Tag Archives: camping with dogs

Backpacking with Dogs: What to Pack

Thinking about backpacking with dogs? Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, consider these items and tips to help you pack for a successful trip with your pups!

9 Items to Pack for a Backpacking Trip with Your Dog

We all have slightly different setups for our backpacking essentials, including those we put together for our dogs. Here are nine of the essentials I consider including when I go backpacking with my dogs.

I may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below. This does not affect your price or savings. I appreciate your support!

1. Dog Backpack

A backpack is the first item many people think of for this type of adventure. Outfitting your dog with a backpack can give them a sense of having a job to do. They can carry their own essentials like food, water, and gear. Some of my favorite dog backpacks (that Cool Whip and Hercules actually used):

Keep the saddle bag sizes in mind when purchasing and packing your dog’s backpack. It is recommended to keep a dog’s backpack weight at less than 15% of their own weight. Really big saddle bags aren’t always that necessary. If your pup is new to backpacking, practice hiking in the pack without weight and slowly build them up to what they’ll carry on a trip.

A brown pit bull wearing an orange dog backpack standing on a rocky mountainside

2. Leash, Collar, Harness

Always bring a leash (6 feet or less, not a retractable leash), even if you’re on a hiking trail that doesn’t require your dog to be leashed. You may encounter another dog or other animal along your hike that makes your dog nervous and you’ll want to keep them close. Your dog may also encounter a wild animal it wants to chase, which is not safe for you, your dog, or the other animal(s).

A collar is great to have to carry your dog’s ID tags. It’s also a good backup attachment point for when you need to remove your dog’s backpack or if the backpack malfunctions. 

If your pup isn’t wearing a backpack, a regular dog harness with a handle along the back is a good idea for an outdoor adventure. The handle is useful for helping your dog (especially an older dog) up or down challenging steps and rocky climbs, crossing streams, and more. 

A white pit bull standing on a rocky ledge in front of a river with greenery, rocky cliffs, and sunrise colored clouds in the background

3. Water Bowls and Water

It is always important to carry sufficient water for your dogs, along with a bowl for them to drink from. Collapsible bowls are my favorite to carry on our outdoor adventures. They’re typically lightweight and collapse down to take up minimal room in your back.

Related Article: Best Dog Bowls for Hiking and Road Trips

A white dog drinking from a red foldable travel dog bowl

4. Dog Food, Food Bowls, Treats, and How to Pack Them When Backpacking with Dogs

There are a lot of factors to consider when packing dog food for a backpacking trip with dogs. Here are some of the most common questions:

How much dog food should you pack for a backpacking trip with dogs?

Pack enough dog food for the duration of your trip, plus an extra day in case of emergencies. Give your dog larger portions than they get at home since they’re likely expending more energy. 

Also, don’t forget to bring their favorite dog treats for rewards and encouragement.

What type of dog food should you pack when backpacking with your dog?

Dehydrated or freeze-dried dog food is a great choice if you want to pack light. However, with this type of dog food, you’ll need to ensure you’ll have enough water to rehydrate their food. If you’re backpacking in an area without access to water, you’ll have to carry that water in with you, which means more weight in your pack. 

Packing dry kibble weighs a little more, but it’s easy to pack and serve. Packing raw dog food can be the most challenging if you need to keep the food cold for multiple meals. Also, it may weigh the most.

Ultimately, this may just depend on what your dog already eats at home and what they’ll be willing to eat in the backcountry. Hercules used to get nervous in new environments and wouldn’t eat his regular dog kibble for the first meal or two. I would have to bring more enticing food to keep him nourished and energized.

Consider making your first backpacking trip with your dogs a short, easy trip so you can pack extra options to figure out what works (for food and other items). This also makes it easier to head home if the trip goes wildly awry.

How should you pack dog food for a backpacking trip?

Packing your dog’s food in a hard-sided container may seem like the most secure option, but it can be challenging to fit into a backpack. 

Some companies offer soft-sided kibble carriers, which is a lot easier to fit in a backpack (yours or your dog’s). The challenge with these can be volume: Will it hold enough food for your dog(s)? When I was backpacking with Cool Whip (70 pounds) and Hercules (65 pounds), there weren’t any soft-sided kibble carriers that could contain the amount of food they needed for more than a day or two.

I typically pack dry kibble for my dog backpacking trips. I put 1-2 servings of dog food in a sandwich-sized zip lock bag. Then I put each day’s worth of servings in a quart or gallon zip lock bag. 

Two pit bulls in warm jackets and hiking gear looking ahead at the sun peeking around a red sandstone cliff

Do you have to pack dog food in a bear-safe container?

