Camping With Your Dog: Because Your Dog Deserves a Vacation Too

Camping with your dog in Minnesota? Learn what to pack, how to prepare, tent vs. camper tips, safety advice and dog-friendly campgrounds.

There are few things more wholesome than sitting around a campfire with your family, looking out over a Minnesota lake, and watching your dog happily explore the great outdoors.

Until your dog discovers a dead fish. Or a suspicious mushroom. Or someone else’s unattended hot dog.

Or decides that the middle of the night is the perfect time to announce that there is, in fact, a raccoon somewhere in the general vicinity.

Welcome to camping with your dog.

Taking your dog camping can be an absolutely fantastic way to spend a weekend together. Dogs generally love the sights, smells, trails, water and the sheer novelty of being somewhere that doesn’t contain the same four walls they’ve been staring at since Tuesday.

But camping with a dog requires a little more planning than throwing a leash in the car and hoping for the best.

Whether you’re pitching a tent, pulling a camper or heading out for your first Minnesota camping adventure, here’s how to make sure your dog enjoys the trip too—and doesn’t turn it into an episode of Survivor: Canine Edition.

Why Camping With Your Dog Is Actually Pretty Great

Let’s start with the obvious: dogs love being outside.

For a dog, camping is basically a sensory amusement park.

There are new smells everywhere. Trees. Water. Dirt. Wildlife. Other dogs. Campfires. Grass. Leaves. More smells. And then, just when they think they’ve figured everything out, another smell appears.

It’s exhausting in the best possible way.

Camping also gives you an opportunity to:

• Spend uninterrupted time together
• Explore new hiking trails
• Let your dog experience new environments
• Get plenty of physical exercise
• Practice obedience and leash skills
• Give your dog a mental workout
• Enjoy some much-needed time away from screens and schedules

And let’s be honest: watching your dog experience a lake, campsite or hiking trail for the first time is pretty darn fun.

It also gives you an excellent excuse to take approximately 147 photos of your dog sitting next to a tent. You know. For memories.

Definitely not for Instagram.

But Camping With a Dog Isn’t Always Easy

Before you start shopping for a matching human-and-dog flannel ensemble, there are a few things to consider.

Camping changes your dog’s normal routine. Their food, sleeping arrangements, bathroom schedule, exercise, surroundings and access to you can all be different.

Some dogs adapt immediately.

Others look at the tent, look at you and appear to be wondering why you have voluntarily chosen this new life. Know your dog.

A dog that is comfortable in new places, enjoys car rides, walks well on a leash and can settle down in unfamiliar environments is generally going to have an easier time camping.

If your dog becomes extremely anxious around strange noises, new people, other dogs or unfamiliar environments, a full weekend in the woods may not be their idea of relaxation.

And that’s okay. There is no prize for making your dog camp.

Before You Go: Do a Practice Run

If your dog has never camped before, don’t make their first experience a three-night trip six hours from home. Start small.

Set up the tent in your backyard.

Let your dog walk around it.

Give them treats inside.

Let them hang out in it while you read a book or drink coffee.

Then, if they seem comfortable, spend a night outside.

This lets you discover important things such as:

Does your dog think the tent is a terrifying fabric monster?

Will they settle down when they hear every squirrel in a three-mile radius?

Do they need to go outside every 45 minutes?

Do they believe sleeping bags are chew toys?

Much better to discover these things in your backyard than beside a lake at 11:47 p.m.

Tent Camping With Your Dog

Tent camping is probably the most adventurous—and potentially the most chaotic—option.

You’re sharing a relatively small amount of space with your dog, which can be wonderful.

It can also mean discovering that your 70-pound Labrador somehow requires 93% of the available sleeping area.

A few tent-camping tips:

Bring your dog’s own bed or blanket

Even if your dog is perfectly happy sleeping on the ground at home, a familiar blanket or bed gives them something recognizable in an unfamiliar environment.

Plus, it helps keep them from sleeping directly on your face.

A win for everyone.

Practice sleeping in the tent

Don’t wait until bedtime at the campground to introduce the tent.

Your dog should already understand that the tent is a safe, comfortable place.

Keep your dog secured

Minnesota state parks require pets to be kept on a leash no longer than six feet or effectively restrained by a portable enclosure, and pets must be attended at all times. Always check the specific rules where you’re staying because campground policies can vary.

In other words, camping is not the time to discover that your dog’s recall command is more of a suggestion.

Prepare for weather

Minnesota weather is famously committed to being unpredictable.

Your dog needs protection from heat, rain, cold and wind just like you do.

A shady campsite is important in warm weather, while a warm, dry sleeping setup becomes increasingly important as temperatures drop.

And remember: a tent is not climate-controlled.

