This Lil' Dog of Mine

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Camping With Your Dog 101

Happy almost Summer, TLDOM family! Our previous blog discussed some tips for traveling with your pet during the summer. This blog will provide some helpful tips for camping with your furry friend. Whether planning a camping trip with your family and friends or going solo, these tips will be helpful. Let’s start with a list of dog-friendly campsites in Texas: 

  1. Redbud Ranch RV Resort

  2. Bastrop State Park

  3. Big Bend National Park 

  4. Buescher State Park

  5. Enchanted Rock


If you’re in the planning phase, that is our first piece of advice and the perfect place to start. Plan ahead - be sure to research the campsites you have in mind. It’s essential to be aware of things like leash requirements, barking ordinances, and whether there are some breeds that they consider aggressive and are, therefore, restricted. Your planning process should include scheduling a visit with your vet. Ensure your dog is microchipped, up to date on vaccinations, groomed, and healthy before your nature adventure.


Make sure you are equipped with all the camping essentials for your dog.

  • A current photo, just in case your pup gets out on their own and you need help finding them, having a current picture of them to reference is helpful. 

  • Lots of toys (outdoor safe) - provide your dog with various activities so that they enjoy the trip just as much as you.

  • An attachable ID tag

  • Dog first aid kit - cotton bandages, cotton wool or lint to clean wounds, mild pet-friendly antiseptic to wash wounds, and tweezers for removing stings or objects from the mouth.

  • Stock up on your dog’s favorite dog treats. 

  • Medical records 

  • A camping-friendly leash – consider also including a stake or tether.

  • Air tag or GPS collar 

  • Water/Food Bowls 

  • Water, lots of water


During your trip, it is super important to keep your dog hydrated, especially if you’re in a climate known for brutal summers. To prevent overheating, watch for panting, heavy breathing, restlessness, weakness, disorientation, agitation, dry gums, and a bright red tongue. 

Keep in mind that dogs can suffer from outdoor allergies just like humans. Our blog library offers tips on managing allergies.  Remember to protect those paws, especially if you plan hiking or exploring. 

Safety is the most important thing; watch out for harmful wildlife and always keep your dog with you. The next important thing is that you and your dog have a good time! We hope this helps you prepare for your summer fun. If there are camping destinations that you highly recommend for camping with dogs, leave us a comment and tell us where!