If you need a bear canister for your food, you must include your dog’s food in there as well. Check the bear-safe regulations for the area where you’ll be hiking. Certain national forest, state park, or national park organizations might require bear-safe food storage (bear-safe canisters, bear boxes at campsites, hard-sided vehicles, or hanging food at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from branches and tree trunks). 

5. GPS Dog Tracker and Identification

Make sure your dogs are wearing ID tags with your contact information. Also consider investing in a dog GPS tracker. Most GPS dog trackers require a subscription, so it’s a good idea to have this set up well before your hiking trip to ensure it’s active and you know how to use the app to locate your dog.

My two favorite dog GPS trackers used by Cool Whip, Hercules, Lulu, and my parent’s dog Phyllis are from Tractive and Whistle (both purchased Spring 2022). The original Whistle device I use (Go Explore) is no longer available, but there is a 2.0 version (I do not know if it works as well or better). I also tried the Fi tracker, but it didn’t work as well in my area (limited cell reception).

Shop via Amazon: Tractive

A white pit bull wearing an orange bandana and a rainbow colored GPS tracker standing in a grassy meadow among trees

6. First Aid Kit for Dogs and Carry-Out Harness

A lot of the items in your regular first aid kit can be useful for your furry friend, but there are a few additional items you’ll want to consider adding. Check with your vet to review what is safe for your particular dog and when/how to use each item. 

  • Safety carry-out harness – Carry out your dog if they’re unable to walk
  • Rubber dog boots – Keep an injured paw clean and dry
  • Self-adhering bandage – Wrap up a wound without tape that sticks to fur
  • Antibiotic spray/ointment – Healing aid and protection
  • Digital thermometer – Easy to read
  • Muzzle – For your safety and theirs
  • Slip lead – A backup leash, doesn’t require a collar
  • Benadryl – For allergies
  • Irrigation syringe – Helpful in giving oral medication or flushing wounds
  • Milk of magnesia / activated charcoal – Absorb and counteract poisons
  • Hydrogen peroxide – Antiseptic
  • Non-medicated saline rinse – Flush wounds and eyes
  • Styptic powder – Stop bleeding from a torn nail
  • Magnifying glass – Easier to see splinters/wounds
  • Needle-nose pliers/multi-tool – Remove thorns, etc.
  • Tick removal tool
  • Disposable gloves
  • Flashlight
  • Pet first aid book

7. Poop Bags

Good trail etiquette for any dog owner is to pick up after their pet. Carry enough poop bags to clean up the dog poop your pup leaves along the hiking trail. The easiest way to get dogs banned from a dog friendly trail is to leave dog poop on the trail for other hikers to encounter.

8. Weather Protection When Backpacking with Dogs

Check the weather before you go on your hike and pack accordingly for your canine companion: rain jacket, fleece dog coat, insulated dog jacket, dog booties, etc. At minimum, I include our Tooth and Honey fleece jackets (lightweight but warm) for the dogs. Even on a warm day, we can all get a little chilled as the temperature starts to drop in the evening.

Two pit bulls in blue fleece sweaters looking out a field of large stone pillars while camping at City of Rocks State Park NM

9. Sleeping Gear for Dogs Backpacking

Where will your dog sleep at night? If you have a medium or small dog, they might sleep in your sleeping bag. For Cool Whip and Hercules, I would bring my Klymit inflatable sleeping pad and a fleece blanket for them to sleep on (the blanket kept the pups cozy and protected the pad from their nails). Another option might be to bring a lightweight dog bed or foam sleeping pad (cut in half if they don’t need the full length).

A white pit bull sleeping on a green sleeping pad in a tent

Additional Considerations When Backpacking with Dogs

I did most of my backpacking with two large dogs, so I needed a tent that could accommodate more than one person. At minimum, I opted for a two-person backpacking tent. Backpacking tents can be slightly smaller than the average tent, so a three-person backpacking tent was usually my preference. The extra space was worth a bit of extra weight. When car camping, a regular two-person tent fit us just fine.

When camping in soft or sandy areas, there is a chance your dog’s nails might puncture the tent floor (speaking from experience). Before I let the dogs in the tent, I spread out their blanket or put down the sleeping pads and sleeping bags right away.

What else do you include in your pack when backpacking with dogs?

Road Trip with Your Dog: Top Essentials to Pack

Preparing for your first (or any!) road trip with your dog can be stressful. As you consider what you might need, suddenly it feels like you’re packing your whole house and there’s no way it will all fit in your car. So, what are the dog gear must-haves for your dog friendly road trip?

