Top 9 for K-9s: The Best U.S. Campgrounds for Camping with Dogs
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COMING SOON
JULY 2022
Credit: April L
Location: Lake George, NY
Campground Details
Price: $109-$195
Number of sites: 425+
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
What makes it great:
The serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings of Lake George set the stage for a truly relaxing and immersive dog retreat. Lake George RV Park’s large range of services and amenities and expansive play area make it an ideal location for a getaway for humans and their four-legged friends.
There’s a pristine two-acre dog park — with shaded seating for humans — and a dog-wash station that allows pups to cool off and freshen up after a day of outdoor activities. Your furry friends will be able to romp and roam freely in securely fenced spaces, allowing them to exercise, and make new friends, all without worrying their owners.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“The whole family will love, including pets. I can't do justice to the dog park, it has to be the best dog park in USA.” — Matt T.
“Great sites, customer service & the best part is the dog park. This is a must visit park if you have dogs. Dog park is a 10 & like the entire park, it is immaculately kept.” — Dawn B.
“I’ve never seen such quite an amazing dog park in a campground before! Our dogs definitely think it was worth the extra money to stay there(hahaha). If we are in the area again we know where we are staying!” — Lisa D.
Credit: Shannon G
Location: Delaware, OH
Campground Details
Price: $17-$46
Number of sites: 316
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
What makes it great:
Alum Creek State Park goes above and beyond for its campers by also making sure their dogs’ visit is enjoyable too. The park boasts two large fenced-in fields — one for small dogs and one for the Cliffords of the world — and two large fenced-in areas with lake access.
There’s plenty of space for spirited games of fetch, romping with newfound friends or simply reveling in the joy of being off-leash. Tennis balls are available at all times, as well as clean water stations to keep the hounds hydrated.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“This was the only park we’ve gone to this year with both a large dog park AND a fenced in dog beach! Folks were friendly at the dog park with bunches of chairs set around like a conversation pit. Lots of water and dog tennis balls were available. The dog beach was fenced so your dog can be off leash. There is even a fenced in area out in the water to keep the pooches from swimming across the Lake chasing geese.” — Gary J.
“This park is unique for its dog park facility. 2 large fenced in field areas. One for small dogs, and one for large. There is enough room for several games of dog frisbee to happen at once. Then, there are 2 large fenced in areas for lake access. Balls, dog doo bags, trash bins…all there. Lots of shade, water fountains, and plenty of running room. I can't rave about this park enough!” — Dee S.
Credit: Josh W
Location: Tierra Verde, FL
Campground Details
Price: $38-$48
Number of sites: 238
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
What makes it great:
Fort De Soto Campground represents every dog’s dream campground — a seaside getaway filled with sun, sand and wagging tails. Fort De Soto offers one of the best dog beaches in the country, a haven where pups can run free and really feel the sand between their paw pads.
The campground offers two fenced dog parks with seats, shade and on-site dog wash stations that provide a convenient place for dogs to rinse before leaving the beach. This premier destination is designed to cater to every aspect of your furry friend's well-being, offering the ultimate canine escape.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Loved staying here and loved being able to have access to one of the best dog beaches in country. We def went here for our girl who loves chilling on the beach.” — Josh W.
“There is a TOTALLY AWESOME DOG BEACH which was definitely the main reason I picked the park to visit. A nice stretch of beach where my dogs had an excellent time playing in the water, weeds and sand. There are two fenced dog parks with seats, shade and dog wash areas to rinse off the sand before heading back out.” — Shelly S.
Credit: Joel R
Location: Charleston, SC
Campground Details
Price: $35-$70
Number of sites: 134
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
What makes it great:
Just a short drive from downtown Charleston, the Campground at James Island County Park offers an idyllic getaway where dogs can play, sleep and sniff to their heart’s delight. With 643 acres of lush greenery, sparkling streams and rolling hills, this campground provides a truly enriching experience for curious curs.
