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Camping With Dogs: How to Pack for a Tail-Wagging Good Time Outdoors

Updated: May 5

If the phrase camping with dogs makes you picture chaos wrapped in fur and enthusiasm — you're not entirely wrong.


But it's also one of the most joyfully muddy, tail-waggingly wholesome experiences you and your four-legged best friend can share.


Imagine this: you're sipping coffee at sunrise, your dog’s nose is twitching with excitement, and for once, you’re both completely off-leash from real life (figuratively — please obey leash laws).


Whether your pup is a seasoned trail hound or a city dog discovering the smell of moss for the first time, this guide is your go-to for making camping with dogs a total treat — for both species. 🐾



Camping with dogs: prep for a paw-some trip 


Planning ahead keeps your trip safe and fun for everyone.


  • Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date

  • Pack flea, tick, and heartworm medication

  • Double-check that your campsite allows dogs

  • Bring ID tags and ideally, a microchip just in case

  • Know where the nearest vet or emergency clinic is


Serious note: Some national and provincial parks have strict leash rules or dog-free zones. Don’t assume — always check.


A man in hiking shoes sitting on a green camp chair has his arm casually resting around the shoulders of the dog sitting at his side.

Camping with dogs: packing for your pup


Dogs need gear, too. A prepared pup is a happy camper.


  • Leash and harness (plus an extra, in case one breaks)

  • Collar with ID tag

  • Portable water bowl + water (don’t rely on natural sources)

  • Food and treats

  • Dog bed or sleeping mat

  • Poop bags (leave no trace!)

  • Towel for wet/muddy paws

  • Toys or chews for downtime


Pup hydration on hikes: Always bring water and offer it frequently. Dehydration can sneak up quickly, especially in summer.



A white dog sitting in a pop-up shade tent on a soft doggy bed with a bowl of water beside him. The screen is zipped to keep the bugs away.

Camping with dogs: make sure your site is pup-friendly


Where you camp matters. Some places welcome pups with open paws, others... not so much.


  • Look for designated dog-friendly sites

  • Avoid areas with heavy wildlife activity (bears, moose, porcupines!)

  • Choose a site with shade and water access, if possible

  • Read recent reviews to see if other dog owners had good experiences


Tick tips: After every outing, do a full-body check. Ticks love armpits, ears, and between toes - on people and on dogs.


To remove a tick from your dog, use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, then pull upward slowly and steadily without twisting. Avoid using remedies like matches, petroleum jelly, or nail polish (yes, apparently people actually do these), as they can be harmful.


Once the tick is out, place it in a sealed container with rubbing alcohol in case your vet needs to examine it (in case it's a carrier of Lyme disease), then clean the bite area with antiseptic. Wash your hands thoroughly and monitor your dog for any signs of illness in the following weeks, such as lethargy or loss of appetite.



Camping with dogs: pup safety tips 


Dogs + dirt = inevitable. But safety and basic hygiene go a long way.


  • Use a long lead if off-leash isn’t allowed

  • Store dog food securely (critters will find it)

  • Discard unused pet food in a sealed garbage container (not the woods – animals are attracted to pet food as well as human foods!) 

  • Bring a small first aid kit with pet-safe supplies

  • Keep their nails trimmed to prevent snags or breaks

  • Wipe down paws before bed to avoid irritation


Safety reminder: Know basic pet CPR and signs of heatstroke, hypothermia, or injury. Better safe than sorry.



A muddy dog rests his front paws on a mossy tree stump while looking ahead through the forest.

Camping with dogs: navigating hiking trail etiquette 


Trail manners matter. Not everyone loves dogs — and some dogs don’t love others.


  • Always obey leash laws

  • If your dog doesn’t have 100% recall, use a long line

  • Yield to other hikers and bikers

  • Don't let your dog chase wildlife (tempting, we know)

  • Clean up poop — even in the woods


Trail etiquette pro-tip: Call out in advance if you see other dogs or people coming, especially around blind corners. Remember, just because you are comfortable with your dog, doesn’t mean anyone else will be – or should be. Be a respectful trail-sharer. 



A woman wearing a backpack walking on a trail lined with trees, her dog beside her, looking up at her.