Top 10 Essentials To Pack For A Road Trip With Your Dog

I may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below. This does not affect your price or savings. I appreciate your support!

Whether we’re driving for a few hours or doing a cross country road trip, here are the essentials I pack for a road trip with dogs. These items help keep everything running smoothly on the open road.

1. No-splash water bowl

The no-splash water bowl is my most essential item for any road trip. It is a game-changer. In the van, I leave this on the floor and there’s never been an issue with spilled water. In the car, I’ve perched it on the center console or in the back if I have the backseat folded down. I feel so much better knowing the hounds have access to water any time they’re thirsty.

Shop via Amazon: Kurgo No Spill Water bowl

2. Collapsible food bowl

Keep your regular food dishes off your packing list. No sense bringing a big clunky bowl when you can flatten out a collapsible bowl and toss it in the dog food canister to save space.

3. Food canister

I love the Vittles Vault pet food storage containers. They’re durable and secure. Skip the risk of ripped bags or a basic storage box the dogs can break into (trust me, I’ve dealt with both). I have a full sized one at home for the main food storage and a smaller one I use for road trips.

If you don’t fill the entire container, it’s also a great place to stash your bags of dog treats. Keeping all of the food items contained also makes your space less enticing for critters like mice.

Shop via Amazon: Gamma2 Vittles Vault – Dog Food Storage Container

4. Water jug

Dogs drink a lot (as should we humans). I fill up and bring a 5-gallon collapsible water jug on all of our longer trips in the car. You never have to worry that your dog won’t like the local water or that you won’t have access to water.

A white pit bull and a brown pit bull sitting in the back of an SUV with a cooler and camping gear behind them

5. Poop bags

Make sure you bring more than one poop bag because your pup will need a potty break and you’re a responsible pet parent. A lot of dog friendly places have waste bag dispensers nowadays, but they run out fast. I try to keep a couple rolls of waste bags in my glove compartment at all times.

6. Car seat cover

When the dogs ride in the back seat of the car, this Seat Hammock contains the dirt, hair, water, etc. I like the hammock version because it keeps them from falling in the footwells. It also has openings for seat belt clips for a safe car ride. This is in my car at all times but is easy to pack up as needed.

Shop via Amazon: Kurgo Seat Hammock

Bonus Tip: Consider getting a car safety harness and dog seat belt that clips into the regular seat belts. Extra safety is always a good idea.

7. Travel dog bed

Comfort is key when going on a road trip with your dog. Look for a dog bed with a durable bottom that won’t rip and repels water. I love Kurgo’s Loft Beds. They have a tough, waterproof bottom, so I don’t hesitate to set them down anywhere during our pit stops and camp-outs.

Shop via Amazon: Kurgo Waterproof Dog Bed

8. Long leash

Give your furry friend a little freedom even if they need to be leashed. These are great for letting the dogs have some space while I set up camp and can’t keep a close eye on them.

Bonus: Carabiners. These are gold in my eyes. I bring at least four on each trip. Connect your dog leash to anything to keep your hands free to unpack, make lunch at a rest stop, etc. They’re also great for setting up a dog zip line for a bit more freedom during a camping trip.

A white pit bull sitting in the back seat of an SUV with camping gear in the back.

9. Towel

At some point your dog is going to get wet or dirty, or both. I always keep an extra old towel handy to wipe muddy paws and dry off their fur as needed. Enough said.

10. Pet first aid kit

Even if you get just a basic “human” first aid kit, you should always have one in your car. Accidents can happen, whether you’re going to the dog park or a national park.

For camping and the dogs, I’ve added a few extra pieces: gloves for cleaning up trash someone else left at a campsite, Sharpie/pen for filling out campsite registration forms, extra leash for catching a stray dog (or if I forget the regular leash), Kwik Stop for ripped and bleeding claws, rubber booties to keep paws sanitary in case of an injury, etc.

A brown pit bull sitting near a silver SUV parked at a campsite with green grass and green trees

What Are The General Essentials I Pack For A Road Trip?

I keep the following items in my car no matter what. They’re stored in an old backpack I keep behind the front seats or tucked away in the cargo area.

Portable battery jump starter

After several times of hoping a kind stranger would help me jump start my car, one of which was at a deserted trailhead, I knew I needed a better plan. I upgraded from basic jumper cables to a do-it-myself jump start battery pack. Most of them also have ports for USB plugins so you can use it to charge your phone in a pinch.

Roadside emergency kit

I keep the dog + human first aid kit with my hiking backpack and camping gear, but I also have a first aid and roadside emergency kit I always keep in the car. Consider including a small gas can, flares, etc. I even keep tie-down straps. They’re helpful if I need to strap things to the roof or a trailer, such as when I’m returning home from a trip with more than I started with!