One of the most appreciated parts of the campground is the extensive dog park where water-loving pups can enjoy the lake and splash around and cool off on warm days. James Island County Park also has many hiking trails that serve as a great precursor to a trip to the doggy beach.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“There are a lot of shaded picturesque walking and bike trails in the park. The dog park was amazingly big, with a little doggy beach for water lovers.” — SummertimeRVrovers J.
“Lovely campground with forested, private sites. Palm trees and oak trees with Spanish moss. Nice hiking trails. Phenomenal dog park.” — Kathy L.
“Awesome dog park with separate areas for large and small dogs, a water park, climbing wall, bike/walking path and much more.” — Jen B.
Credit: Michael K
Location: Stow, OH
Campground Details
Price: $15-$18
Number of sites: 27
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
What makes it great:
Surrounded by green fields and serene walking trails, Silver Springs Campground is a great setting for doggos to explore, exercise and take in the great outdoors. The biggest attraction is Bow Wow Beach, a spectacular area where dogs can swim, chase birds or just lie down and recharge after a day of adventure. They’ll be barking about it for days.
Silver Springs exemplifies the true spirit of dog-friendly camping, offering a sanctuary where pups can thrive. With its inviting atmosphere, tailored amenities, breathtaking surroundings and commitment to the happiness of canine guests, this campground is a top destination for dogs and the humans who love them.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Bow Wow Beach Dog Park (in the same park area as the campground) was awesome if you have dogs that like to swim or just need to get some energy out after being leashed while camping.” — Hannah S.
“Despite having an aggressive dog, we were able to check out Bow Wow Beach nearby because we went early enough in the morning that nobody was around. The dog park is really fun and offered a great opportunity for our dog to run around before we got back on the road.” — Christina V.
“Right nearby there is a dog park called Bow Wow Beach:-) our dog absolutely loved it! We biked from our site!” — Michael K.
Credit: RL
Location: Virginia Beach, VA
Campground Details
Price: $28-$40
Number of sites: 200+
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
What makes it great:
First Landing State Park is extremely spacious with well-maintained areas for your four-legged best friend. A spectacular dog park sits right next to the ocean, specifically designated for pooches to roam, play and socialize.
The park prioritizes the safety and comfort of every furry camper, and even if dogs need to stay on the leash, they can still enjoy an awesome beach day with their humans. The lovely hikes through scenic trails at First Landing State Park provide an optimal opportunity for dogs to stretch their legs and explore new scents.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Dogs are totally allowed on the beach as long as they are on a leash during any time of the day or night.” — Bridget H.
“Beautiful park right next to the ocean. Dogs loved it and no one complained about dogs being on the beach.” — Kelly J.
“This park is a dog friendly, peaceful gem where you can choose to hike just in the woods or even hike to the beach.” — Kristy B.
Credit: Jenn
Location: Tucson, AZ
Campground Details
Price: $35-$135
Number of sites: 400+
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
What makes it great:
Tucson - Lazydays KOA offers plenty of space for your dogs to enjoy a stress-free stay. Safety and comfort are a priority at Lazydays, as dogs are able to play in an expansive park with built-in shelter from the scorching sun or sudden showers. This KOA site is optimal in most weather conditions, so there’s no excuses to be cooped up inside.
Nearby nature trails wind through and around the campground, providing paths for scenic walks where dogs can trot around and explore the sights, sounds and smells of this desert oasis.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Plenty of space, the best dog parks ever!” — Kellee
“Solar shades provide clean power to park. Large and shaded dog park area for the fur babies.” — Christy C.
“I have two dogs, but this koa had a dog park that i was able to take them to in order to get all of their energy out before the long car trip.” — Jill R.
Credit: Brandy C
Location: Spencer, TN
Campground Details
Price: $8-$32
Number of sites: 252
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
What makes it great:
Waterfalls, cascades and streams make every step of the journey at Fall Creek Falls State Park an opportunity for dogs to enjoy a stimulating environment. This campground is renowned for its commitment to provide a truly exceptional dog-friendly experience, and the gorge swimming hole is only one of the many places your dog can enjoy a refreshing swim.
