A Complete Guide to Camping With Dogs

Camping is even better when you bring your best friend along, and for many people, that means bringing their dog. From hiking trails to cozy nights under the stars, camping with your companion can be a rewarding experience. However, it does require some preparation to ensure your pet remains happy, safe, and comfortable during the trip.

This guide will help you plan everything you need to know about camping with pets, especially in Pennsylvania. Let’s get started with what to do before you go.

Before You Go Camping Checklist

Taking your dog camping can be a daunting task, especially if this is their first time. Before you leave, make sure Rufus is ready for the adventure. Use this checklist to prepare:

Vet Checkup: Your vet can ensure your dog has all the necessary vaccinations and is physically fit enough for outdoor adventures.
Preventative Routines: Nature has a multitude of hazards that you won't find at home, so starting a flea, tick, and heartworm regimen can help safeguard your pet.
Basic Commands: Going camping can be very unpredictable. If your dog can follow basic commands, this ensures that you can at least predict what they will do in an emergency.
Plan where you’ll go: It’s important to make sure that your campground allows pets, like they do at Hartman Center Campground. It's also important to locate a nearby animal hospital in case of an emergency.

A little planning goes a long way in keeping your dog safe and healthy. Doing these things beforehand can provide a sense of security, ensuring that you have a fun and stress-free time with your furry friend.

What to Bring When Camping With a Dog

Pack these items to make camping easier and more enjoyable for your canine companion:

Essentials:

Leash and harness with ID tags
Dog food for camping and collapsible bowls
Fresh water supply
Waste bags
Vaccination and vet records

Comfort and Gear:

Dog bed or blanket
Favorite toys or chews
Portable crate or soft-sided playpen
Weather gear (jacket or cooling vest)
Tether or long lead for the campsite

Health and Safety:

Pet-safe bug spray
First aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, tweezers)
Any medications your dog needs
Flashlight for night walks

Don't forget to pack everything you need as well! You wouldn't want to be living off your dog's food, and they might not like sharing either.

Safety Tips for Camping With a Dog

When camping with pets, safety is the top priority. Follow these tips to avoid common hazards:

Leash up: Even friendly dogs should stay leashed in public areas, as this can protect them from strangers or wild animals who might not be as pleasant.
Pet-proof your campsite: Look for sharp sticks, trash left behind by other campers, or harmful plants.
Secure food and trash: Prevent wildlife encounters by storing food securely in a locked bin or the car.
Avoid leaving your dog alone: Use a crate or tie-out if you must step away. Leave your pup with a trusted family member or friend who is familiar with their commands and behavior.
Know Where to Go in an Emergency: For those near our campground, that would be the Big Valley Animal Hospital.

How to Make Camping With Dogs Easier

New environments can be stressful for both of you. Follow these tips to make the camping experience a little more relaxed.

Stick to a routine: Keeping your pooch on their normal schedule for meals, walks, and sleep helps reduce anxiety and ensures their behavior stays consistent.
Use treats for training: Pack your dog’s favorite treats to reinforce commands and reward good behavior in new and distracting environments.
Choose shaded campsites: Set up your tent in a shaded area so your dog can stay cool and rest comfortably during hot parts of the day.
Bring something with your scent: A blanket, shirt, or toy that smells like you can help your dog feel secure and relaxed when adjusting to unfamiliar surroundings.
Take it slow: Let Fido explore the campsite at their own pace, especially if they’re nervous or shy. Avoid overwhelming them with too much too soon.

Keep things calm, consistent, and fun. Your dog will enjoy the trip more with structure and comfort.

Outdoor Activities for Dogs

Camping opens the door to many outdoor adventures for your furry friend. Even though they are outside, they still might need an outlet for all their “zoomies”. Here are some dog-friendly things to do:

Go hiking together: Many trails near campgrounds are dog-friendly. Keep them leashed and carry water to keep them hydrated along the way.
Play fetch at the campsite: Bring a favorite ball or toy to help your dog burn off energy in a safe, open space near your tent or RV.
Let them splash in clean water areas: If the campground allows it, shallow streams or lakes can be a fun way for your dog to cool off and play.
Try scent games: Hide treats around your campsite and let your dog sniff them out. This provides mental stimulation and keeps them engaged.
Take evening walks: Cooler temperatures in the evening are ideal for short strolls. Use a lighted leash or collar so your buddy stays visible in low light.
Relax by the fire together: After a day of activity, dogs enjoy relaxing just as much as humans do. Let them rest near you on a blanket or bed while you enjoy the fire.