Water + granola bars

Emergency hydration and sustenance. Doesn’t have to be fancy. Toss couple water bottles and Clif bars in a gallon-sized Ziploc bag and you’re good to go.

Toilet paper

Encountering just one trailhead outhouse without toilet paper was enough motivation for me to always have a backup roll stashed in the car. You never know when you’re going to have to go and what will be available. Bonus: Include a small shovel so you can dig a hole and bury your poop if you’re in the wilderness.

Paper towels / disinfecting wipes

Spilled coffee, dog puke, etc. You want to be able to clean up those unexpected messes and minimize the germ spread.

Work gloves

Good for carrying around firewood, picking up trash, and keeping your hands clean and protected from anything. You can get a basic pair from any Home Depot, Lowes, etc. These nitrile dipped gloves are my favorites.

Multi-tool

I keep one in my hiking backpack and one in my car. It’s one of those items that is helpful to have just about everywhere. The pliers are especially helpful for pulling cactus spines out of dog paws when you’re visiting the desert.

Extra Tips For A Road Trip With Your Dog

Would all of these items be great to have for your next road trip with your pups? Sure.

Do you really need them all? No!

Start with what you have. Use what is convenient for you and your dog.

We went on a weekend trip recently and I stored the dog food in small Ziploc bags. There was no sense in bringing even the small dog food container for just 3-4 meals.

If your pup is new to road tripping, start small. Go on a day trip to see how they do in the car (nothing dulls the fun faster that a car-sick dog). Do a one-night camping trip somewhere local so it’s easy to get home is things go awry.

Also, remember that if you forget a critical item, there is usually a store nearby or on the way where you can stop to buy a new one. This isn’t the optimal solution, but it’s often better than cutting your trip short.

What other advice to you have for pet parents getting into road tripping? What do you bring on your road trips with your dog that I should add to this list?

Camping with Dogs at White Sands National Park

Camping with dogs at White Sands National Park is super rad. You’ll get sand everywhere. For all of eternity. It’s worth it. Just go.

Two dogs flank a human sitting on a white sand dune with a purple sunset and mountain in the background while camping with dogs at White Sands National Park

Visiting and Camping with Dogs at White Sands National Park

I may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below. This does not affect your price or savings. I appreciate your support!

January 25, 2024 Update – Per the White Sands National Park website: Backcountry camping is currently closed due to rehabilitation of camping sites. No date has been determined for its reopening.

Our trip started with a speeding ticket out in the middle of seemingly nowhere when I was legit trying to follow the speed limit. Somehow, I missed a sign. Herc was NOT pleased with the cop approaching my window. All sorts of ferocious woofs and growls coming from the peanut gallery: “Who the heck do you think you are trying to give things to my mom?! Did I say you could approach the vehicle?? Scram! Skedaddle!”

Beyond that minor incident and the fact the Cool Whip was appalled that she had to carry a pack, we had an incredible adventure. White Sands National Park is a beautiful dog friendly area to explore.

White Sands National Park is just outside Alamogordo and the Holloman Air Force Base. It is about six hours from Phoenix. I considered adding the Organ Mountains to our trip, but I opted for City of Rocks State Park. But whether you add more pit stops or not, this unique desert spot is worth the trip.

The dunes are made of white gypsum, a fair bit different from the classic brown sand of Great Sand Dunes National Park. Sunrise and sunset are excellent times to see the dunes as they take on the colors of the sky.

Activities at White Sands include the following and more:

  • Hiking. Dune Life Nature Trail, Playa Trail, Interdune Boardwalk, Alkali Flat Trail, Backcountry Camping Trail
  • Sand Sledding. Bring your plastic snow saucer or purchase one at the visitor center
  • Picnicking. There are shaded tables and grills with nearby restrooms in the parking areas
  • Backcountry Camping. There are no drive-up sites or RV camping options, but you can still spend a night in a tent
Two dogs flank a human sitting on a white sand dune with a sunset and mountain in the background while camping with dogs at White Sands National Park

​Check the Weather and the Missile Launches

Visiting White Sands in February treated us to minimal people and great weather. But, like planning a backpacking trip at Petrified Forest National Park, you’ll want to keep an eye on wind speed and temperature. There will almost always be wind. 10-15 mph is average, but use caution when rates hit 25 mph or greater.

The temperature at White Sands can also get a little extreme. Summer temps average 95 during the day and 55 at night. Winter cools down to 60 as a high and lows down to 23.

