Dogs are the perfect companions, for life and for camping. They like the same things about camping that we do: fresh air, quiet relaxation, trails to hike, ponds to swim in, meeting new people, meeting new dogs, sleeping on the ground. That’s why The Dyrt’s 2026 Camping Report Presented by Toyota Trucks found that nearly half (49.7%) of campers reported camping with dogs in 2025, by far the most for any type of pet.
To celebrate the pooches in our lives, The Dyrt, the app to get the best campsites, built by the largest RVing and camping community in the U.S., has announced the Top 9 for K-9s: 2026 Best Places to Camp with Dogs presented by JustFoodForDogs. This list recognizes the top campgrounds in the country that cater to dogs just as much as they do to campers.
Returning to the No. 1 spot this year is 4 Paws Kingdom Campground & Dog Retreat in Rutherfordton, North Carolina, which also took top honors in 2024. It stakes its claim as the only dog-dedicated campground in the U.S., so it’s only natural that it once again tops our list of the Best Places to Camp with Dogs.
In addition to Top 9 for K-9s, The Dyrt has already recognized some of the best places to camp in niche categories: National Park Neighbors, With Kids, For Free, Near Water and Near Cities. The Dyrt also handed out the annual Glampy Awards and Best Places to RV, as well as the Top 10 Best Places to Camp in each region of the country and the Best Places to Camp: Top 10 in the U.S.
For these awards, winners were chosen based on reviews and ratings from The Dyrt’s community of campers in addition to amenities, accommodations and overall reputation. Without further ado, here is The Dyrt’s Top 9 for K-9s: 2026 Best Places to Camp presented by JustFoodForDogs:
1. 4 Paws Kingdom Campground & Dog Retreat — North Carolina
Location: Rutherfordton, NC
What makes it a top dog: 4 Paws Kingdom Campground & Dog Retreat, in the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, makes no bones about putting pups first. If dogs could drive, humans might not even be allowed here.
The campground offers an impressive array of amenities specifically designed for dogs to play and explore. Guests, both two legs and four, have access to a swimming pond, multiple off-leash play parks, an agility park and hiking trails. There’s also a dedicated doggie bathhouse with a grooming station. Some campsites even come with “fenced-in yards” so dogs can roam close to home and stay safe. 4 Paws gets five stars.
What The Dyrt’s community of dog-lovers has to say: “We stayed for Memorial Day weekend in one of the RVs they had for rent. Had such a great time I went and bought a camper and have plans to go back already! My husky had a blast, as did the humans.” — Lauren S.
Price: $39+; Number of sites: 51; Read more
2. Fort De Soto Campground — Florida
Location: Tierra Verde, FL
What makes it a top dog: Loop 2 at Fort De Soto Campground is designated exclusively for campers traveling with dogs, ensuring a pet-focused community atmosphere. There’s even a dog beach complete with rinse stations. Fort De Soto Park itself also provides endless options for campers.
Beyond the dog-specific amenities, the campground’s location provides exceptional opportunities for outdoor adventures with your pup. There are paved trails throughout the grounds and direct water access from many campsites. It does get pretty hot in the summer, but there are plenty of trees to provide shade to keep dogs cool.
What The Dyrt’s community of dog-lovers has to say: “Fort De Soto is a fantastic park for the nature adventurer. With a huge variety of activities available it’s perfect for the whole family. Dog friendly, it has a huge dog beach and separate dog run.” — Emily C.
Price: $38-$48; Number of sites: 238; Read more
3. Lake George RV Park — New York
Location: Lake George, NY
What makes it a top dog: Lake George RV Park is an exceptional choice for both RVers and dog owners. Charlie’s Bark Park is a two-acre off-leash recreation area designed specifically for canine companion campers. The park owners clearly have pups in mind with designated large and small dog areas, an indoor dog wash station, pet treat vending area, dog spray fountain, agility events and large synthetic turf play area.
The entire property is a sprawling 120 acres that provides the perfect environment for campers and their dogs to roam and explore. The wooded Adirondack setting is replete with shaded walking trails. The peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere of the park creates a welcoming environment where dogs can relax and enjoy their vacation too.
What The Dyrt’s community of dog-lovers has to say: “The campground is so clean and nice! Perfect for the dogs with best dog park I ever saw. Pools and hot tubs extremely clean and the grounds looked more like a hotel resort than campground.” — Michael C.
Price: $109-$209; Number of sites: 400; Read more
4. Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground — Idaho
Location: North Fork, ID
What makes it a top dog: Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground offers pet-friendly camping sites specifically designed to accommodate canine companions. One of the highlights for pups is a fabulous nature walking path situated on an island accessible by a foot bridge where dogs can run and play unleashed, providing them with freedom and exercise in a designated area away from the main campground.
The scenic setting of Wagonhammer enhances the experience for dogs and owners alike. Located on the banks of the scenic Salmon River, surrounded by the Central Idaho Rocky Mountains, the campground provides acres of wilderness land and nearby national parks for outdoor exploration. The beautiful natural surroundings and rugged scenery create an ideal environment for dogs to enjoy fresh air and outdoor adventures, whether hiking nearby trails or simply exploring the peaceful riverside setting.
