Top 10 Dog-Friendly Campgrounds Across the U.S.

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Destinations
• USA

Camping is more fun when you can bring Fido along, and choosing one of these dog-friendly campgrounds ensures your next adventure in the woods is enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.

When you crave a dose of nature, camping becomes an ideal option — offering a change of scenery, a refreshed mindset, and, for many of us, a touch of nostalgia. Although it might seem straightforward to bring your pup, finding local dog-friendly campgrounds can be more challenging than anticipated.

Many campgrounds exist in protected areas like national parks or near wildlife preserves. Others may avoid accommodating pets due to potential complications with multiple dogs in close proximity. Consequently, some campgrounds enforce a no-dog policy. While you could leave Fido at home, is camping truly enjoyable without your stick-loving, four-legged companion?

To assist in your search for dog-friendly campsites, we have compiled a list of the best options across the U.S., with support from Campspot, a campground platform offering a convenient “pet-friendly” filter.

4 Paws Kingdom Campground & Dog Retreat in Rutherfordton, North Carolina

If you’re kid-free and wish to pamper your pooch, visit 4 Paws Kingdom Campground & Dog Retreat. This unique campground is designed exclusively for dogs and their owners (who must be 18 or older). Here, you’ll find RV sites, cabins, and yurts, but the standout feature is the pet-focused amenities. Your pup can indulge in a grooming session at the puppy spa, meet new friends in spacious off-leash dog parks, or enjoy a splash in the campground’s private pond (don’t forget to bring some floating toys).

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort in Luray, Virginia

If you have dogs and children, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort in Luray, Virginia, is an excellent option. Nestled near the Blue Ridge Mountains, this pet-friendly campground provides a delightful blend of nature and family-friendly activities, including a water park, mini-golf, and an outdoor movie theater.

Once the kids tire of the numerous on-site activities, encourage them to tackle a section of the Appalachian Trail via the pet-friendly Tanners Ridge Road. As a reward, treat them to ice cream cones at Main St Flavors and give Fido some recovery treats from Finn, a pet supplement company that understands your dog’s needs.

Riverside Campground & Cabins in Big Sur, California

At Riverside Campground & Cabins, you can park your RV, pitch a tent, or stay in a dog-friendly cabin. Nestled amidst towering redwoods along the Big Sur River, you have access to numerous dog-friendly beaches and hiking opportunities just minutes away. Make sure to take a trip to the dog-approved Pfeiffer Beach, where you can watch for whales and dolphins. If the weather is sunny, consider protecting your pooch’s eyes from the bright ocean glare with a pair of sunglasses.

Sun Outdoors Moab Downtown in Moab, Utah

Moab, Utah, is the perfect basecamp for exploring Canyonlands and Arches National Parks, featuring majestic rock arches and towering pinnacles. The dog-friendly Sun Outdoors Moab Downtown offers tent sites, RV hookups, and cozy cabins, along with amenities like laundry facilities, showers, a pool, and an on-site general store. As Moab can be extremely hot and arid, ensure you carry a dog bowl with you. We recommend the lightweight and collapsible option from Ruffwear.

Sagadahoc Bay Campground in Georgetown, Maine

This campground, which operates from May to October, was founded by dog lovers who understand that camping is as much about your pooch’s enjoyment as it is about your own getaway. Located on the southern tip of Georgetown Island, Sagadahoc Bay Campground features cozy tent sites with ocean views. For those who prefer not to tent camp, RV sites and cabin rentals are also available. Given Maine’s chilly nights, consider outfitting your dog with a sleeping bag to keep them warm.

Sun Retreats Texas Hill Country in New Braunfels, Texas

The spacious Sun Retreats Texas Hill Country covers 32 picturesque acres in Texas’ beautiful Hill Country. With plenty of entertainment options for humans—such as pools, a game room, and a playground—this campground also offers pet-friendly RV and vacation rentals, as well as a dog park. After you and your pup enjoy the resort amenities, take a short drive to San Antonio, approximately 40 minutes away, or to Austin, which is less than an hour. Don’t forget to bring a backseat cover for your car to keep it clean.

Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains in Granby, Colorado

Offering a perfect blend of modern facilities, stunning mountain vistas, and an Old West atmosphere, Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains in Granby presents dog-friendly RV sites and quaint mountain cottages. Within half an hour, you can access hiking trails in Rocky Mountain National Park or kick off a snowshoeing adventure in Winter Park. To protect your pup’s paws in the snow, ensure they have a set of winter dog boots — Ruffwear offers reliable options that dog lovers highly recommend.

Dark Sky RV Campground in Kanab, Utah

For a night of stargazing with your pup, consider the Dark Sky RV Campground in Kanab, Utah. This boutique, 40-acre campsite is located far from light pollution, but close to breathtaking national parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon. Tent camping isn’t allowed, but the campground provides pet-friendly RV and truck sites with optional patios featuring hammocks, chairs, and propane fire pits. Amenities include a laundry room and spa-like bath suites with outdoor showers. All dogs must be leashed on-site; consider investing in a GPS-enabled collar for added safety.

Elkamp Eastcreek in Mineral, Washington

Situated between Portland and Seattle, Elkamp Eastcreek is a beautiful spot for dogs exploring the Pacific Northwest. Located just 20 minutes from Mount Rainier National Park, this site boasts numerous pet-friendly RV and tent sites. While dog-friendly trails abound, a summer visit provides the most variety, as the Crystal Mountain Trail System opens up to pets, and dogs are permitted to ride the Mount Rainier Gondola. Washington is known for rainfall; however, keep your dog’s paws clean with secure booties from Canada Pooch.

Lost River Valley Campground in North Woodstock, New Hampshire

Located in a national forest in North Woodstock, New Hampshire, Lost River Valley Campground offers dog-friendly glamping sites that cater to pups accustomed to a pampered lifestyle. Cabins accommodating up to six guests include air-conditioning, heating, and kitchens with essentials like fridges, grills, and stovetops. For a more rustic experience, tent sites are available beside a babbling brook. Amenities such as showers and water bottle refill stations are conveniently located near the office. There’s a swimming beach, as well as courts for volleyball, tennis, and basketball. If you’re around the fire, ensure your dog is on a tie-down leash, preferably one with a swivel clip to avoid tangles.