Camping with Dogs - Top Tips and Reminders!

Camping with your dog is an excellent way you can go on holidays with your pets, giving both you and your dog the chance to explore nature together. But not all campsites are equally dog-friendly, and finding the right spot can make all the difference in ensuring a safe, enjoyable adventure. Before setting off, be sure to check whether dogs are allowed at your chosen location, as some areas, like National Parks, have strict no-pet policies to protect local wildlife. By choosing the right campsite, like a private or pet-friendly caravan park, and doing a little pre-trip prep, you can make unforgettable camping memories with your pup.

What to look for in a dog friendly campsite

Our dogs are a valued part of our families, and these days there are increasing options available for camping. Check before you go however, as there are some spots where dogs are not allowed.

Privately owned campsites, such as those on HipCamp, offer unique dog-friendly sites often in a more secluded location with fewer guests, making them wonderful for an adventure with your pup. The human amenities at private sites may be limited, so start to get comfortable with the idea of a bush-toilet if necessary!

Pet-friendly caravan parks are handy for campers seeking convenience, with many offering dedicated dog off-leash areas, walking tracks and hydrobaths. They also are a great opportunity for controlled socialisation as there will likely be many other canine companions holidaying too. 

National Parks are set aside as a safe-haven for wildlife and you could incur hefty on-the-spot fines if you take a pet with you into most National Parks. Rarely, some National Parks offer free or low-cost camping sites, but most don’t allow doggos. Going for a drive? Your pooch is allowed to be inside the car while you drive through a National Park on a gazetted road. No stopping at day-use areas either, unfortunately. 

Before you go

A wee bit of preparation can ensure both you and your dog can relax and enjoy your adventure.

First up is to research and note where the nearest vet clinics are located, just in case your dog needs any unexpected medical attention. 

Before you head off, it’s a good idea to do a practice tent set-up at home. Not only will it help remind you which poles go where, but it also familiarises your pup with their new special safe space.

Going bush means creepy crawlies and shared unfamiliar spaces, so make sure their flea, tick and worming treatments are up to date. Check that your doggo’s microchip details, vaccinations and/or titre tests are current to keep them protected from diseases such as parvovirus and leptospirosis during your trip. 

Lastly, check the weather. Camping in the rain with a wet dog can be super fun, but it’s not for everyone!

What should I pack for my dog when camping?

To help you prepare for a happy, safe and comfortable camping trip with your pooch, here’s a handy list of must-have items for your furry camp-panion:

Mealtime

• Water and food bowls, collapsible bowls will save you valuable space
• Stored safe drinking water
• Dog food stored in water-tight storage containers
• Dry dog food (kibble) is a better option than raw dog food as it can be stored without refrigeration

Sleep and containment

• Bed and blanket, with insulated ground cover (e.g. rubber mat)
• Ground-tether (when supervised) 
• Leads (take 2 leads, one short and one extendable for adventures)
• Identification tag and collar (and GPS tag if you’ve got a wanderer!)
• Shadecloth 

Fun and enrichment

• Don’t bring bones with you as they may encourage wildlife or vermin
• Balls, kongs and licky-mats
• Poo bags 

First aid (check out our post on dog first aid kits here)

• Prescription medications your dog is on
• Antiseptic wound solution (e.g. hydrogen peroxide)
• Antihistamines (e.g. claratyne or telfast)
• Tick rinse (e.g. permoxin)

Campsite safety

Camping with animals can be exciting and unpredictable, so it’s important to keep a few safety tips in mind:

• Prevent access to campfires, as coals can remain dangerously hot even after the fire is out
• Keep your dog within your own campsite 
• Secure all rubbish in a lockable tub or elevated spot to prevent sneaky pups from eating leftovers or other campers’ food
• Watch out for wildlife, as kangaroos and snakes pose serious dangers
• Be mindful of supervised interactions with other dogs nearby to keep everyone safe and comfortable 

Behaviour at the campsite

Keep your camping experience smooth and relaxing for both you and your pup by paying attention to their behaviour and well-being. From managing recall and barking, to keeping them engaged, entertained and safe around other animals, you’ll set yourself up for success. 

Ready to go camping?  No stress! Let us know so we can pause your raw-food delivery to be ready for your return home!