Few experiences rival the joy of camping in the great outdoors—except, perhaps, doing it alongside your loyal canine companion. Whether you’re scaling mountains, relaxing by lakes, or wandering through lush forests, bringing your dog along transforms your adventure into something even more special. Fortunately, many campgrounds across the U.S. are dog-friendly, offering wide open spaces and natural beauty for both you and your pup to enjoy.
This guide will explore ten incredible places to camp with your dog in the United States, where you can both enjoy nature at its finest.
What to Consider When Camping with Your Dog
Before heading out, it’s important to be prepared. Not all campsites are equal when it comes to dog-friendliness, so here are a few key factors to keep in mind:
- Dog-Friendly Policies: Some campsites have restrictions on where dogs can roam, or they may limit certain trails. Always check beforehand to ensure that dogs are welcome in the areas where you plan to hike, swim, or camp.
- Safety and Comfort: Make sure your dog is comfortable with the surroundings. If you’re camping in bear or snake territory, take extra precautions. Bring a dog bed, extra water, and make sure they’re secure at night.
- Leave No Trace: This is an essential rule of camping, especially with pets. Always clean up after your dog and ensure they don’t disturb wildlife.
Now that you know what to keep in mind, let’s dive into the top camping spots for you and your dog across the U.S.
1. Acadia National Park, Maine
If you’re looking for a rugged, coastal adventure, Acadia National Park is an ideal spot to explore with your dog. The park boasts over 100 miles of pet-friendly hiking trails, offering stunning ocean views, forested paths, and mountain hikes. The cool, breezy climate is perfect for dogs, particularly during the summer months.
Why You’ll Love It
- Diverse Terrain: From rocky shorelines to scenic mountain summits like Cadillac Mountain, the variety of landscapes ensures you’ll never get bored.
- Pet-Friendly Camping: Acadia’s Blackwoods and Seawall Campgrounds both allow dogs, and nearby Bar Harbor offers plenty of pet-friendly accommodations.
Dog-Friendly Tips
Keep in mind that some trails can be steep, so bring plenty of water and take breaks if needed. Acadia is also known for its wildlife, so ensure your dog stays on-leash to avoid any run-ins with deer or other animals.
2. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park is one of the few national parks that allows dogs on nearly all of its hiking trails. Located along the Blue Ridge Mountains, it offers breathtaking views, cascading waterfalls, and meandering streams. The crisp mountain air and scenic overlooks make it a favorite for East Coast campers.
Why You’ll Love It
- Miles of Trails: With over 500 miles of trails to explore, including sections of the Appalachian Trail, you and your dog will have plenty to discover.
- Quiet and Serene: Shenandoah is less crowded than other parks, giving you the peace and quiet that many dog owners appreciate.
Dog-Friendly Tips
Some trails are rocky and steep, so consider your dog’s fitness level before embarking on longer hikes. Be mindful of ticks in wooded areas and do a thorough check after hiking.
3. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Camping at the Grand Canyon is an unforgettable experience, and the good news is you can bring your dog along for the adventure. While dogs aren’t allowed below the rim, they are welcome on the Rim Trail and in the Mather Campground, offering spectacular views of one of the most famous natural wonders in the world.
Why You’ll Love It
- Incredible Views: Even from the rim, you’ll get panoramic views of the Grand Canyon that are unlike anywhere else.
- Year-Round Destination: The Grand Canyon’s South Rim remains open year-round, making it a great destination whether you want to experience snow-capped views in the winter or sunny skies in the summer.
Dog-Friendly Tips
The desert climate can get hot, so always carry extra water for both you and your dog. Avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day and keep your dog on-leash due to the canyon’s steep drops and wildlife.
4. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho
Yellowstone is America’s first national park and a must-visit for any nature lover. While the backcountry is off-limits to dogs, many of the park’s campgrounds are dog-friendly, and you’ll find plenty of areas to explore. The Old Faithful geyser is a great spot to visit, as well as the Grand Prismatic Spring and other geothermal wonders.
Why You’ll Love It
- Unique Landscapes: From geysers to hot springs, there’s no shortage of stunning sights to see.
- Wildlife Viewing: Though you’ll need to keep your distance, Yellowstone is home to bison, elk, and even bears, making for an exciting trip.
Dog-Friendly Tips
Due to the park’s wildlife, it’s crucial to keep your dog on a leash at all times. Stick to well-traveled paths and avoid the backcountry for safety reasons.
5. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park, famous for its towering granite cliffs and waterfalls, welcomes dogs in developed areas and on paved trails. This makes it a great option for those who want to experience the beauty of the park without venturing too deep into the wilderness. The scenic drive through Yosemite Valley is also a memorable experience for you and your furry friend.
