Amazing Outdoor Destinations to Explore with Your Pet

Pet owners know how hard it is to leave their best pals behind. That’s why being able to share a fun-filled camping trip with your dog is an amazing experience! Take them to a great location and create an opportunity to bond and make memories together. We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: dogs live the life we give them! So give them the gift of boundless adventure.

In this blog, we’ve picked a few popular dog-friendly spots in different states to camp together this year. While leash laws may still apply in some areas, your pet will love the fresh air, open spaces, and quality time. For glampers and campers alike, here are some unforgettable spots you and your pet will love!

1. McKinney Falls State Park, Texas

Just outside of Austin, is a great place to camp with your dog. McKinney Falls State Park offers lots of outdoor recreation! Located right on the beautiful Onion Creek, campers can fish and swim! There are certain swimming areas off-limits for pets. This includes the Upper and Lower Falls area, according to Texas Parks & Wildlife. However, you can explore miles of hiking, biking, geocaching, and more together. Enjoy quality time with your pet– kick back creekside, and cozy up for a campfire at the end of the day. Learn more, here.

2. Deception Pass State Park, Washington

This is one of the most stunning and beloved destinations on the Washington coast. Woodsy cliff-sides and rocky beaches will keep your pup curious and happy. Enjoy the salty air, and spend hours on the beach spotting seals, otters, and sometimes even whales! In the forest, you may find deer, bird varieties, and coyotes. Pets are welcome to camp and leash laws apply at the campground and on beaches. Learn more, here.

3. Alila Ventana, Big Sur, California

The Alila Ventana Resort at Big Sur is the ultimate glamping destination. This dog-friendly glamping experience features endless spa-quality amenities. Not to mention the location itself is incredible. If you’ve got a fancy pet– and you don’t mind a little luxury yourself– book a stay here. Their website even says, “We know dogs are more than just pets; they’re part of the family” (Ventana Big Sur). Guests can bring up to two dogs, and beds and bowls are included at their site. Learn more, here.

4. Cherry Creek State Park, Aurora, Colorado

This one’s for the laid-back people and pups. And it really has something for everyone! There are miles of hiking and biking trails. Enjoy swimming beaches, places to paddle, fish, ride horses, and the list goes on. This park is open year-round with amenities. It’s a dog-friendly park, with leash laws at the campground. But the best part? There is an off-leash dog park! Dog owners must purchase a daily pass for a small fee. But here, dogs can roam free for endless rounds of fetch and puppy socializing. Learn more, here.

5. Ricketts Glen State Park, Pennsylvania

Ricketts Glen State Park is massive! Pets and people can enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming, and more. Campers can even enjoy a wide range of events hosted at the park. Pets are allowed throughout the park. Just ensure that they are comfortable with varying terrain.

This state park offers a large campground that is open all spring, summer, and fall. Like most areas, service animals are welcome. Even better, these campsites are ADA-accessible.

Pets are welcome at the campground for an extra fee. Learn more, here.

Tips for Finding Pet-Friendly Camping Destinations

These are just a few of tons of pet-friendly camping locations throughout the country. Do your research! Discover a pet-friendly camping destination near you to plan your next adventure. Websites like BringFido are great resources for discovering a place to stay together. Or, simply contact the national or state park you want to visit. Find out from rangers what the pet policy is, and plan accordingly.

Pet-Friendly Outdoor Adventures

The outdoors is the best place to connect with your pet. When you’re not lounging at the campsite, here are some outdoor activities you can enjoy together. 

Hike Together

Hit the trail with your trusty pup! Dogs love a chance to experience new terrain, scents, and other brave hiker dogs. You may know the map, but your dog doesn’t! Give them a real thrill and sense of discovery as they traverse the trail alongside you. Remember to abide by leash laws, according to trail policies. Check out AllTrails for guidance and clarity about pet policies.

Swim at Dog-Friendly Beaches

Some beaches will require you to keep dogs on leashes unless they’re swimming. If you are lucky to have a private campsite by the water, that’s even better! Your dog will love their unlimited access to jumping in with you. 

If your doggy paddler is new to the water, equip them with a dog lifejacket. These are available at most outdoor retailers or online. Be careful of tides, currents, and water conditions. And stay accessible to your pet while they’re swimming (they can’t tell you if they have a cramp).

Play Endless Rounds of Fetch

Nothing beats a classic game of fetch! Find a large open field or dog-friendly beach, and get the zoomies out. Especially for active breeds, this is a surefire way of tuckering them out before bedtime. 

If you’re keen on packing light, don’t worry about having fancy dog toys with you. Find the perfect stick, and they’ll just be happy to play! If you do bring any tennis balls or toys, just be sure to keep track of them. You don’t want to leave anything behind!

Best Pet Gear For Your Adventures

With the right gear, your pet will have a comfortable camping trip. Consider their sleeping comfort, durable materials, and more.

Camping with pets can get messy, stuffy, and a little crowded– especially at night! Give them their very own sleeping space with a luxury canvas pet bed. Canvas is both insulating and breathable. This means enhanced comfort for your pet. And for you, too! A canvas camping tent remains breathable, highly durable, and easy to clean. So no more need to worry about muddy pawprints, stuffy nights, and damage to your tent.

Bring some extra gear for your dog, too. Durable booties for their paws come in handy on hot days and unpredictable terrains. A light for their harness increases nighttime visibility. Lifejackets for swimming are a must, too! Whatever outdoor activities you plan to do, consider how your dog will do, and if they need any gear to help!

It’s Time to Plan Your Next Adventure Together!

Take your pets on new adventures and experience one of the most rewarding parts of being a pet owner. Give your dog the trip of a lifetime, and open up a whole new passion for them! Camp in the wilderness, or glamp at a dog-friendly resort. Whichever you choose will open their eyes to new opportunities. Camping together doesn’t just heighten their excitement for life. It will also stimulate their curiosity and instinctual senses. It creates opportunities for them to explore and bond with you. 

In the same way that exploring a new place with friends and family inspires you, it will inspire your pet as well. You’ll be able to see the positive shift in their mood, and in your own, too! If you get rained out on a hike, it’s much easier to be happy when your dog is unbothered and just glad to be outside! Having pets indeed enhances our daily lives. So why leave them at home? With just a little extra research, planning, and pet fees here and there, they can tag along. 

From coast to coast, there are so many hidden gems or places to camp with your pets. From coast to coast, there are so many hidden gems or places to camp with your pets. Whether you’re coastal camping in Washington, or tucked in the forests of Pennsylvania. And everywhere in between! Check out one of these amazing destinations, or discover one close to home. And everywhere in between! Check out one of these amazing destinations, or discover one close to home. 

Keep their comfort in mind. Pack the right gear, toys, and a positive attitude. Remember that canvas is a foolproof, dog-friendly material. It’s durable, easy to clean, and temperature-regulating. You won’t have to worry about any extra messes or stuffy nights. Plan for any other gear that may enhance their comfort on your adventures, too.

Witness your dog’s excitement as their world expands. And use this opportunity to build trust and see the natural world in a whole new way. 

Happy camping!