And yes, be sure to check for any planned missile range testing. White Sands Missile Range surrounds White Sands National Park. Missile range tests occur about twice a week. The monument and part of highway US 70 may be closed for an hour or two during this time.

A white dog in a blue sweater; the dog has one ear lifted in the wind

​Reservations, Permits, and Cost for Camping with Dogs at White Sands

Camping at White Sands requires a permit. You cannot make a reservation or acquire a permit for a White Sands backcountry campsite until the morning of your overnight adventure. Verify hours of operation before you plan to arrive. Stop at the entrance fee station to obtain your permit.

Rangers assign the ten available camping spots on a first-come-first-served basis. Camping fees are $3.00 per person aged 16+ and $1.50 for those 15 and younger. You’ll pay this fee AND the general entrance fee of $25.00 per vehicle (waived if you have the national park pass) at the entrance station.

You must leave your site by 1:00 pm the next day, and you must request a new permit in person if you wish to stay another night.

A paper showing a map of the backcountry trail and campsite at White Sands National Park and another paper that serves as a permit for backcountry camping with dogs at White Sands National Park

​Poop: Your Dog and YOU

Yes, you have to scoop ALL the poop. Always practice the Leave No Trace principles. Check with a park ranger at the Visitor Center for a Wag Bag if you didn’t bring a waste disposal container. Or, as one crafty ranger recommended to me, you can use the bags they provide at the pet waste stations around the park (one of which happens to be located right in front of the visitor center). These pet waste bags are pretty large and sturdy, by poop bag standards, not skimpy ones that tear if you pick up more than one poop nugget.

Shop via Amazon: These are the Earth Rated dog poop bags I use.

A pet waste station with a sign on the garbage can noting a graphic of a snake and the word "Rattlesnakes"

The Backcountry Camping Trail

You checked the weather, acquired a permit, loaded up on poop bags, took one last potty break at the toilets by the trailhead parking lot, and now you’re ready to head out on your adventure—woohoo!

The backcountry camping trail is a 2-mile lollipop loop that goes up, over, down, and around many dunes. With the ever-changing nature of the dunes, there is no regular trail on the ground you’ll follow. Instead, you follow orange trail markers staked into the dunes.

Once you reach your first marker on the trail, do not continue moving forward until you see the next marker. Continue this way for the remainder of the backcountry trail. Remember, you’re in a giant sandbox with no other landmarks to guide you, so it’s easy to become disoriented and lose track of your direction. Additionally, GPS tracks have a hard time displaying accurate readings out here. So, always stay aware of where the next trail or campsite maker is staked.

A White dog standing next to an orange stake sticking into a white sand dune; the stake has graphics depicting the rules and marking the route for the backcountry trail at White Sands National Park
A brown dog with an orange backpack standing next to a wooden trail marker stuck into the white sand dune

Campsites at White Sands

​You’ll eventually see the campsites noted on the trail markers as you’re cruising along the trail. Each campsite is in an open valley among the dunes. Once you find your campsite number on a trail marker, look for another marker at the base of the dunes. This is where you’ll set up camp, keeping your tent within five feet of that stake on the valley floor.

An orange trail marker stake and a wooden trail marker stuck into a white sand dune; between the trail markers you can see a green tent in valley down below; this is a campsite when camping with dogs at White Sands National Park
View of white sand dunes under a cloudy sky, tucked into a valley in the dunes is a barely visible green tent; a great site for camping with dogs at White Sands National Park

Camping With Dogs at White Sands National Park

ALWAYS keep your dog leashed while visiting White Sand National Park, even at the backcountry site. There are plenty of lizards and other animals around that you don’t want your dog to disturb. Additionally, you need to be able to find their poop to pack it out.

What to bring when camping with dogs at White Sands:

  • Water. There is NO water out in the dunes. Not even a stream. Make sure you bring plenty for yourself and your dog. Even if the temperature is cool, hiking across the dunes takes some effort.
  • Water bowl. Cool Whip and Hercules can drink out of my hydration pack spout, but a bowl is a lot easier. Here are some of the travel dog bowls we’ve used for hiking and backpacking.
  • Poop bags. Yes, I’m mentioning them again. Don’t be THAT person leaving poop around for others to stumble upon. Don’t bury it either. With all the wind blowing things around, it will resurface in no time.
  • Warm gear. The wind can cool you down a lot during the day, and it gets quite a bit cooler at night. Make sure your pup is comfortable. Bring a warm coat and a blanket or sleeping bag for your dog to snuggle into at night. Other than during our hike out to the campsite (mid-afternoon in February), Cool Whip and Hercules wore their fleece jackets the entire time.
  • Dog backpacks. These aren’t totally necessary, but they are helpful. Cool Whip and Hercules carried their own food and fleece sweaters.