Why You’ll Love It
- Iconic Views: From El Capitan to Half Dome, Yosemite’s landscapes are some of the most recognizable in the world.
- Pet-Friendly Camping: Several of Yosemite’s campgrounds, including Upper Pines and Hodgdon Meadow, allow pets, making it easy to find a spot to camp.
Dog-Friendly Tips
Yosemite can get crowded, so plan to visit during the off-season for a more relaxed experience. Stick to the paved paths and always keep your dog hydrated, as some areas can get quite warm.
6. Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina
If you’re looking for a less touristy but equally beautiful place to camp with your dog, Pisgah National Forest is a top pick. Located in the Appalachian Mountains, Pisgah offers a variety of hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic campsites. The forest is also known for its rich biodiversity, offering a lush, green retreat for you and your pup.
Why You’ll Love It
- Waterfalls Everywhere: Pisgah is home to stunning waterfalls like Looking Glass Falls and Moore Cove Falls, many of which are accessible by dog-friendly trails.
- Cool Summers: Even in the summer, the forest’s higher elevation provides cooler temperatures, making it ideal for dogs.
Dog-Friendly Tips
Be cautious of fast-moving rivers and waterfalls, as they can be dangerous for dogs. Keep your dog on a leash, especially near the water.
7. Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park is one of the most pristine and remote national parks in the U.S., making it perfect for adventurous campers. While dogs aren’t allowed on the backcountry trails, they are welcome in campgrounds and along scenic routes, like the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. This park offers spectacular mountain views, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes.
Why You’ll Love It
- Majestic Scenery: Glacier’s towering peaks and expansive valleys offer jaw-dropping views that are hard to beat.
- Wildlife: The park is known for its wildlife, including mountain goats and grizzly bears, providing a thrilling backdrop to your camping experience.
Dog-Friendly Tips
The park can get chilly, even in the summer, so pack accordingly. Keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of bear activity in the area.
8. Olympic National Park, Washington
Olympic National Park is one of the most diverse parks in the U.S., featuring everything from temperate rainforests to rugged coastlines. While dogs aren’t allowed on most trails, they are permitted in many campgrounds and along the park’s beaches, making it an excellent option for those who want to camp with their dog by the ocean.
Why You’ll Love It
- Diverse Ecosystems: Olympic’s varied landscapes mean you can go from camping in a forest to exploring tide pools on the coast in a single day.
- Dog-Friendly Beaches: Dogs are allowed on Rialto Beach and in the Ozette area, offering beautiful ocean views and plenty of room to roam.
Dog-Friendly Tips
Be cautious of tides when walking on the beach with your dog. The park’s rainforests are also home to many small animals, so keep your dog close to avoid any encounters.
9. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Bryce Canyon is famous for its unique red rock formations known as hoodoos, and its otherworldly landscape is a must-see for anyone visiting the Southwest. Dogs are allowed in campgrounds and along paved areas like the Rim Trail, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the park’s stunning views with your furry friend.
Why You’ll Love It
- Unusual Landscapes: Bryce’s hoodoos make it one of the most visually striking parks in the U.S., offering a truly unique camping experience.
- Starry Nights: Bryce Canyon is known for its dark skies, making it one of the best places for stargazing.
Dog-Friendly Tips
The park’s high elevation means the nights can get cold, so be sure to bring a blanket for your dog. Stick to the paved areas and avoid the more rugged trails for your dog’s safety.
10. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Located along the Mexican border, Big Bend National Park offers vast desert landscapes, rugged mountains, and the Rio Grande River. While dogs aren’t allowed on trails, they are welcome in campgrounds and along scenic drives. The open desert spaces and quiet surroundings make Big Bend an underrated gem for camping with your dog.
Why You’ll Love It
- Remote Beauty: Big Bend’s isolation means you’ll likely have the park’s stunning views all to yourself.
- River Adventures: The Rio Grande River offers a refreshing escape from the desert heat, and while dogs can’t go on boats, they’ll love splashing along the shore.
Dog-Friendly Tips
The desert heat can be intense, so make sure to visit during cooler months or early in the morning. Always bring extra water for you and your dog.
Camping with your dog in the United States offers endless possibilities for adventure, whether you’re seeking rugged mountain terrain, lush forests, or serene beaches. The key is to plan ahead, make sure your dog is comfortable, and choose a destination that fits both your travel style and your dog’s needs.
With the right destination, you and your dog can create unforgettable memories, explore stunning natural beauty, and enjoy the best of what the great outdoors has to offer. Happy camping!
I’m Philippe Perrenoud, a passionate adventurer with dogs and an advocate for experiences that strengthen the bond between humans and their four-legged companions. My mission is to share practical tips so you and your dog can explore the world safely and joyfully. Together, we can turn every journey into an unforgettable memory!
