Camp Coach Joe

Pets

Camp Coach Joe · Pets

Bring the Whole Pack!

Your furry family members want in on the adventure too. From tail-wagging trail dogs to surprisingly outdoorsy cats, here’s how to camp with (and sometimes without) the four-legged crew.

See the Gear Checklist
A leashed dog resting beside a tent at a campsite

Best Buds on the Trail

Camping with Dogs

Dogs and campgrounds go together like s’mores and campfires. But before you load up the truck, a little prep keeps everyone’s tails wagging. Straight from the folks at AKC, NPS, and REI, here’s the rundown:

  • Bring up-to-date vaccinations and ID tags
  • Microchip your dog (just in case)
  • Always use a leash — 6 ft max at most campgrounds
  • Pack a collapsible water bowl and a dog first-aid kit
  • Give them their own sleeping pad
  • Don’t forget waste bags
  • Check campground pet policies in advance
  • Keep them close at night — wildlife is real

Yes, Really

Camping with Cats

Yes, cats can camp! We know, we know — but adventure cats are absolutely a thing. The trick is prepping at home before you hit the trail:

  • Harness and leash train them at home first
  • Bring a soft-sided carrier and familiar bedding
  • Pack a portable litter box
  • Keep them inside the tent at night
  • Never leave them unattended outside
  • Choose quieter, less crowded campgrounds
A harnessed cat exploring near a tent at a campsite
A small pet bunny in a shaded secure enclosure at a campsite

The Small & Mighty

Other Pets — What About the Rest?

Birds, bunnies, guinea pigs and other small animals can sometimes come along — but they need extra planning. These little adventurers are delicate, so cover your bases:

  • Temperature control is a must
  • Use secure enclosures
  • Bring familiar food and water
  • Keep plenty of shade on hand
  • Most campgrounds have strict rules — always call ahead

Don’t Leave Home Without It

Pet Gear Checklist

Screenshot this one, coach. Tick every box before you pull out of the driveway and you’ll be the most prepared pet parent at the campground.

Pet camping gear laid out on a blanket
  • Food & water bowls
  • Leash & harness
  • Waste bags
  • Pet first-aid kit
  • ID tags & microchip info
  • Vaccination records
  • Familiar bedding
  • Flea/tick prevention
  • Pet-safe insect repellent
  • Cooling mat for hot days

The Kindest Choice

Leaving Pets at Home

Sometimes the most loving thing you can do is leave them home. No guilt here — a happy, comfy pet beats a stressed-out one every time. Set them up for success:

  • Hire a trusted pet sitter (Rover.com or Pet Sitters International)
  • Consider boarding if your pet gets anxious alone
  • Leave detailed care instructions
  • Keep their routine as normal as possible
  • Set up a camera so you can check in
  • Make sure they have enrichment toys
  • Cats can usually handle 24–48 hrs alone with prep; dogs need daily visits at minimum
A content dog resting comfortably at home with a toy
A calm senior dog resting comfortably on a porch

Real Talk from Coach Joe

Signs Your Pet Isn’t Ready to Camp

Not every pet is a trail warrior, and that’s totally okay. Watch for these signs before you commit to the campground:

  • Anxiety around strangers or new environments
  • Not leash trained
  • Reactive to other animals
  • Medical conditions requiring climate control
  • Senior pets with mobility issues

It’s okay to leave them home — they’ll be there when you get back!