Camper or RV Camping With Your Dog

Camping in a camper or RV gives you a few more conveniences—and potentially a few more opportunities for your dog to get into trouble.

You have walls. You have a floor. You may have air conditioning.

You may also have cabinets full of things your dog has suddenly decided are fascinating.

Before you leave, dog-proof the camper.

The ASPCA specifically recommends removing potential hazards such as rodent poison, mothballs and antifreeze from recreational vehicles before bringing your pet inside.

A camper also makes temperature management easier

This can be a huge advantage, especially in Minnesota’s summer heat.

But don’t assume that because your camper has air conditioning, your dog can simply stay inside while you head off for the afternoon.

Power can fail. Generators can stop. Temperatures can change.

And campground rules may prohibit leaving pets unattended.

Your dog should still be part of the adventure—or have another safe, appropriate care plan.

Establish a “dog zone”

Give your dog a specific place inside the camper for their bed, food and water.

This creates a familiar routine and helps prevent your dog from becoming the unofficial campground interior decorator.

What Should You Pack for Your Dog?

Here’s your basic dog camping packing list:

The Essentials

• Collar with current identification
• Leash
• Backup leash
• Harness, if your dog uses one
• Food
• Treats
• Food and water bowls
• Plenty of fresh drinking water
• Poop bags
• Dog bed or blanket
• Towels
• Dog-safe first-aid supplies
• Any medications
• Updated vaccination and medical records
• Recent photo of your dog
• Tick-removal tool
• Brush or comb
• Portable water bowl
• Long-lasting chew or enrichment item
• Dog-safe insect protection, if recommended by your veterinarian
• Flashlight or light-up/reflective collar
• Extra food

Yes, extra food.

Because the one thing you don’t want to discover at the campsite is that you accidentally packed precisely enough dog food for the number of days you planned.

Dogs, naturally, will respond to this logistical error by becoming extremely hungry.

The ASPCA and AKC both recommend bringing identification, medical information, medications, water, food and a pet first-aid kit when traveling with your dog.

For a more detailed safety checklist, the ASPCA’s current camping guidance is also worth bookmarking before your trip.

Don’t Forget the Water

Your dog may be surrounded by water at a lake and still need safe drinking water.

Don’t assume that lake, river or stream water is safe simply because your dog is willing to drink it.

Bring plenty of fresh water and a collapsible bowl or portable dog water bottle.

If you’re hiking, bring water with you rather than expecting to find a convenient stream approximately 20 minutes after your dog has decided they’re dying of thirst.

Watch Out for Minnesota’s Tiny Outdoor Menaces

Camping means sharing the outdoors with creatures that would very much prefer your dog didn’t eat them.

Keep an eye out for:

• Ticks
• Mosquitoes
• Bees and wasps
• Porcupines
• Skunks
• Snakes
• Wildlife
• Toxic plants
• Mushrooms
• Standing water
• Sharp sticks
• Fishing hooks and line
• Garbage left behind by previous campers

Ticks deserve special attention in Minnesota.

Check your dog thoroughly after hiking or spending time in tall grass and wooded areas. Pay particular attention around the ears, neck, toes, belly and other areas where ticks like to hide.

The AKC recommends checking dogs at the end of each day for ticks, foxtails, mats and other debris.

Because apparently nature believes dogs need accessories.

Campfire + Dog = Supervision Required

Dogs and campfires can coexist. They just shouldn’t be left to negotiate their relationship without adult supervision.

Keep your dog away from hot coals, flames and cooking equipment.

Be particularly careful with food around the fire.

That marshmallow you dropped? Your dog saw it.

That hamburger you left sitting on the picnic table? Your dog saw it.

That entire package of hot dogs?

Your dog definitely saw it.

Human food can also create problems for dogs, and unfamiliar foods are one of the easiest ways to turn a relaxing camping trip into an emergency veterinary visit. The ASPCA recommends keeping pets away from potentially toxic foods and checking your campsite for hazards before allowing your dog to explore.

The Wildlife Rule: Your Dog Does Not Need to Meet Everyone

Your dog may be fascinated by wildlife. That doesn’t mean the wildlife is interested in making friends.

Keep your dog leashed and supervised. Don’t allow them to chase wildlife or investigate animals, dens or burrows.

A curious dog running after a deer may look adorable for approximately four seconds.

Then they’re gone.

And you’re standing in the woods yelling their name while wearing flip-flops.

Keep the leash on.

Hiking With Your Dog

Camping and hiking go together like dogs and finding things they’re not supposed to eat.

Before heading out, check whether dogs are allowed on the specific trail and what leash rules apply.

Start with shorter hikes if your dog isn’t used to long distances. Remember that your dog may be having more fun than their body is prepared for.