What The Dyrt’s community of dog-lovers has to say: “Great location & super clean! Our campsite was right next to the river. Dog friendly and there is a dog island that your fur kid can run around off leash!” — Lisa B.
Price: $25-$45; Number of sites: 55; Read more
5. Campground at James Island County Park — South Carolina
Location: Charleston, SC
What makes it a top dog: James Island County Park has an awesome, very large dog park that includes a lake with a beach area perfect for water-loving dogs, along with separate spaces within the dog park for dogs of different sizes. The 643-acre park provides extensive opportunities for dogs to exercise and explore alongside their owners.
The property features over five miles of paved trails that wind throughout the park, offering scenic paths where you and your dog can enjoy the outdoors together. The well-maintained grounds — including 16 acres of freshwater lakes — open meadows and wooded areas create a beautiful natural setting where dogs can experience fresh air and nature during your stay.
What The Dyrt’s community of dog-lovers has to say: “There are a lot of shaded picturesque walking and bike trails in the park. The dog park was amazingly big, with a little doggy beach for water lovers.” — SummertimeRVrovers J.
Price: $38-$219; Number of sites: 116; Read more
6. Sweet Escape RV Resort — Arkansas
Location: Austin, AR
What makes it a top dog: Sweet Escape RV Resort features a large, spacious, fenced dog park where pups can run and play freely. Well-maintained walking trails wind throughout the property, offering peaceful opportunities for strolls and exercise with your dog.
Guests have noted the charm of blackberry-lined trails and the overall family-friendly, peaceful atmosphere that is welcoming for pets. With full hookups for RVs, clean facilities that are maintained daily, and a commitment to creating a relaxing experience, Sweet Escape combines dog-specific amenities with the overall comforts and conveniences needed for a pleasant camping trip.
What The Dyrt’s community of dog-lovers has to say: “Second time staying there. Even better than the first time. The dog park is fabulous, enough room for 2 German Shepherds to run.” — Ronnie B.
Price: $45; Number of sites: 34; Read more
7. Alum Creek State Park — Ohio
Location: Delaware, OH
What makes it a top dog: Alum Creek State Park Campground offers an exceptional experience for dog owners. The dog park and large off-leash area where dogs can run free receives praise from campers. This campground boasts two large fenced-in fields for both small and big dogs and two large fenced-in areas with lake access where doggie beach areas are set aside for doggy paddling. Tennis balls are in abundance and water stations are there to make sure hot dogs stay cool.
Multiple well-maintained walking trails wind throughout the park, offering plenty of opportunities for hikes and outdoor adventure. The expansive 3,387-acre lake surrounding the campground provides additional water access, and campers consistently report having plenty of trails and water spots for their dogs’ enjoyment. Side note: There are also 30 first-come, first-served equestrian sites at Alum Creek.
What The Dyrt’s community of dog-lovers has to say: “There is also a very nice dog park in the park including dog beaches with lake access for your pups to swim. We love this campground and the beautiful lake and appreciate the easy access to local attractions, shopping, and more.” — Marshall P.
Price: $23-$70; Number of sites: 316; Read more
8. Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground — California
Location: Buellton, CA
What makes it a top dog: Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground is located in the scenic Santa Ynez Valley wine country, and the campground’s vibe matches that relaxed atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to get away with your pooch, as the campground was set up with pet parents in mind so campers can relax and focus on fun.
The fenced “Let Your Leash Down” dog park gives pups room to run and socialize off-leash in a safe, contained space. Some sites at Flying Flags accommodate multiple dogs while “dog friendly” signs mark the RV sites, cottages and vintage trailers where they’ll be most comfortable.
What The Dyrt’s community of dog-lovers has to say: “This place is amazing! Wonderful staff! Lovely tent sites! The general store is great and really helpful! The pool is lovely! Everyone is so nice! If you have kids definitely bring their bikes/Scooter’s! The playground is loads of fun and my dog loves it there!” — groverlicious1
Price: $65-$150; Number of sites: 360; Read more
9. Madison RV Resort & Golf Course — Florida
Location: Madison, FL
What makes it a top dog: Madison RV & Golf Resort has nine holes of golf and two acres of fenced-in dog park. The property has separate fenced areas for small dogs and large dogs — an upgrade made after a request from a camper — allowing pets of all sizes to socialize and exercise safely.
There are walking trails throughout the property and along the front of the golf course, giving dogs plenty of scenic opportunities to explore. The adult-oriented resort atmosphere includes organized group walks as regular activities, creating a welcoming community for guests who enjoy spending time outdoors with their pups.
What The Dyrt’s community of dog-lovers has to say: “We enjoyed this campground as this was our 4th year coming back. … It’s more adult-oriented with a pickleball court and activities such as group walks or special events like golf tournaments/leagues, karaoke, game nights, and potlucks. There is a large (about 2 acres) fenced dog park with a fenced-off area for small dogs.” — MickandKarla W.
Price: $33-$79; Number of sites: 95; Read more