Now get on out there and have some fun!

Looking down at two dogs, a white pit bull with a black backpack and a red stripped scarf, and brown pit bull with an orange backpack and teal striped scarf; the dogs are on leashed and standing on white sand

Camping in the NHAL State Forest in Wisconsin

If you’re looking for that quintessential Northwoods camping experience with big trees, lakes, and wildlife, camping in the NHAL State Forest is it. The Northern Highland–American Legion (NHAL) State Forest is a beautiful space in northern Wisconsin.

A brown pit bull in camping themed pajamas sitting among pines trees along the shore of Carol Lake while camping in the NHAL State Forest in Wisconsin

Camping in the NHAL State Forest

There are many options, so this truly depends on what you’re looking to do and what type of amenities you want. Most of these campgrounds have sites you can reserve.

Modern Campgrounds

Want to be able to shower and use a regular flush toilet? These are the campgrounds you’ll need to check out. There are no electrical hookups, but you can get a free permit to run a generator if that’s your thing.

  • Clear Lake
  • Big Musky
  • Firefly
  • Crystal Lake

Rustic Campgrounds

Just the essentials—hand-pumped water, pit toilets, and no electricity. However, these campgrounds usually offer wider site spacing than the modern campgrounds. This is what we opted for. Six campgrounds in this list (East Star through West Star) were non-reservable as of Fall 2020.

  • Big Lake
  • Buffalo Lake
  • Carrol Lake
  • Cunard Lake
  • Indian Mounds
  • Plum Lake
  • Sandy Beach Lake
  • South Trout
  • East Star Lake
  • North Trout Lake
  • Razorback Lake
  • Starrett Lake
  • Upper Gresham Lake
  • West Star Lake
Two pit bulls in fleece sweaters sitting between two large pine trees on the shore of Carrol Lake while camping in the NHAL State Forest in Wisconsin

Primitive Campgrounds

Just the basics—tent clearing, fire ring, picnic table, box latrine.

  • Allequash Lake
  • Bittersweet Wild Lakes Area
  • Clear Lake
  • Day Lake
  • Nebish Lake
A view from a wooden dock looking out at a small, tree-filled island on Carrol Lake

Backcountry Camping in the NHAL State Forest

For those looking for even more solitude and adventure, you can request a permit for backcountry camping.

Camping with Dogs at Carrol Lake

While having a shower sounded luxurious while camping, we wanted a small campground—this meant fewer amenities, fewer people, and more seclusion (for the dogs and us). Carrol Lake won partially due to availability when we made our reservation and because it has some tremendous walk-in sites.

Two pit bulls in fleece sweaters sitting between two large pine trees on the shore of Carol Lake while camping in the NHAL State Forest in Wisconsin

Don’t worry; you’re not going to be hauling gear across a football field. It’s more like walking the length of your house (if you have a small, 1300-sq-ft house like me). Easy peasy.

Related Post: What to Pack for a Road Trip with Your Dog

Our site, 102, had a lot of room and a lovely view of the lake. If all the sites there had been open, I might have chosen 103 because it had a little more grassy space and a more open view. However, it was slightly closer to the boat ramp (not that the boaters were noisy, or at least it didn’t sound like it from 102). Site 101 was a bit uphill from us, so more seclusion, but closer to the road. Even from our site, you could occasionally hear cars (noisy ones).

Two pit bull dogs in fleece sweaters on a dock with trees in the background at Carrol Lake lake in Wisconsin
A tan, orange, and grey 6-person tent surrounded by pine trees at a campsite at Carrol Lake Campground in Wisconsin

There were also regular campsites you could pull right up to and a few other walk-ins at the other end of camp. I don’t think those walk-ins had a great view of the lake. Plus, on our side (101-103), we were closer to the docks and dog-accessible waterfront. The actual beach area farther into camp does not allow dogs.

Carrol Lake is just a few minutes from town (Woodruff) and Clear Lake Campground, which has a ranger station and access to firewood.

Note: Pets must be on a leash. A State Parks and Forest sticker is required for camping (throughout the NHAL State Forest).

Brats cooking in a pan over a campfire, a great meal while camping in the NHAL State Forest in Wisconsin
A person sitting along the Carrol Lake lakeshore framed by pine trees and deciduous trees

​Hiking in NHAL State Forest

Our camp host gave us a great local newspaper guide filled with things to do, from local shops to local hikes. The Wisconsin DNR also has a great breakdown of hikes in NHAL State Forest. Try to check in with local guides whenever you can, whether it’s your camp host, a ranger, or some locals in town. They typically have a better grasp of current conditions and what’s accessible, plus they may have some “locals only” trail knowledge they can pass on.

