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These Campgrounds Roll Out the Red Carpet for Your Pet
Planning a pet-friendly RV trip means finding campgrounds that work for the whole crew, paws included. That might be as simple as a safe place for morning walks, or as memorable as watching your dog splash in a lake or trot down a forest trail. More than half of RVers (52% to be exact) travel with pets, according to recent studies., so it’s no surprise that some campgrounds have gone the extra mile to make pets feel welcome.
Why Pet-Friendly Amenities Matter
Traveling with a pet adds another layer to every decision you make on the road. The right campground takes some of that load off. Amenities designed with pets in mind make routines easier, give them a safe place to adapt to new surroundings, and create more ways to include them in your plans.
When those needs are met on-site or even nearby, you spend less time problem-solving and more time enjoying where you are. That’s the difference between a trip where your pet simply comes along and one where they’re truly part of the experience. The following four campgrounds show how thoughtful amenities, great locations, and local flavor can make a pet-friendly RV trip unforgettable for both you and your furry co-pilot.
Bethpage Camp-Resort – Urbanna, Virginia
Bethpage Camp-Resort in Urbanna, Virginia, is a great stop on a pet-friendly RV trip for travelers who enjoy being near the water. Located along the Rappahannock River, which flows into the Chesapeake Bay, the resort has a boat ramp where you can launch a kayak or canoe and explore the surrounding waterways with your dog.
On-site pet amenities include fenced-in dog parks and a designated dog-walk area with grass and shade for easy exercise and quick breaks. Pet-friendly cottages are available for visitors who aren’t in an RV.
For a treat, the resort’s ice creamery has outdoor tables where dogs are welcome. In town, restaurants like Portside Grill on Urbanna Creek offer pet-friendly patio seating with views of the marina.
“…pet friendly and two dog parks!”
Ann2mauibeach | RV LIFE Campgrounds
Mt. Hood Village Campground – Welches, Oregon
Set in northern Oregon’s Mount Hood National Forest, Mt. Hood Village Campground gives you and your dog direct access to the outdoors. Trails from the campground lead straight into the Wildwood Recreation Site, a scenic area with riverside paths and shaded forest perfect for leashed walks. Nearby favorites like Salmon River Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Tamanawas Falls Trail offer more ways to explore the region together. In winter, several sno-parks are close by, providing opportunities for snowshoeing and other cold-weather activities where dogs are welcome.
On-site, the campground is shaded by tall trees that help keep summer stays comfortable. Pet-friendly lodging options include yurts, cottages, cabins, and tiny homes for travelers without RVs. The camp store stocks essentials for both people and pets. And a grocery store is just a short drive away for anything else you might need.
“Nice quiet wooded campsites…Short hike to a beautiful river. Kid and pet friendly. Lots of amenities and activities. Staff is friendly and accommodating.”
Jpat34721 | RV LIFE Campgrounds
Pacific Dunes Ranch Campground – Oceano, California
For a pet-friendly RV trip with sand and surf just steps away, Pacific Dunes Ranch Campground is hard to beat. The campground borders the Oceano Dunes SVRA and is close to Pismo State Beach. Leashed dogs are welcome on the beach and designated trails. Morning walks can start with ocean views. And the wide, open shoreline gives pets plenty of space to stretch their legs.
A well-marked path from the campground leads directly to the sand. This makes it easy to enjoy the coast without packing up for the day. Guests who travel with horses can even arrange boarding at the resort, giving equestrians a rare chance to explore the nearby dunes and coastal trails on horseback.
“…the park is right next to the dunes, which makes it very special. Loved walking my dog over the dunes.”
Xoxo | RV LIFE Campgrounds
Plymouth Rock Campground – Plymouth, Wisconsin
Set next to Little Elkhart Lake, Plymouth Rock Campground is an inviting place to settle in with your dog. The lake is just steps from campsites. You can launch a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard right from the park, with your dog joining you for the ride. Calm waters and easy access make it a relaxing spot for pets to enjoy the shoreline or spend time on the water.
Around the campground, there’s plenty of space for walks under the trees. Open grassy areas provide room for leashed play. Pet-friendly cabin rentals give non-RV travelers a way to bring their dogs along without compromise.
“…The grounds are well kept and the staff is very helpful and friendly.”
MommaOlive123 | RV LIFE Campgrounds
Smart Pet Travel Tips for Your Next RV Adventure
| Even the most pet-friendly campground can’t plan the whole trip for you. A little preparation makes it easier for your dog to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
🐾Pack a “paw kit.” Include collapsible bowls, a portable water container, a leash and backup leash, waste bags, and any medications your pet needs. For coastal trips like Pacific Dunes Ranch, add a towel to dry off after beach walks. 🐾Protect their paws. Forest trails at Mt. Hood can be rocky, while summer sand and pavement heat up quickly. Consider paw balm or booties for comfort and safety. 🐾Know the local rules. Leash laws can vary between state parks, beaches, and recreation sites. Always check posted signs to avoid surprises. 🐾Plan for seasonal conditions. Sno-parks near Mt. Hood welcome winter visitors, but your dog may need an extra coat. In warmer months, aim for early morning or evening activities to avoid heat stress. 🐾Have ID on them at all times. A collar with tags and an updated microchip can help reunite you if you’re separated in an unfamiliar area. 🐾Locate a nearby vet. Whether you’re paddling at Plymouth Rock or strolling Urbanna’s marina, know where the closest veterinary clinic is before you need it. |
Plan Your Next Pet-Friendly RV Trip
If these four stops have you picturing your dog trotting down a trail or curling up by the fire after a day outside, they’re just the beginning. Thousand Trails has more than 200 pet-friendly campgrounds across the US and Canada. This means you can plan adventures that fit your style, whether that’s coastal sunsets, forest hikes, or lazy days by the lake.
From a quick weekend getaway to a weeklong escape or a full season at an annual site, there’s a spot ready to welcome you both. Check out the full list of pet-friendly locations and start mapping out your next trip, paws and all.