Are you planning your next camping trip with your furry friend but are having trouble finding a campsite that accepts dogs? Don't worry, we've got you covered. As a pet owner, finding a campsite that welcomes your four-legged companion can be a difficult task, but it doesn't have to be. With a little research and preparation, you can plan an unforgettable adventure with your loyal companion. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of finding dog-friendly campsites, from choosing the right location to researching pet policies and regulations. We'll also share some tips and tricks to make your camping trip safe and enjoyable for both you and your furry friend. So grab your tent, pack your bag and get ready for an unforgettable adventure with your companion.
Advantages of camping with your dog
Camping with your dog has many advantages. Firstly, it's a great way to spend time with your pet and strengthen your emotional bond as you share outdoor adventures together.
It is also an opportunity for your dog to experience new environments, smells, sounds and stimuli. This can help him develop new skills, adaptability and confidence.
In addition, the outdoors and nature are excellent for health and well-being, and can help reduce stress and anxiety in both you and your dog.
Then, by taking your dog camping with you, you won't have to worry about paying for a kennel or finding someone to take care of him in your absence. Your dog is part of your family and camping together means you won't have to be away from him, for a carefree holiday.
In this way, you will also experience family moments together in a more relaxed atmosphere than in your everyday life. This will allow you to create unique memories where no one is missing.
Important considerations when travelling with your dog
Before you leave home, it's important to make sure your dog is healthy and fit for travel. Ideally, schedule a visit to the vet to make sure your pet is up to date with its vaccinations, has a valid health certificate, and is protected against possible parasites, as you will be out in the wild. Also, don't forget to take their medication if they have any specific treatment.
It is also very important that you carry an up-to-date ID with your contact information. We advise you to write down your full name, the number of the phone you will carry with you with the country code if you are travelling abroad, and the name of the campsite where you will be staying. This will make it easier to find you in case you cannot be reached on your mobile phone for any reason.
In addition, you need to think about their safety during transport. If you are travelling by car or motorhome, you need a suitable restraint system for your dog. This ensures the safety of all passengers, human and dog, in the event of braking or accidents. If you are travelling by train or plane with your dog, check the rules of the transport company in advance so that you are well-prepared and do not encounter any problems at the time of departure.
Finally, you must ensure that your dog is trained and behaves appropriately. While it is true that he is an animal, and we cannot ask him not to move and not to make noise, he should be able to obey basic commands, such as sit, stay and come when called. It is also much better if he is already used to being in an outdoor environment and interacting with other people and animals.
Understanding camping rules and regulations
Before booking a campsite, it is important to research its pet rules and regulations. For example, some campsites may have restrictions on the breed, size and number of dogs allowed, while others may require dogs to be leashed at all times. It is also important to be aware of restricted areas, such as bathing areas and trails, where dogs may not be allowed.
It is important to note that campsites may have these rules and restrictions for a number of reasons. One reason is the safety and comfort of all campers, adults and children, as well as the dogs themselves. Dogs of breeds considered to be dangerous can be unpredictable and limiting the access of such breeds helps to prevent potential incidents, especially in family environments with young children, as campsites often are.
In addition, some rules also ensure that owners are responsible for picking up after their pet in order to maintain a clean and pleasant environment for all campers.
If you are unsure of a campsite's rules, it is best to contact them directly and ask questions to make sure you are properly prepared. On our campsites, you can use the chat in the bottom right corner of your screen, or call them as they have extended phone hours.
Types of pet-friendly campsites
There are several types of campsites that are dog-friendly. Some campings are designed specifically for pets and therefore may offer special amenities, such as dog-friendly areas, dog parks and dog-friendly activities. Other campsites are not designed specifically for pets, but allow pets in specific areas of the campsite, as well as in certain accommodations, or on designated trails, and limit access to other common areas, such as swimming pools or restaurant rooms.
It is important to note that some campsites only allow dogs in low season or have restrictions on the number of dogs allowed per pitch or accommodation. Check the policies of each campsite to make sure they meet your needs.
Factors to consider when choosing a campsite to go with your dog
When choosing a campsite for you and your dog, it is important to consider a few important factors. Firstly, as we've explained above, make sure you check the campsite's policies on pets.
Next, you should consider the size of your dog and whether the campsite has enough space and amenities for you all to be comfortable.
Also, research the location and environment of the campsite and whether it suits your needs and preferences. For example, if your dog enjoys water, look for a campsite near lakes, rivers or pet-friendly beaches. If you prefer mountain hiking, make sure there are trails nearby where you can walk with your dog.