A woman an a hiking trail surrounded by many green leafy trees in the NHAL State Forest in Wisconsin

While we spent part of our trip exploring the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness in Michigan, we did some local hiking as well. We headed up to Escanaba Lake for the first part of our day and then explored Minocqua in the second half. The Escanaba Hiking Trail offers several loops, from 2.36 to 8.48 miles. The trails are well-maintained and relatively wide. There is some logging regrowth you’ll hike through, but most of the time, it’s just beautiful forest views along with an occasional lake sighting.

Also, bring mosquito spray. There were zero bugs at our Carrol Lake campsite, but we encountered quite a few on the Escanaba hike.

Extra also: Don’t forget to bring some local(ish) brewskis!

A golden yellow and orange sunset view of Carrol Lake in Wisconsin
A handing holding a blue can of beer and in the background are two dogs sitting among pine trees with a lake and sunset behind them

Camping at City of Rocks State Park NM

Add camping at City of Rocks State Park NM to your to-do list. This is the type of place that blows my mind. A seemingly random, relatively small space that stands out in stark contrast to the surrounding landscape. Small but mighty.

Two pit bulls in blue fleece sweaters looking out a field of large stone pillars while camping at City of Rocks State Park NM

Visiting City of Rocks State Park

You’ll roll into the area on some quiet highways and paved roads, passing Faywood Hot Springs, a small resort with – yes, you guessed it – hot springs.

City of Rocks doesn’t even appear until you’re practically right at the front entrance of this massive cluster of giant boulders melting into each other. This monolithic structure is volcanic rock. Wind and water etched the formation over time, leaving smooth, rounded surfaces.

Two dogs in front of a red wooden sign stating "Welcome To City of Rocks State Park" that is held up by two stone pillars; this is what you'll see when you arrive to go camping at City of Rocks State Park NM

As always, I recommend making the visitor center your first stop. The rangers on duty can give you up-to-the-minute details along with the usual maps and souvenirs. I let them know I had two dogs and asked if I should be aware of anything besides keeping them on leash throughout the campground.

They told me they had spotted a mountain lion nearby the day prior, and that elk and bear were in the area, so I should keep a close eye on my pets. ​Of course, when they met Cool Whip and Herc later, they realized we didn’t have quite as much to worry about than if they’d been small, snack-sized dogs.

Two pit bulls in blue fleece sweaters looking out from a cave while camping at City of Rocks State Park NM

Camping at City of Rocks State Park NM

You can’t pick a bad spot in this park, but our friendly ranger did offer a couple of recommendations to help us stay out of the wind that day. Just one of the many reasons to make time to talk with the local rangers. It’s their job to know these parks, so they can provide information on things you didn’t even think to consider.

​Campsites are $10.00 per night. You can make reservations for some campsites, but others are first-come-first-served only. I wasn’t visiting during peak season, and I didn’t need electrical hook-ups, so I relied on the FCFS options.

Each site has a picnic table and campfire ring. There are garbage cans tucked throughout the campground and several pit toilets. The visitor center also has flush toilets and showers if you want to feel fancy.

A campsite with one deciduous tree, a campfire ring, and a red wooden sign state #5 and the word Aquila with a rock landscape in the background, a great campsite if you're camping at City of Rocks State Park NM

Cell Reception at City of Rocks

I didn’t have cell reception throughout most of City of Rocks State Park.

So, then what do you do when it starts pouring rain right after you pull into your campsite? ​Like your-tent-isn’t-even-set-up-just-pulled-in.

You turn your vehicle into your tent. Redistribute a few gear bags, blow up some sleeping pads, and spread out sleeping bags. Kick back and relax.

I listened to my downloaded podcasts. And, ironically, this is when I came across How to Unplug with Danny Kim, episode 100 from Wild Ideas Worth Living. It covered exactly what had been running through my brain: Do we need to unplug, and, if so, how can we?

Honestly, to answer that, I’d just be repeating what I heard on that podcast, so give it a listen for yourself. Trust me; it’s worth listening to.

Because once the sun did come back out and I inadvertently found cell service while hiking, I resisted the urge to jump on social media. I heard a few notification dings, then turned my phone on silent. And challenged myself only to use my phone for pictures until I left City of Rocks the next day. It was refreshing!