What to do with your pup when the weather changes


Weather is unpredictable – be ready to pivot! 


Rainy days:

  • Bring a lightweight doggy raincoat

  • Keep towels handy to dry off

  • Use a tarp or vestibule to create a dry hangout spot


Cold nights:

  • Dogs can get cold, too — especially short-haired breeds

  • Pack an extra blanket or let them share your sleeping bag

  • Check for shivering or limping


Hot days:

  • Avoid hiking during peak heat

  • Find shady routes and take breaks

  • Never leave a dog in a hot tent or car


Heatstroke signs: Heavy panting, lethargy, drooling, vomiting. If you see any of these, cool your dog immediately and seek help.



A leashed pup walks ahead of his owners along a sandy path through old pine trees.

Respectful pet travel: please leave no trace (of your dog 💩)


Camping with dogs is only fun for everyone if we keep it respectful. That starts with dog poop.


  • Always pack more poop bags than you think you’ll need. Double it, even.

  • Never start a hike unless you’ve got at least two bags per dog — some dogs save their best for the trail.

  • Dispose of waste properly in designated garbage bins. No one wants to see (or step in) a sad little bag abandoned on a tree stump.

  • Keep your dog close and under control to avoid disturbing wildlife or other campers.

  • Don’t let barking go unchecked — sound travels, especially at night.


Bottom line: Respect the land, your hosts, and other guests. Being a responsible pet owner ensures campsites stay dog-friendly for the long haul! 


Camping with dogs at Four Corners Algonquin 


At Four Corners Algonquin, we believe camping with dogs should be easy, fun, and welcoming — because your dog is part of the family.


  • Our canvas tents are spacious enough for two adults and up to two large dogs (or three small-to-medium dogs). Everyone gets room to stretch out and settle in.

  • Raised platform beds mean your pup won’t be sleeping on the cold ground — and heaters are available by request for extra coziness.

  • We’ve designed our site layout with space and serenity in mind, so you won’t feel crammed in beside other guests (or their dogs).

  • Our property includes walking trails, shaded clearings, and plenty of sniff-worthy spots just steps from your tent.

  • We provide water bowls and biodegradable poop bags on-site — but we always recommend packing extra, just in case.


We’re proud to be a place where dogs aren’t just tolerated — they’re truly welcome. Just let us know in advance who’s coming, and we’ll make sure tails are wagging on arrival. 🏕️



A puppy wearing a harness looks straight at the camera, trees in the distance.

Camping with dogs: pet-friendly tents at Four Corners Algonquin


All of our pet-friendly tents at Four Corners have more space and tree cover between tents for a more private camping experience, which is good news for you and your pet. You’ll hardly notice people walking by while you’re sitting at your campfire.


  • Belle of the Woods: A cozy 3-person safari tent that warmly welcomes pets, providing a snug retreat amidst nature.


  • Timber: Our aptly named tent, "Timber," is a dedicated pet-friendly site, continuing our tradition of naming tents after local logging terms. ​


  • Pete’s Place Group Camping Area: Ideal for larger gatherings, this pet-friendly section includes:


    • 2 x 6-person safari tents

    • 3 x 4-person safari tents

    • Accommodations for up to 24 people

    • Shared amenities like a common campfire pit, picnic tables, and a sheltered BBQ area


Each pet-friendly tent is thoughtfully equipped with:


  • Comfortable beds

  • Solar-powered lighting and charging stations

  • Outdoor seating with Muskoka chairs

  • Personal BBQs and fire pits

  • Complimentary firewood delivery​



A man squats at the edge of the water, holding his dog's leash in his hand, while the leashed pup enjoys splashing in the water.

Come camping with your dog at Four Corners!


We strive to create a welcoming environment where your pets can enjoy the great outdoors alongside you. 


There’s plenty to do with your pup in the area – from walking trails, to visiting the pet-friendly Rock Lake beach (leashed pets are welcome!).


If you need assistance selecting the perfect tent for your stay or have any questions about our pet policies, feel free to reach out!


Informing us in advance if you plan to bring your pets allows us to ensure the best possible experience for all our guests – human and otherwise. 




⚠️ Please always make sure your pets have up to date vaccinations, and do not leave your pet unattended, even in a tent.

 
 
 

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