It is a disappointment to know that you can’t bring your dog to most national parks if you enjoy taking your dog with you on all your adventures. Additionally, when camping in the usual manner, your dog is usually required to be on a leash at all times, which reduces the enjoyment for both of you. Furthermore, developed campgrounds tend to be crowded and less visually appealing, making your trip less than perfect.
Luckily, there are public lands available where you can let your dog run freely and connect with nature. This is where dispersed camping becomes useful, as defined by the National Forest Service as camping “anywhere outside of a designated campground.” This type of camping allows you to camp without the presence of assigned campsites, bathrooms, and other facilities, creating a more secluded and immersive outdoor adventure.
Before embarking on your journey, it is important to gather information about dispersed or BLM camping with dogs. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that you have the appropriate camping gear for your canine companion. Although it may require additional preparation, bringing your dog along for a camping trip in public lands can result in a remarkable and memorable adventure.
In this post, we will discuss our top choices for campsites in Northern California, Lake Tahoe, Southern California, Coastal California, and Glamping sites that are suitable for pets.
Casini Ranch Family Campground
Campers can enjoy a memorable experience by staying at a campground in the Russian River Valley that offers family-friendly, pet-friendly, nature-filled accommodations. The campground provides cottages, RV sites, and tent sites, all nestled along a one-mile stretch of the Russian River.
If you want to experience mild weather, consider visiting Casini Ranch Family Campground during the summer months. The temperatures remain relatively mild throughout the year, but the warmest temperatures can be expected in July and August.
At the Casini Ranch, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained, both on-site and locally. You can enjoy weekly bonfires, fenced-in dog parks, and sporting activities on the property. If you’re looking for more adventure, you can also explore the nearby Willow Creek State Park, which offers an abundance of hiking trails that go on for miles.
Cloverdale Wine Country KOA
Discover a variety of RV and tent sites surrounded by century-old oaks, eucalyptus, and evergreen trees, or opt for a luxurious cabin located atop the valley to enjoy breathtaking vistas. While this camping site in California warmly welcomes furry companions, please note that Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and Doberman Pinschers are not allowed on the premises.
The ideal time to travel to Cloverdale Wine Country KOA is during the summer months, when temperatures in the 80s create perfect conditions for fishing, boating, and hiking.
This KOA, which has won awards, provides a pool on a hillside, a spa, a nature trail, a fishing pond, and paddle boats. In addition, it hosts various events and is conveniently situated near excellent bike loops, vineyards, and hiking trails.
Fallen Leaf Campground
This campground, situated a quarter mile north of Fallen Leaf Lake, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It can accommodate numerous individuals with its extensive facilities including over 200 standard tent and RV sites, six yurts, and coin-operated showers.
The periods with the fewest crowds are March to May and September to November, which are also when the weather is warmest. However, the Fallen Leaf Campground is open exclusively from mid-May to mid-October.
Fallen Leaf Campground presents a multitude of outdoor recreational opportunities and serves as an excellent base camp. To gain insights into the interpretive programs and guided walks, one can visit the Taylor Creek Visitor Center located directly across Highway 89. For those seeking a more strenuous hiking experience with their pets, it is worth exploring the hiking options available in the Desolation Wilderness.
Boulder Basin Campground
There are 34 camping sites in the San Bernardino National Forest. These sites offer both scenic beauty and solitude. The camping options are primitive and include campfire rings, grills, a picnic table, and vault toilets.
Boulder Basin Campground’s opening from May to October is an ideal match for the warm and dry weather characteristic of southern California.
The most popular hike near Boulder Basin Campground is Black Mountain. Normally, it is only a quick mile from Boulder Basin Campground, totaling an 8.7 mile out and back. This hike will take you to the lookout tower, which is located at 7,772 feet.
Dogs are permitted in San Bernardino National Forest, the location of Boulder Basin campsite. Moreover, the Boulder Basin campground website affirms the permissibility of dogs.
Bolsa Chica State Beach
At Bolsa Chica State Beach, tent camping is prohibited. However, there are 50 campsites where RV camping is permitted, and these sites offer electric and water hookups.
If you want to enjoy pleasant weather without the large number of people that usually come during the summer, pay a visit to Bolsa Chica State Beach. You will also have the opportunity to witness extraordinary events like the ISA World Surfing Games and Oktoberfest.
Huntington boasts a dog beach that welcomes all dogs and their owners, provided they follow good etiquette guidelines, such as responsibly cleaning up after their pets and ensuring their dogs stay non-aggressive and well-behaved at all times.
Luxury Safari Cabin Tent
The Luxury Safari Cabin Tent is one of the rare campsites in California that allows pets. It provides exquisite views and a designated area where dogs can freely explore the beautiful surroundings of the property while glamping.
It is advised to go to this property during early fall and late spring for the most enjoyable visit. The tent is equipped with a fireplace, heated blankets, and a hot tub. However, it does not retain heat effectively which can result in cold winter nights. Likewise, the tent does not include air conditioning which can make summer temperatures quite uncomfortable.
In the nearby Cleaveland National Forest, specifically in Love Valley Meadow, there are numerous opportunities for off-leash hiking. Another option is to hike in Los Coyotes Reservation, which will lead you to the highest point in San Diego, Hot Springs Mountain.
What You Need to Know About BLM Camping with Dogs
To put it briefly, the acronym BLM refers to the Bureau of Land Management. BLM lands offer affordable and secluded camping options because they are usually unspoiled areas of public land.
Those who wish to allow their dogs to roam freely on public lands can choose from the dispersed camping options available, which is a privilege not afforded in places such as National Parks. By embarking on a dispersed camping excursion, you can not only observe the scenery but also allow your dog to explore without restraint.
Why Camp With Your Dog?
Camping can be an amazing way to bond with dogs of any energy level. You not only strengthen the connection with your furry friend, but also have the opportunity to explore and engage in physical activity together. Moreover, going camping means you don’t have to worry about paying a pet sitter, which is a significant advantage.
Bringing your dog along when you go camping offers the advantage of having an additional pair of eyes and ears to ensure your safety and vigilance. Due to your canine’s keen sense of smell, you will most likely become aware of any nearby wildlife well in advance compared to spotting other animals.
If you have a high-energy dog, it is even more important for you to bring your constant companion with you on an adventure into public lands. This will provide your dog with a large and open space to freely roam and play, which is ideal for releasing their accumulated energy.
Tips for Camping with Dogs
Plan How You’ll Keep Track of Your Dog
The first thing you should do is to tag your dog and ensure that they can be tracked – especially if you intend to let them roam without a leash. Giving your dog the chance to run freely is something they will definitely enjoy, but it is important to ensure they have proper identification in case they go missing.
Remember Your Outdoor Ethics
Going on an adventure with your dog is bound to be a memorable experience for both of you. However, it is important to ensure that you are knowledgeable about responsible outdoor enjoyment with your pet.
When you go camping with your dogs, it is important to remember the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace. This includes planning ahead and familiarizing yourself with any pet regulations that apply to the particular site. Additionally, there are various factors concerning your dogs that you should be conscious of during camping.
Put Safety First
To ensure both you and your dog’s safety while camping, it is important to plan in advance and collect the required safety equipment. This includes pet first aid kits, canine visibility vests, and doggie life jackets, all of which will help protect your dog from potential harm throughout the trip.