Two dogs, a brown pit bull in a blue sweater on the left and a white pit bull in a unicorn sweater on the right, facing the camera while standing up on a rock ledge
A brown pit bull dog peering out through a crack between two large rocks

Is City of Rocks State Park Dog Friendly?

Yes, City of Rocks State Park is very dog friendly! Once the rain cleared, we scurried all over the park. The whole place is dog-friendly aside from inside the buildings. There are trails to hike, but we mostly stuck to scrambling around on the boulders because there seemed to be endless nooks and crannies to explore.

Whether this is a destination or a pitstop on a more extensive adventure, I highly recommend it. After backcountry camping at White Sands National Park, we spent the night here. And I’ll definitely stop again if we’re cruising through southern New Mexico.

A brown pit bull dog in a sweater looking out over a rocky landscape with sunrays shining out just above his shoulder

Adventures in Alabama Hills

Who pooped in the van?

Never ever is that a question you want to have to ask.

A woman and two pit bulls standing on large granite boulders
View of an arch in granite boulders with snow capped Sierra Nevada mountains in the background

Do you remember that Dane Cook skit when someone sh*ts on the coats? It’s from a little while back. Okay, a ways back. Whatever. Just Google it. “I think someone may have sh*t on or around the coat area.” Remembered forever.

We were in a rental adventure van, bouncing along on a dusty washboard road just east of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. We had been scurrying about a field of granite boulders in search of arches. Which we found. But they are not the highlight of this story. The poop isn’t the highlight of the story either. Well, maybe it is. It was, at the very least, a somewhat pivotal moment.

A pit bull in a blue coat standing on granite boulders looking ahead to sunrise
A brown pit bull in a blue jacket and green harness staring ahead at snow capped mountains lit up by sunrise

Herc hadn’t pooped in two and a half days. He has not-pooped on an adventure before, but usually just for a day. There I was in the middle of day three, exploring out beyond the popular areas, circling and circling and mumbling about poop. “C’mon Hercy, time to do some pooping. How about this bush? It looks perfect for backing your little booty into! No? What about this one? Yes, I know we passed it three times already and you peed on it twice, but I just need you to poop. I’ve seen you eat all of your kibbs, so I know you have stuff to deposit!”

After an eternity — rough estimate — I aimed us for the van and wondered if there were any vets in Lone Pine. The leash caught on something. Ugh, what now?! I spun around to see Herc leaving a giant number two. Finally! I’ve never been so excited to see poop! “Herc you are such a good fella! I am so proud of you! Good boy! Good boy!!” We pranced back to the van and started our bumpy journey to base camp.

A woman and two pit bulls walking along a brown granite ridge

Sniff sniff.

No.

Someone must have farted.

Sniff sniff.

More farts?

Sniff.

Damn.

Really hounds? It’s only Friday and we’re in this van until Wednesday.

Cool Whip had the most smug look on her face. For once, she was the innocent one. Herc just looked out the window.

Back at basecamp I shook out the bedding, sprayed disinfectant everywhere, and aired out the van. Thankfully an easy cleanup; I knew it could have been worse. Much, much worse. I cracked open a beer and settled into my camp chair. We were “home” and that made everything okay.

I was surprised how quickly I felt at home in our rental rig and location. One night for each was all it took to feel that cozy sense of belonging. Skipping down the sandy road to see our vibrant van seemingly pop out of nowhere amongst the rocks brought on an internal hug.

A woman and two pit bulls standing in a field of granite boulders

The locations I’d originally pinned on a map as potential basecamps were all occupied when we arrived. I, of course, panicked a bit. Had I not prepared properly? Had I grossly misjudged our options? What if I couldn’t find any parking spots? Unnecessary worrying. The more I explored, the better options I found. More seclusion. Better views. Nicer roads. Patience is key, Kris. This is what I must remember.

Our camp was tucked well into the boulders with a circular entryway so I’d never have to back in awkwardly. By parking in just the right spot, we could settle around the campfire with a bit of privacy. Which really meant the dogs would not get worked up by any vehicles that wandered through. Peaceful, calm, and undisturbed.

And surrounded by these magical, wonderful boulders bubbling out of the earth with rounded corners and gently creased folds. Surfaces textured just enough to grip your feet without roughing them up. An epic geological playground. Each day we scrambled over and meandered around these boulders, weaving in and out of the granite hallways. Never the same route twice; though we did find a few favorite destinations for the rising and setting of the sun. A welcoming coziness in this jumble of rocks.

Learn more about Alabama Hills.

Exploring California’s Alabama Hills with Your Dog

Boot shaped arch in granite rocks
a brightly colored van parked in a dirt clearing surrounded by large granite boulders