Not all dogs are the same! Choose activities that match their energy level and comfort with nature.

What to Do After Camping With Your Pet

After a fun camping trip, it's essential to care for your pet before returning to your normal routine. A little post-camp attention helps keep them healthy and ensures they're ready for your next outdoor adventure.

Check your dog for ticks: Carefully inspect areas such as behind the ears, between the toes, under the tail, and around the neck, where ticks often hide after outdoor exposure.
Clean their gear: Wash your pet’s bedding, food bowls, and toys to remove dirt, allergens, or bugs that may have hitched a ride during the trip.
Schedule a grooming session: A professional grooming visit at Arlo’s Pet Grooming is a great way to remove burrs, excess dirt, and any other debris your dog may have picked up outside.
Monitor their health: Keep an eye out for signs of illness like vomiting, limping, fatigue, or changes in behavior that could point to injury or infection.

Taking these simple steps will help your pet rest, recover, and stay healthy, so they’re ready for your next outing together.

The Internet's FAQ for Camping With Your Dog

How do I stop my dog from barking when camping?

Keep your furbaby busy with toys and treats. Use a calm tone to correct barking. Avoid campsites near high-traffic paths if your dog is reactive to other canines or people.

How to keep a dog warm while camping?

Let your “mangy mutt” sleep inside your tent. Use blankets, an insulated pad, and a warm jacket for colder nights. If you notice that they are shivering, it wouldn't be a bad idea to go sleep with them for a moment until they can warm up.

How to keep dogs cool while camping?

Provide lots of water, take breaks in shaded areas, and use cooling mats or vests. Walk during the cooler parts of the day.

Do dogs like camping?

Most of them love it! Camping offers new smells, open air, and time with you. Just introduce the experience slowly if it’s their first time.

Camping With Your Pet in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a great place to explore with your pet. With its scenic trails, wooded landscapes, and peaceful campgrounds, it offers the perfect backdrop for a relaxing trip with your furry companion. Many sites across the state are pet-friendly, but it’s always a good idea to check local or state park websites to confirm current pet policies and any rules you’ll need to follow.

Where to Camp With Your Pet in Pennsylvania

If you're planning a trip with your furry companion, Hartman Center Campground is one of the top pet-friendly destinations in Pennsylvania. With a variety of stays and flexible pet policies, it’s a great place to relax and explore together.

RV Sites

Spacious full-hookup RV sites include electric, water, and sewer connections, which are perfect for a cozy stay with all the comforts of home. Pets are allowed on all RV sites with no weight limit, no extra fees, and a maximum of three pets per site.

Tent Sites

Looking to fully rough it in the outdoors? Tent sites provide a peaceful and classic camping experience. Pets are welcome and can enjoy the outdoors right alongside you.

Cabins

Fully furnished one- and two-bedroom cabins offer comfort and convenience for families and small groups. Dogs under 35 lbs are permitted in cabins with applicable pet fees. All pets must be registered on your reservation.

The Hartman Lodge

Hosting a larger group? The lodge sleeps up to 48 and includes a full kitchen, common area, and private porch. Pets under 35 lbs are allowed here as well.

No matter how you choose to stay, Hartman Center Campground makes it easy to include your pets in the adventure.

Hartman Center Campground Full Pet Policy

All dogs must have rabies vaccination papers emailed to hartmancentercampground@gmail.com at least 24 hours before arrival.
Pets must be attended to, leashed, and cleaned up after at all times. A $30 fee will be charged for any dog waste left on the grounds.
Pets are allowed on all RV sites.
Pets over 35 lbs are only allowed in the Primitive Cabin.
Pets staying in cabins must be registered on your reservation. Additional fees apply. Unregistered pets will be added to the reservation and charged automatically.
Shedding pets are not allowed on furniture. A $50 fee will apply if hair or damage is found on any furniture.
If a pet over 35 lbs is found in any cabin other than the Primitive or Rustic Cabins, a $100 per night fee will be charged.
Maximum of 3 pets per site.

The Ulti-Mutt Guide to Camping With Your Dog