Our dogs are our babies, so of course we want to include them in our outdoor adventures. Many campgrounds do allow dogs, but you may want to think twice if your dog is a barker or doesn’t do well on a leash. Campgrounds that allow dogs typically have a leash rule and dogs must be controlled at all times. You wouldn’t want Fido getting lost in the woods or getting hurt from a wild animal.
I know that many springs will only allow dogs in the campground areas and not to swim or be on the beaching areas. This means, if you want to go for a swim or hangout in other areas that won’t allow dogs, you’ll have to leave your dog back at the campsite. I know personally my dogs are not going to be happy campers left alone in a tent, or tied up to a post while I go out exploring, so I won’t bring them to those campgrounds.
There are however plenty of other things you can do with your dog while camping. I like to take my puppies hiking on trails. They love to sniff and explore new areas. Mark a little here and there. A bit of fresh forest air can do your pet a world of good.
If your dog is a swimmer, consider taking him or her on a kayak or canoe trip. If you travel a bit out of the main tourist swimming areas, you can jump in the water with your pup and take a refreshing lap or two.
Some pet rules to follow: Please be courteous and always clean up after your pet and dispose in a designated trash bin. Do not allow your dog to bark for hours on end, especially after or before quiet time. Don’t let your dog wander into other people’s campsites; respect other’s space. Make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date and you have a copy on hand in case asked by a park ranger or Fish & Wildlife. Most important, do not let your dog harass the wildlife!
Check out https://lovenaturegirl.com/pet-camping-guide-what-to-pack-for-fido/ for a checklist of items to bring if you are planning to camp with your dog.
Following these rules are so important for the parks to keep allowing you to bring your pets. If people take advantage, the parks will be forced to not allow dogs.
Love,
Nature Girl
