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Camping with your pets can enhance the overall experience—they might even love the great outdoors more than you do. And while most campgrounds and RV parks are accommodating of pets, there are a few extra things to consider if you want to bring your furry, four-legged friends along for the ride.
We’ve compiled a list of the seven most pet-friendly campgrounds and RV parks across the country, as well as some key takeaways to help ensure you and your pets have the best camping experience possible.
| FAQS: PETS & CAMPING | ||
|---|---|---|
| Q: WHICH CAMPGROUNDS OFFER THE BEST PET-FRIENDLY AMENITIES? | Q: WHICH NATIONAL PARKS ARE THE MOST PET-FRIENDLY? | Q: WHAT TYPE OF RV IS BEST FOR CAMPING WITH PETS? |
| A: Some campgrounds do have pet restrictions, including breed and size, so it’s beneficial to call and confirm before booking. Networks like Kampgrounds of America (KOA) are extremely accommodating to all pets—they even offer a dog-friendly KampK9 at most locations. | A: While leashed pets are welcome in many U.S. national parks, there are some exceptions (Yellowstone and Everglades). However, Congaree National Park has unrestricted access for all leashed pets. You can find a complete list of pet-friendly parks here. | A: There are some specific things to look for when choosing an RV that will accommodate your pets—temperature control, storage space, number of windows, and durable flooring. To help you get started in your search, check out these pet-friendly RVs. |
Many can agree that pets are like family. But unlike kids, pets are often not allowed, or have restricted access, in certain campgrounds, RV resorts and parks. These rules are usually in place due to property restrictions, to protect the surrounding wildlife or to limit excess noise. In fact, two of the top five most common campground complaints are about pets, so it’s extra important that owners know what to be aware of when choosing a place to stay.
First and foremost, you should always check to make sure that the campground or park you want to stay at actually allows pets. Even if the website mentions pets, be sure to call and ask if they have any breed or size restrictions, and if there is a limit on how many pets you can bring. It also doesn’t hurt to specify your type of pet—some campgrounds may allow dogs but not cats, for example. If the campground does allow pets, make sure you’re clear on the exact rules and policies. Some helpful questions to ask:
Once you’ve confirmed with the campground that your pet is allowed, check and see what type of pet-specific amenities they offer. Some things to look out for include a fenced-in dog park, cleanup stations, water fountains, an on-site groomer or self-service bathing station, and pet-sitting services. There may even be separate areas for small and large pets. And if the campground has a camp store, ask if they sell pet supplies—things like waste disposal bags, food, leashes, bedding, and toys.
When camping and RVing with pets, the number one priority should always be safety—both for your pet and the other people and animals around you. Before booking a site, be sure to research the campground or park’s location and see if it’s near a busy road or in a remote spot that’s hard to access. If the campground is in a desert or warmer climate, find out if there are shaded or grassy spots for your pet to cool off. It’s also important to know about the local wildlife—what wild animals are nearby? Pay especially close attention if the surrounding area is home to bears, mountain lions, snakes, or ticks. And lastly, be sure to check out a satellite view or some topographic maps of the area surrounding the campground. You’ll want to know if there are any natural hazards nearby, including steep cliffs, large ditches or fast-moving rivers.
