Pet friendly camping areas near Newcastle, Utah offer camping opportunities at elevations ranging from 3,700 to 6,800 feet, creating temperature variations that benefit both people and pets. The region's volcanic history has created unique rock formations and diverse terrain that allows for year-round camping access. Many campgrounds provide direct access to natural water sources where pets can cool off during warmer months.
What to do
Reservoir recreation for dogs and owners: Enterprise Reservoir near Honeycomb Rocks Campground provides water activities where pets can join. "This campground is a stones throw from the two gorgeous Enterprise Reservoirs. If you have a atv/utv you can come here and ride for days! If not and you're not afraid to do some hiking, you'll find yourself in a stunning landscape!" says Jace L.
Creekside exploration: Let your pet explore stream environments at lower elevations. At Pine Valley Equestrian Campground, Tony W. notes, "Has a gorgeous, peaceful stream running a very short walk from the sites. I spent most of my time walking through shaded woods along the stream and collecting water for boiling along with firewood."
Dog-friendly hiking options: Multiple trail systems accommodate leashed pets. Gabriel A. mentions, "I camped at this site for a week during a trip to Zion National Park. It's a great place to stay with scenic areas, potable water, and vault toilets. Highly recommend for people planning to visit Zion during a highly trafficked time of the year."
What campers like
Temperature variations for pet comfort: The elevation changes provide natural climate control. According to Jessica W. at Baker Dam Recreation Area, "Ended up here as a last minute change in camping locations, and it didn't disappoint. Spots are a little rough, with some concrete tables (a couple with missing benches) and other spots with old weathered wooden tables."
Space between campsites: Many campers appreciate the privacy for pets that need their space. At Pine Valley Equestrian Campground, Chad M. writes, "Very quiet campground and felt like we were alone. Can't see other sites. Horse stables away from tents and didn't smell at all. Restrooms really clean."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area offers chances to view wildlife with pets kept secured. "Cows and deer walk through the sites, it was really cool. They have vault toilets, no sinks but a water filling station. Also sell firewood at the site for $6 a bundle," notes Marisa P. about Crackfoot Campground.
What you should know
Limited water availability: Not all campgrounds provide potable water, requiring planning ahead. At Baker Dam Recreation Area, Benjamin W. notes, "We have stayed here multiple times for just a weekend getaway. It's a pretty spot and usually has openings. No water on site so make sure you bring your own."
Reservation systems vary: Some sites require advance planning while others remain first-come, first-served. Carly E. from South Campground explains, "South campground used to be first come, first serve but is now reservable, with sites opening on a rolling basis two weeks in advance. This is great for a semi-spontaneous trip at a busy time of year."
Weather fluctuations affect pet comfort: Temperature swings can be significant throughout the day and season. According to Julie G., "Elevation 6800 ft Was 90s during day (a lot cooler in shade) 60s at night, so quite a drop in temp. No wifi. No cell reception. Clean bathrooms."
Tips for camping with families
Water play options with pets: Multiple water features offer natural cooling during hot months. Paige L. from Honeycomb Rocks Campground writes, "It is private and every spot is stunning! Right next to a large pond where we went swimming the next day. It's a great location for a getaway spot on the weekend!"
Pet-accessible sites with shade: Look for sites with natural shade coverage. At Crackfoot Campground, Jake C. notes, "This tent only portion of Pine Valley was great. A small stream close by. Fully shaded and cool compared to St George."
Bathroom facilities for families with pets: Campgrounds with maintained facilities make family camping easier. "Bathrooms are intermittent and nicely maintained. The lake can get crowded but we found it's easy enough to find a private spot," explains Kristin S. from Westside Campground.
Tips from RVers
RV sites with pet areas: Look for campgrounds that offer designated pet exercise areas. Kristin S. notes, "There are a couple options for camping in Sand Hollow SP. We stayed at the Westside grounds with FHU. We really enjoyed our stay here as there's plenty of your own space with neighbors behind and in front rather than side-to-side."
Hookup availability for climate control: During summer months, hookups allow climate control for pets left in RVs. "This is a great campground. Backs up against the Virgin River. Just a few minutes from Zion NP and St George. Pet friendly and kid friendly. Lots of shade trees. Clean pool and hot tub. Market on site with very reasonable prices," writes Ben B.
RV size restrictions: Some pet-friendly sites have size limitations. Mary S. explains, "Our sites had a 19 foot maximum vehicle length listed on recreation.gov. We could tell from the online photos that our teardrop would fit just fine even without turning it sideways."