Watch for:

• Excessive panting
• Limping
• Slowing down
• Excessive thirst
• Overheating
• Cuts or abrasions on paw pads
• Debris between toes
• Signs of exhaustion

And don’t forget to inspect your dog after the hike.

Their idea of “great hiking trail” may include rolling in something that was deceased several days ago.

Camping With Your Dog: The Tent vs. Camper Debate

Neither option is automatically better.

The best option is the one your dog can comfortably handle.

What About a Dog Who Doesn’t Want to Camp?

Here’s the thing:

Not every dog is a camper.

Some dogs love sleeping outside.

Some dogs hear a tree branch snap at midnight and immediately begin drafting a formal complaint.

If your dog is anxious, uncomfortable or simply miserable in an unfamiliar outdoor environment, there’s nothing wrong with leaving them home.

In fact, sometimes the best camping decision you can make is recognizing that your dog would rather spend the weekend somewhere they already know and love.

And that’s where a good dog boarding facility comes in.

At Dog Day Getaway, boarding includes a full day of daycare, so your dog gets plenty of exercise, socialization and attention while you’re off pretending to enjoy sleeping on the ground.

You can also learn more about our dog boarding experience or check out the dog daycare experience if your dog would rather spend the weekend playing than camping.

No judgment. Your dog doesn’t have to earn their wilderness badge.

Dog-Friendly Campgrounds Near the Twin Cities

If you’re looking for dog-friendly campgrounds near Apple Valley, Eagan, Rosemount, Lakeville, Farmington or the Twin Cities south metro, there are some excellent options within a reasonable drive.

Just remember to check the campground’s current pet rules and reservation availability before heading out.

Lebanon Hills Campground — Eagan

For south-metro dog owners, this is an obvious place to start.

Lebanon Hills Regional Park is close to Apple Valley, Eagan and Rosemount and offers extensive trails and outdoor recreation.

The campground is particularly convenient if you want a real camping experience without driving halfway across Minnesota.

And if the trip goes spectacularly wrong, you’re still close enough to home that you don’t have to explain to your children why everyone is going home at 1 a.m.

Dakota County’s current campground rules allow pets as long as they are on a static leash no longer than six feet, and the county offers both tent and RV camping options depending on the site.

Lake Byllesby Campground — Dakota County

Lake Byllesby Regional Park is another good option for south-metro campers who want a little more of a getaway.

The campground has both tent and RV options, although specific sites have different restrictions. Dakota County currently allows pets on a six-foot-or-shorter static leash.

The campground also sits near the lake and offers a change of scenery from the usual suburban weekend routine.

Which means your dog gets new smells and you get to spend an unreasonable amount of time figuring out where you put the bug spray.

Afton State Park

Afton State Park is another excellent option for Twin Cities-area camping and hiking.

Afton offers multiple camping styles, including backpack sites, hike-in camping, a wall tent, group camps, yurts and camper cabins.

Minnesota state park rules generally allow dogs when they’re leashed no longer than six feet or otherwise effectively restrained, although pets are restricted from certain buildings, lodging and designated areas.

Afton is a particularly nice choice if hiking is going to be a major part of the trip.

William O’Brien State Park

A little farther north, William O’Brien State Park offers camping, hiking and access to the St. Croix River.

The park has a number of trails, including the Riverside Trail, plus tent camping and camper cabins.

It’s a great option if you want a slightly bigger adventure without committing to a four-hour drive.

One Last Camping Tip: Leave No Trace

Your dog may be having the time of their life.

That doesn’t mean they should leave evidence of their visit everywhere.

Pick up after your dog.

Keep them on designated trails.

Don’t allow them to disturb wildlife.

Pack out your trash.

And leave the campsite as clean—or cleaner—than you found it.

Being a responsible dog owner helps keep campgrounds welcoming to dogs in the future.

Because nothing ruins dog-friendly camping faster than people being the reason dogs aren’t allowed anymore.

The Bottom Line

Camping with your dog can be an amazing experience.

It gives you a chance to slow down, explore, spend time together and let your dog experience a whole new world of smells, sights and adventures.

But the key to a successful dog camping trip is preparation.

Know your dog. Research your campground. Check the rules.

Practice before you go. Pack more supplies than you think you’ll need.

Bring plenty of water. Keep your dog secured.

Watch for wildlife, ticks, heat and other hazards.

And accept that at least one thing will probably not go according to plan. Because that’s camping.

And if everything goes perfectly, you can always assume your dog has something planned for 2 a.m.

Happy camping from all of us at Dog Day Getaway!

And if your dog decides that the great outdoors isn’t actually their thing, we’re right here in the South Metro.

Apparently, some dogs prefer their vacations to include climate control, indoor plumbing and people whose entire job is making sure they have a good time.

Honestly?

We can’t blame them.