Camping with Dogs – Your July Adventure Checklist

Camping in July is one of the best ways to embrace the great outdoors—and what better way to enjoy it than with your furry best friend by your side? Whether you're planning a weekend in the woods, a lakeside getaway, or a road trip to a national park, bringing your dog along for the adventure can make the experience even more memorable.

Here’s your ultimate July camping checklist to make sure you and your pup are prepared, safe, and set for fun!

✅ Dog-Friendly Camping Essentials

Before you hit the road, make sure you’ve packed the right gear for your dog:

• Collar with ID tags (including your cell number)
• Up-to-date microchip info (just in case)
• Leash and harness (plus a long lead for roaming around camp)
• Plenty of poop bags
• Portable, collapsible bowls for food and water
• Enough food + treats for the whole trip (plus extra)
• Dog-safe bug spray or flea/tick protection
• Dog bed or sleeping pad
• Blanket or towel (for drying off or curling up at night)
• Toys or chew bones for relaxing around camp
• First aid kit (include items like tweezers, bandages, paw balm)

🏕️ At the Campsite

Once you arrive, set up a dog-safe space:

• Shade is key: July sun is strong—make sure your dog has access to shade at all times.
• Secure the site: Use a tie-out or a portable playpen so your pup doesn’t wander.
• Stay hydrated: Bring more water than you think you'll need. Dehydration sneaks up quickly in warm weather.
• Watch the paws: Hot ground can burn your dog’s pads. Lay down a blanket or tarp, or check the ground with your hand first.

🥾 Trail Safety Tips

Planning to hike with your dog? Keep these in mind:

• Stick to dog-friendly trails: Many national and state parks have specific rules.
• Check for wildlife warnings: July is active season for snakes, bears, and insects.
• Use a harness, not just a collar: Safer for long walks and better control.
• Take breaks often and monitor for overheating (excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy).

🐾 Campfire Time

Dogs usually love to chill by the fire, but take precautions:

• Keep them away from the flames and hot food.
• No cooked bones—they can splinter and cause choking or internal damage.
• Clean up after meals so your dog doesn’t sneak human food or trash.

🌌 Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Moment

Camping with your dog is a chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature—and your pup. Play fetch under the stars, go for an early morning trail walk, or simply enjoy a lazy afternoon by the lake.

Make sure to take lots of pictures—you’ll want to remember these moments!

Pro Tip: Not sure where to go? Check out dog-friendly camping apps like Hipcamp, BringFido, or The Dyrt to find the perfect pet-welcoming campsite.