, camping is the perfect vacation idea. Camping is outside, so many campgrounds are dog-friendly. Plus, there are often fun activities dogs can participate in nearby, such as hiking, swimming, going to dog parks, or simply hanging out by the fire.
While it’s common for campgrounds to allow dogs, some are much more accommodating of furry friends than others. So, let’s look at some of the best dog-friendly campgrounds in the U.S. to help you find your next dog vacation destination.
What Makes a Campground Dog-Friendly?
If you’re thinking of camping with dogs, the first step is to make sure the campground you choose allows dogs. Ideally, dogs should be allowed in as many areas of the property as possible. If they’re restricted from certain spots, such as the swimming area, then that location isn’t as dog-friendly as others.
The most dog-friendly campgrounds near you should have dog-friendly amenities and activities that you can enjoy with your pup. Here are some popular ones to look out for:
Fenced-in dog parks
Dog swimming areas
Pet waste cleanup stations
Dog water fountains
Pet bathing/grooming stations
Dog-friendly cabins with fenced-in “yards”
Dog-friendly activities/events
Camp store with pet supplies
Of course, having all of this at one campground is a lot to ask. There are very few campgrounds designed specifically for dogs. Looking for a campground with a few dog-specific features is a great way to find your next destination.
One more thing to look out for is breed restrictions. If dog campgrounds restrict certain breeds, I would consider them less dog-friendly than others. Campgrounds should judge dogs based on their behaviors, not appearance. If you’re unsure if a campground will allow your dog’s breed, it’s a good idea to call ahead just in case.
Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds in the U.S.
There are tons of campgrounds in the United States, so to help you narrow down your search, I’ve selected some of the best ones for dog parents. If you know of an amazing dog-friendly campground that isn’t listed but should be, fill out the website's contact form to get it added.
1. 4 Paws Kingdom - North Carolina
4 Paws Kingdom is definitely a dream destination for me. It’s a campground specifically for dogs and dog parents. They have fenced-in dog parks, agility courses, dog swimming areas, and a dog bathing area. All the rental cabins and yurts come with a fenced-in yard (and some of the RV sites do too!) They even have dog-friendly events like movie nights and festivals. It’s the only campground I know of where the amenities are specifically catered to dogs.
2. Andersens Oceanside RV Park & Cottages - Washington
This Washington campsite stands out to me because they donate to a local animal shelter, and there’s nothing I love more than helping dogs in need. Because of this gesture, it’s obviously a dog-friendly campsite. Visitors can have up to three dogs per site, and there’s a huge fenced-in dog run and dog shower on-site. The campground is along the beach, which dog parents can visit with their furry friends.
3. Fox Hill RV Resort & Campground - Wisconsin
As a Wisconsin resident, I love the Dells, so I had to include this camping destination. There are plenty of amenities for dogs to enjoy, including a dog pond, dog parks, pet washing stations, and a pet-friendly snack bar. Plus, if your dog loves hiking, it’s near the gorgeous Devil’s Lake State Park, which has some of the most stunning views in the state.
4. Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground - Idaho
Wagonhammer has pet-friendly campsites with an island full of trails where your dog can accompany you unleashed. Near those trails, there’s a pond where dogs can swim and cool off. Of course, dogs must remain leashed in the main camping area, but it’s nice to have a fun area that’s specifically for dogs to play.
5. Lake George RV Park - New York
This New York campground has something to offer for all types of travelers, including a Bark Park for canine companions. Charlie’s Bark Park is a 2-acre off-leash area for dogs, which includes a large dog area, small dog area, dog wash station, shaded walking trails, water fountains, a pet treat vending area, and agility events. From dawn to dusk, it’s the ideal dog hangout spot.
6. Riverside Campground & Cabins - California
Riverside Campground & Cabins not only allows pets at the campground, but they even allow them in cabins and rooms. They claim to be the only Big Sur campground that offers pet-friendly cabins. There’s a maximum of two pets per room and an additional fee, but it’s worth it because of all the gorgeous hiking trails nearby.
7. Tahoe Valley Campground - California
Pets are welcome at certain campsites at the Tahoe Valley campground, and there’s even a dog park for them to enjoy. It’s situated near the gorgeous Lake Tahoe, so there are plenty of scenic trails for you and your dog to check out nearby.
8. Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay - Delaware
Like many Sun Outdoors campgrounds, this one welcomes dogs. Even their beach cottages are pet-friendly, and there’s a dog park for your canine companion to play at. It’s a peaceful retreat right along the water. Even if Delaware isn’t convenient for you, check to see if Sun Outdoors has other pet-friendly campgrounds in your area.
9. Normandy Farms Campground - Massachusetts
Normandy Farms Campground has a gorgeous 1.5-acre dog park that includes a designated small dog area, agility equipment, a dog wash station, and a drinking fountain. If you plan to do some activities that aren’t dog-friendly during your stay, there are day kennels that you can rent so your dog will have a safe space while you hang out by the pool or go to a restaurant. The kennels are completely enclosed with water available.
10. Crow Wing Lake Campground - Minnesota
This beautiful campground is family-owned, and of course, the family has a dog of their own. There’s an off-leash pet park to give your dogs a place to get all their energy out. Plus, there’s a free dog washing and drying station, which is great since dogs can get pretty messy while camping. The camp store even offers some pet products like shampoo for visitors to purchase.
Safety Tips for Dog-Friendly Campgrounds
Camping can be a fun adventure, but it’s important to make sure your dog is safe at all times. The outdoor elements can be unpredictable, so even the healthiest, best-behaved dogs can be at risk if you’re not careful. Here are some safety tips to follow:
Always keep your dog leashed in areas that require it.
Provide water as much as possible (travel bowls are great for this).
Make sure they’re up-to-date on vaccinations.
Make sure they’re up-to-date on preventatives (flea/tick and heartworm).
Keep their collar with up-to-date ID tags on at all times.
Make sure their microchip information is correct.
Bring a dog first aid kit with you.
Consider a portable dog fence to keep around your campsite.
Regularly check your dog for ticks, burs, and debris.
Never leave your dog unattended.
Always clean up after your dog and dispose of waste appropriately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dogs Allowed in Yellowstone Campgrounds?
Yes, pets are allowed at Yellowstone campgrounds. However, they’re only allowed in developed areas of the national park to ensure the safety of them and wildlife. There are further restrictions on Yellowstone National Park’s website. With so many restrictions, it might not be the best destination for dogs.
Are Dogs Allowed at KOA Campgrounds?
Yes, many KOA campgrounds are dog-friendly. Some even have KampK9, which includes dog-friendly fenced-in areas and cleanup stations to make it easier to camp with your dog.
Are Dogs Allowed at Yogi Bear Campgrounds?
Yes, Yogi Bear campgrounds typically allow well-behaved dogs, but they might not be welcome in all areas of the campground. Most have a two dog maximum per camping site, and you may be asked to leave if your dog disrupts other visitors.
Dog-Friendly Campgrounds Make Traveling with Furry Friends Fun!
Leaving your dog behind on trips can be heartbreaking. So, consider visiting some dog-friendly campgrounds in the U.S. to include your dog on some adventures. I know camping isn’t for everyone, but it’s the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors with your canine companion by your side.