Whether it's hiking through forests, strolling alongside the water or climbing hills, these trails offer a chance for dogs to explore and discover new sights and sounds, all while enjoying quality time with their owners. For dogs seeking a more tranquil experience, the campground also offers more serene nature trails where they can enjoy leisurely walks alongside babbling brooks and shaded paths.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“The camping areas are great for walking dogs and just getting out, deer tend to live in the campsite areas as we kept seeing the same does with their fawns daily.” — David P.
“The trails were nice. The scenery beautiful. The gorge swimming hole was a hit with my daughter and dog.” — Rachael H.
“Even though it was warmer than we had hoped, we enjoyed our hikes and creek swims with our dog everyday.” — Jenny P.
Credit: Jenny P
Location: Littleton, CO
Campground Details
Price: $36-$41
Number of sites: 197
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
What makes it great:
From shaded woodland paths to picturesque lakeside trails, every step of the journey at Chatfield State Park is an opportunity for dogs to escape the ordinary and indulge in zoomie-filled adventures. The 25-acre dog park offers an expansive off-leash area, allowing dogs to run, chase tennis balls, engage in spirited games of “tag,” or simply enjoy their freedom.
Pet parents can relax and watch their dogs having fun, knowing that safety measures are in place to ensure a worry-free experience. Dogs can also enjoy a swim in the big lake to refresh, unwind and recharge.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“The biggest dog park around (25 acres), many endless, open spaces/trails for biking and ‘hiking’/walks/runs (mostly flat grounds).” — Sunny B.
“The dog park is by far the best. Off leash- so much room; well taken care of and big lake for the dogs to swim.” — Jenny P.
“Our site was on the western side of the loop, which gave us a great view of the mountains and lake. It was also very close to the walking trails which our two dogs loved.” — Jayme J.
Credit: Rebecca E
Location: Keuka Park, NY
Campground Details
Price: $18-$25
Number of sites: 150
RV sites: Y
Fires allowed: Y
Pets allowed: Y
What makes it great:
Keuka Lake State Park is a sought-after spot in the Finger Lakes wine country in upstate New York. Vineyard-covered slopes, glimmering water and clear blue sky set the scene for the perfect escape. Keuka is one of the warmer Finger Lakes and is an ideal place for swimming and relaxing on the beach.
Keuka Lake State Park is also a great destination for a range of outdoor recreational activities including hiking, swimming, boating and, of course, fishing. The lake is considered one of the best places to fish in upstate New York.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“The sites are all super spacious and private. The lake and picnic areas are just amazing. We stayed for a week and honestly didn't want to leave.” — David S
“This was our first time at the park and we will definitely be back! The lake temperature was perfect for taking a swim. It is a beautiful lake and campground.” — Laura C
“Perfect place to drop your boat in and play in the water. The lake offers many options for any type of boat.” — Karen G
A previous version of this list mistakenly named Wonder Lake in place of Teklanika River.
Top 9 for K-9s: The Best U.S. Campgrounds for Camping with Dogs
After humans, the next most common species to enjoy camping on planet Earth is dogs.
According to our 2023 Camping Report, about half of America’s 80 million campers put the “pup” in “pup tent” in 2022. With about 76 million dogs in the U.S., we reckon that means around half of them went camping last year!
Each year, The Dyrt recognizes amazing campgrounds with the Best Places to Camp and Glampy Awards. But we realized a large portion of the camping population was not being factored into these award programs: Where do dogs like to camp?
With more than 8 million photos, reviews and tips of U.S. campgrounds, The Dyrt has no shortage of K9 content submitted from our camping community. Using AI, we zeroed in on the campgrounds where campers like to bring four-legged friends. Then we subjectively ranked them based on those reviews and photos as well as dog amenities offered.
Release the hounds! These are the best places to unleash a K9 camping experience in the U.S.