Another important factor to consider is the time of year you are planning your trip. Some campsites may be closed during the winter or have additional restrictions depending on the date. You should also consider the weather and campsite conditions, such as the availability of water and shade. If you are choosing a bungalow, you should check whether dogs are also allowed in the accommodation, and whether it has air conditioning or a fan included if you are going in summer.
Finally, once you have found the right campsites to go with your dog, evaluate the other facilities of the campsite, such as the swimming pools, the restaurants, if it has a supermarket or entertainment, so that the whole family, including the children, can enjoy every day of the stay.
Suggestions of campsites that allow dogs in Catalonia
Catalonia is a perfect place to camp with your dog. There are many campsites that allow dogs and offer special services for pets. Here are some suggestions of campsites that allow dogs in privileged environments to go with your pet:
Camping Caballo de Mar
Located on the seafront promenade of Pineda de Mar, this campsite has direct access to the beach, which has an area reserved for pets. It is a small family campsite, where dogs are allowed on all plots, as well as in some types of accommodation:
- On the same beach are the Bora Beach Pets bungalows for up to 5 people and a pet.
- On the other side of the road, and therefore closer to the pools, you will find the Bora Pets bungalows, the Mobile Homes Aura Pets for up to 4 people with a pet, and the Helia Plus Pets, perfect if you are 6 people and need 3 bedrooms and air conditioning.
At this campsite, dogs of dangerous breeds are not allowed, and there is a maximum of one pet per stay. They must be kept on a leash at all times and it is forbidden to leave them alone, but muzzles are not compulsory. You can walk your dog all over the campsite, even on the restaurant terrace, but it is not allowed in the supermarket, nor in the aquatic areas.
Camping Cala Gogo Internacional
This campsite is perfect if you want to discover the Costa Brava with your dog. It is located in Calonge, and you can camp with your dog all season on the pitches that are located in the Internacional are, or choose an accommodation where dogs are allowed: the Mobil Home Marina Pets is for up to 4 people and one pet.
This campsite is very large, close to some very pretty villages for walking. One of them, Palamós, 10 minutes away by car, has a beach reserved for pets, even in summer.
In the Camping Sènia Internacional, dangerous breeds are not allowed, they must always be kept on a leash, it is forbidden to leave them alone, and muzzles are not compulsory. Dogs are allowed in the whole campsite, excluding the closed areas, the aquatic areas and the Cala Gogo campsite in high season.
Camping Rupit
Located in Rupit i Pruit, a beautiful medieval village in the middle of nature, in the mountains of Osona, this campsite admits pets on plots and in a Mobil Home model: the Croma Gold Pets, for families of up to 4 people with a pet.
In this case, Camping Rupit is perfect if you are looking for a retreat in nature, far from the coast. It is also located close to hiking trails that run through incredible landscapes, ideal for walking with your dog through forests and mountains.
Essential equipment for camping with your dog
Camping with your dog can be a wonderful experience, but it can also be stressful if you are not properly prepared. Here is the essential equipment for camping with your dog:
- Your documents in order to be able to present them at the reception of the campsite if you are asked for them;
- A dog tent to keep your dog safe and comfortable, so he can rest comfortably;
- A leash and harness for walking with him in areas where he has to be tethered;
- Bowls for his food and water, and some stock of his food if he has a specific diet or a favourite brand;
- Enough bags to pick up your dog's waste to keep the area clean;
- Your favourite bed or blanket to rest comfortably, just like at home;
- Some of his favourite toys to keep him entertained.
Activities your dog can do while camping
Camping with your dog offers many opportunities for physical and mental activity. Some activities your dog can do while camping include:
- Walk or run on trails. Depending on the location of the campsite you choose, find out about the walking routes around it. You may be able to find riverside or seaside walks, adapted cycle paths, or nature trails.
- Swim in lakes, rivers or beaches designated for dogs. Contact the campsite for recommendations of dog-friendly areas in your area so that you can go on excursions together.
- Play with other dogs in dog park areas. Research the surrounding towns and find parks or a dog park, as this will allow you to identify places where you are likely to meet other dogs.
- Participate in special activities for dogs in campsites that offer them. Some pet-friendly campsites even organise some activities designed so that your pet can also take part.
Conclusion and final tips for a successful camping trip with your dog
Camping with your dog can be a wonderful experience if you are properly prepared. Be sure to research the campsite's policies and rules before you book, and bring everything you need to keep your dog safe and comfortable during your trip. With a little preparation and planning, your next camping trip with your dog can be an unforgettable experience. So if you need help finding the ideal campsite to go to with your dog, contact us and we'll help you.
