10 of the best pet-friendly camping destinations in the US
Hitting the road in an RV allows you to bring the entire family along for the ride, and sometimes that includes your pets. Of course, bringing Fido requires some extra planning, as not every campground allows pets. PetFriendlyTravel.com offers a list of pet-friendly campgrounds in every state, as well as information about bringing pets to campgrounds in National and State Parks.
During your research, be sure to find out the rules regarding pets, as every campground has different ones, including when dogs need to be on leashes, where dogs are allowed to go (some don’t allow them around pools or beaches), and cleaning up after “bathroom breaks.”
Here are a few more tips from PetFriendlyTravel.com:
“Make sure your dog is healthy and up-to-date on all required vaccinations, particularly rabies. And, remember to bring your pet’s proof of rabies vaccination, as many campgrounds require it for entry. Ask your vet whether your dog should be vaccinated against Lyme disease, a tick-borne disease. Discuss appropriate flea and tick control. Be sure your dog is protected against heartworms, which are transmitted by mosquito bites and have been reported in all 50 states, according to the American Heartworm Society.”
Below are 10 of the best pet-friendly camping destinations throughout the U.S.
1. Pelican RV Resort & Marina – Marathon, Florida
This resort in the heart of the Florida Keys gives you 300 feet of secluded waterfront along Florida Bay. If you’re a fisherman (or woman), this is the ideal spot as there are 16 boat slips. You can also rent a fishing boat for day trips. On land, there is a swimming pool and beach area with a tiki hut. There is also a dog area where Fido can have playtime.
2. Ocean Lakes Family Campground – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Located at the southern end of Myrtle Beach, Ocean Lakes features 310 oceanfront acres, with nearly a mile of beachfront. The kids will enjoy the Sandy Harbor Family Fun Center where you’ll find a Splash Zone, pool, mini golf, and more. Water-loving dogs will be able to enjoy time on the beach, but note there are restrictions for when dogs can be on the beach from May 1 through Labor Day.
3. Four Paws Kingdom – Rutherfordton, North Carolina
You might have guessed from the name that this campground is extremely pet friendly. In fact, it is called “The First and Only Dog Dedicated Campground in the US.” Nestled in the foothills of the North Carolina mountains, this resort offers dog training, agility parks, special events, a variety of hiking trails where dogs are free to roam, and a doggie bathhouse and grooming station.
4. Jellystone Park – Quarryville, Pennsylvania
Yes, that Jellystone. Yogi Bear is the host at this campground and resort in Southern Lancaster. Kids will enjoy Yogi’s Water Zone and Splash Pad, the jumping pillow, and plenty of other outdoor activities. Meanwhile, Fido will love the fenced-in “bark park,” complete with an obstacle course for more adventurous dogs.
5. Hid’n Pines Family Campground – Old Orchard Beach, Maine
This quiet family oasis in Southern Maine offers a variety of activities, including beautiful beaches, quaint shops, an 18-hole golf course, restaurants and more. Those with water-loving dogs take note…this campground allows dogs on the beach (though there are restrictions on when from Memorial Day to Labor Day).
6. Evergreen Park RV Resort – Dundee, Ohio
This quiet retreat is not far from Ohio’s Amish country, so there is plenty for the humans to explore and discover. There are also a variety of dog-friendly nature trails where you can all go hiking together. If your dog needs a little pampering, there is an onsite dog grooming facility as well.
7. Garden of the Gods RV Resort – Colorado Springs, Colorado
If you need a mountain getaway, head to Colorado Springs and this beautiful resort, which offers spectacular views of Pikes Peak. There is a “bark park” and many of the hiking trails are dog friendly, as well. Plus, there are plenty of activities for the humans among you.
8. Zion River Resort – Virgin, Utah
Outdoor enthusiasts looking for breathtaking scenery and plenty of hiking should head here. Located beside the Virgin River, this campground is minutes from Zion National Park and you’re close enough for day trips to Bryce Canyon National Park, Grand Canyon North Rim, Cedar Breaks National Monument and other popular Southwest attractions. There is also an off-leash dog area that offers access to the river for dogs that love the water.
9. Casini Ranch Family Campground – Duncan Mills, California
This family and pet-friendly campground is located in the Russian River Valley in Sonoma County. There are two dog parks where your pooch can run free, plus plenty of activities for the humans, including a beach bonfire and hayrides.
10. Olympic Peninsula/Port Angeles KOA – Port Angeles, Washington
You can’t get much prettier than the Pacific Northwest, and this campground near Olympic National Park offers many opportunities for hiking and other outdoor adventures. There is a dog park for the pooches, and wagon rides and ice cream socials for the humans (though your dog might enjoy the ice cream, too).
Camping with the family pooch makes for an extra special adventure. These are just a handful of the pet-friendly campgrounds in the U.S. We hope you (and your dog) have the time of your lives exploring everything this beautiful country has to offer.
