Camping With Dogs
Tips for bringing your four-legged family members along on your Timberleaf adventures.
At Timberleaf, dogs are family. Whether they’re snoozing on the shop floor or exploring the backcountry, our furry companions are a huge part of the trailer camping experience. From puppies seeing snow for the first time to old trail dogs who know every trick in the book, camping with your dog makes every adventure more memorable — and a little more fun.
Five Tips for Camping with Dogs
Food, Water, and Medications
Always bring more food and fresh water than you think you’ll need. Outdoor adventures can burn more calories than a typical day at home, and fresh water isn’t always easy to find at camp. Pack any medications your dog needs, and store food securely — in a bear box, in the trailer’s tongue box, or in a locked vehicle overnight. Curious wildlife, from raccoons to bears, will be drawn to the smell.
Managing Mess
Dogs and dirt go hand-in-paw. Be ready with a few old towels, a jug of rinse water, and a biodegradable soap for cleaning muddy paws or dusty coats. A simple doormat outside your trailer can cut down on tracked-in dirt. If your dog sleeps inside your trailer, consider using a zippered mattress protector and a spare sheet for extra protection. And of course, be a good steward — always pick up after your dog, even in the backcountry.
Sleeping Arrangements
Some dogs are happy to snuggle in the bed with you. Others do better with a cozy dog bed tucked in a corner, on a lower shelf, or even in the tow vehicle if temperatures allow. Think about your dog’s size, age, and sleeping habits. If your dog is crate-trained, bringing a familiar crate can make them feel at home. For nervous campers, a favorite blanket from home can make all the difference.
Safety First
Before you hit the road, make sure your dog’s vaccines, flea and tick preventatives, and ID tags are up to date. If your dog is off-leash capable, a bear bell clipped to their collar helps wildlife and fellow campers know they’re coming. Glow-in-the-dark collars or clip-on lights make it easier to keep track of them after sunset. Always know your dog’s limits — some dogs may love long hikes, while others prefer a cozy nap by the fire.
Temperature Awareness
Dogs are more sensitive to heat and cold than we are. On hot days, bring extra water, provide shade, and plan activities for early morning or evening. A small battery-powered fan in the trailer can help move air on warm nights. On cold-weather trips, pack a jacket or blanket for your dog — especially short-haired breeds or smaller pups who can lose heat quickly. If it’s too hot or too cold for you, it’s definitely too extreme for them.
Things to Watch Out For — and Moments to Treasure
Be cautious of:
- Thorns, cactus, or sharp rocks on desert trails.
- Water hazards — fast rivers, icy lakes, or algae blooms.
- Wildlife encounters — keep your dog leashed if bears, moose, or snakes are common.
- Campfire safety — curious pups and open flames don’t mix.
- Ticks and burrs hidden in fur after a hike.
And enjoy:
- That full-body wag when they realize it’s a hiking day.
- The way they curl up by your campfire, totally at peace.
- Waking up to a wet nose nudge and a happy tail thump in your trailer.
- Exploring new trails together, with no distractions — just you and your best friend.
- Sharing a quiet sunrise, just you, your dog, and the mountains waking up.
🐾 Recommended Gear for Camping With Dogs
- 🥣 Collapsible water and food bowls – Easy to pack, perfect for trail days.
- 🚰 Portable water container – A dedicated water jug just for your dog.
- 💡 Clip-on LED lights or glow collars – Spot your pup easily after dark.
- 🧥 Lightweight dog jacket – Great for chilly mornings or sudden weather changes.
- 🧵 Long lead or tether – Room to roam, with safety at camp.
- 🐾 Paw balm or booties – Protects paws on hot sand, sharp rocks, or snowy trails.
- 🩹 First aid kit with dog supplies – For cuts, sprains, or ticks on the trail.
- 🧸 Favorite toy or chew – A comfort from home for peaceful downtime.
With a little preparation, you and your trail buddy can focus on the fun! 🏕️🐶
Adventure Awaits
There’s nothing better than sharing the trail, the stars, and the campfire with your best friend. The photos in this guide are from our August 2021 Timberleaf Jamboree near Leadville, Colorado — and we’d love to see your own adventures! Tag us on Instagram or Facebook @timberleaftrailers.
And yes — for those wondering — we’ve thought about cat camping too. If you’ve made it work, we definitely want to hear your story!
Words by Sarah Labowitz; photography by Peter Molick