Camping with your dog can be a brilliant way to spend time outdoors together. It gives them fresh air, new smells and plenty of adventure, but it also takes a little more planning than a trip without a pet. The key is to keep things safe, familiar and comfortable so your dog can settle in quickly and enjoy the experience.
Checklist: Before You Go
- Book a dog-friendly campsite
- Check your dog’s vaccinations and flea/tick treatments
- Update ID tag and microchip details
- Pack all essential gear
- Research local vets and save their contact details
- Check local rules on dog access and leads
- Practice recall and lead walking
- Test your dog’s reaction to the tent at home
- Plan dog-friendly walks and activities
- Pack extra food, water, and treats
How to Choose a Dog-Friendly Campsite
Choosing the right campsite can make all the difference when you are camping with a dog. A dog-friendly site should feel relaxed, easy to navigate and safe for both you and your pet. It is worth looking beyond the headline “dogs allowed” label and checking the details before you book.
Start with the basics. Some campsites welcome dogs across most of the site, while others only allow them in certain pitches or outdoor areas. If your dog is lively, nervous or still learning campsite behaviour, a quieter, more spacious site is often the better option. Facilities matter too: easy access to walking routes, water points and waste bins can make the stay much simpler.
It is also worth thinking about the environment around the campsite. Woodland, riverside and coastal locations can be brilliant for dogs, but they may also bring more distractions, mud or livestock to avoid. A campsite with clear rules, good spacing between pitches and nearby walks is usually the best balance of comfort and convenience.
Top Dog-Friendly Campsite Chains
- Camping and Caravanning Club
- National Trust campsites
- Pitchup.com (use the ‘dogs allowed’ filter)
On The Campsite
Once you arrive, give your dog time to adjust. Let them sniff around on the lead and explore their surroundings at their own pace. It is usually better not to let them run straight off into the excitement of a new place, especially if there are other campers, dogs or wildlife nearby.
Keep an eye on campsite rules as well. Some sites allow dogs in most areas, while others have restrictions, especially in communal spaces or near certain facilities. A lead is often the safest default, both for your dog and for everyone around you. Even the friendliest dog can become overwhelmed or overly enthusiastic in a busy campsite.
Best Dog-Friendly Camping Destinations in the UK
The UK has plenty of great camping spots for dogs, from coastal escapes to peaceful countryside stays. The best destinations usually combine open space, good walking routes and a welcoming approach to dogs. That means your trip feels like a holiday for both of you, not just a logistical exercise.
The Lake District is one of the UK’s best dog-friendly camping destinations, with endless walking routes, lake-edge paths and plenty of open space for energetic dogs. Head to Keswick, Ambleside or Windermere for easy access to scenic trails, then give your dog a proper adventure on routes around Ullswater, Grasmere or Buttermere. Many dogs will also love a splash at places like Derwentwater or along the quieter shores of Coniston Water, making this a brilliant choice for walkers and water-loving pups alike.
Cornwall is ideal for dogs that love sea air, sandy paws and long coastal walks, with plenty of campsites near beaches and cliff paths. Base yourself around Padstow, St Ives or Newquay for access to some of the county’s best dog-friendly stretches, then head to beaches such as Perranporth, Watergate Bay or Carbis Bay where dogs can enjoy the coast. The South West Coast Path also offers endless walk options, so it’s a great pick for active dogs and owners who want a mix of beach time and adventure.
The Scottish Highlands are perfect for dogs that thrive on wild landscapes, big views and quiet trails, with huge areas of open country to explore. Stay near Fort William, Aviemore or Loch Ness for access to some of the region’s best walking and camping spots, then take your dog on scenic routes around Glen Coe, Ben Nevis or the shores of Loch Lomond. If your dog loves space and you want a truly dramatic camping backdrop, this is one of the most rewarding places to go.
The Yorkshire Dales is a fantastic dog-friendly option thanks to its rolling hills, riverside walks and charming countryside campsites. Base yourself around Grassington, Hawes or Kirkby Lonsdale to reach some of the best walking routes, including trails to Aysgarth Falls, Malham Cove and the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail. With plenty of peaceful paths, streams and classic pub stops along the way, it’s a great destination for dogs that enjoy a good walk without the crowds.
The Brecon Beacons is a brilliant choice for dog owners who want open mountain scenery, waterfalls and space to roam. Look for campsites near Brecon, Abergavenny or Crickhowell to make the most of the area’s walking routes, then explore highlights like Pen y Fan, Three Cliffs Bay nearby for a beach option, and the waterfalls around Ystradfellte. It is especially good for active dogs that love hiking, with plenty of varied terrain and rewarding views.
Essential Gear Checklist
- Collapsible bowls
- Enough food for the trip, plus extra
- Treats and chews
- Portable water filter (for wild camping)
- Reflective harness and lead
- LED collar or clip-on light
- Up-to-date ID tag with your mobile number
- GPS tracker (for adventurous dogs)
- Dog first-aid kit (tick remover, antiseptic wipes, bandages)
- Poo bags (biodegradable preferred)
- Flea and tick treatment
- Paw balm (for rough terrain)
- Dog towel
Sharing a Tent With Your Dog
Sharing a tent with your dog can be one of the best parts of a camping trip, but it works best when everyone has a clear space and a familiar routine. The goal is to make the tent feel calm and comfortable, rather than cramped or overexciting. A little planning before bedtime can make a big difference to how well your dog settles.
Start by giving your dog their own spot in the tent, ideally with a bed, blanket or mat they already know. This helps them understand where they are meant to rest and gives them something familiar in a new environment. If your dog is prone to moving around, bringing a longer lead or keeping the tent zipped safely can help prevent any midnight wanderings.
Vestibule or Porch Area
A tent with a generous vestibule or porch is a real asset. This covered area can be used for:
- Storing muddy boots, wet coats, and your dog’s gear
- Wiping down paws before entering the main sleeping area
- Feeding your dog under shelter in bad weather
- Providing a shaded spot for your dog to relax during the day
Temperature is another important factor. Tents can get warm quickly, so make sure there is enough ventilation and that your dog has space to stretch out comfortably. On colder nights, a blanket or insulated bed can help them stay cosy without needing to snuggle too close to your sleeping bag.
Camping With Puppies or Older Dogs
- Make sure they’re fully vaccinated before camping.
- Start with short trips and familiarise them with the tent at home.
- Bring chew toys for teething.
Puppies
- Make sure they’re fully vaccinated before camping.
- Start with short trips and familiarise them with the tent at home.
- Bring chew toys for teething.
Older Dogs
- Choose campsites with level ground and short walks.
- Bring an orthopaedic bed for comfort.
- Watch for signs of stiffness or fatigue.
FAQs
No-dogs can overheat or become distressed. Always supervise your dog.
Yes, especially in Scotland. Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and leave no trace.
Ensure your dog’s microchip and ID tag are up-to-date. Contact local vets, dog wardens, and use social media to spread the word.
Low Wray (Lake District), Treyarnon Bay (Cornwall), Glen Nevis (Scottish Highlands), and Hawes (Yorkshire Dales) are all highly rated.
Most UK sites prohibit them; use a fixed lead under 2m.
Use AllTrails’ “dog-friendly” filter or local OS Maps.
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