Tag: Camping with a Dog

  • 4 Dog-Friendly Campgrounds We’ve Loved Visiting with Our Schnauzer

    4 Dog-Friendly Campgrounds We’ve Loved Visiting with Our Schnauzer

    One of the reasons we purchased a travel trailer was so we could bring our miniature schnauzer along on more adventures. Over the years, we’ve learned that not all campgrounds offer the same experience for traveling families with dogs.

    Some campgrounds simply allow pets. Others go out of their way to create an environment where both people and dogs feel welcome.

    As we’ve explored the Carolinas and surrounding areas, a few campgrounds have stood out for their family-friendly atmosphere, pet-friendly amenities, and overall camping experience. These are four destinations that left a positive impression on our family and earned a spot on our list of favorite dog-friendly campgrounds.

    Palmetto Shores RV Resort – Summerton, South Carolina

    Palmetto Shores RV Resort quickly became one of our favorite campground destinations in South Carolina.

    Located on the shores of Lake Marion, the resort combines beautiful waterfront views with activities that appeal to both families and pet owners. One of the first things we noticed was how much space there was to walk around the property.

    Our schnauzer enjoyed the daily walks, and we appreciated having plenty of room to explore without feeling crowded.

    What We Loved

    • Beautiful views of Lake Marion
    • Spacious RV sites
    • Resort-style amenities
    • Family-friendly atmosphere
    • Plenty of walking opportunities

    The pool area, lazy river, and beach access provide plenty of entertainment for families, while the open grounds make it easy to enjoy time outdoors with your dog.

    Things to Consider

    Summer temperatures in South Carolina can become quite warm, especially during the afternoon. We found that early morning and evening walks were much more comfortable for both us and our schnauzer. We also recommend checking before booking and reviewing policy changes. We booked before when the pool was being repaired.

    Jellystone Park – Tabor City, North Carolina

    If your family enjoys activities and entertainment, Jellystone Park in Tabor City is hard to beat.

    This campground feels more like a family resort than a traditional campground. There always seemed to be something happening, from water activities and playgrounds to themed events and family programs.

    While many visitors come for the kid-focused attractions, we appreciated that our schnauzer could be part of the trip as well.

    What We Loved

    • Family activities throughout the campground
    • Water attractions and pools
    • Clean facilities
    • Spacious layout
    • Welcoming atmosphere

    Even after busy days enjoying the amenities, we were still able to find quiet areas for evening walks with our dog.

    Things to Consider

    Because Jellystone is such a popular destination for families, weekends and holidays can be busy. If your dog prefers quieter environments, visiting during less crowded times may be worth considering. We also recommend checking before booking and reviewing policy changes.

    Savannah Lakes RV Resort – Hardeeville, South Carolina

    Savannah Lakes RV Resort offers one of our favorite combinations: a relaxing campground atmosphere with easy access to nearby attractions.

    The location makes it convenient to visit Savannah, Georgia while still enjoying the comforts of a modern RV resort.

    One feature we especially appreciated was the campground’s attention to pet owners.

    What We Loved

    • Dedicated dog park (Our miniature schnauzer especially loved this)
    • Beautiful, well-maintained grounds
    • Convenient location near Savannah
    • Spacious sites
    • Resort-style amenities

    After spending a day exploring Savannah, it was nice returning to a campground where our schnauzer could enjoy some exercise and fresh air.

    Things to Consider

    Spring and fall tend to be especially popular seasons because of the comfortable temperatures and nearby sightseeing opportunities. We also recommend checking before booking and reviewing policy changes.

    Angel’s Landing Campground

    Angel’s Landing provided a different experience from the larger resort-style campgrounds on this list.

    What we enjoyed most was the relaxed atmosphere and connection to nature. This campground felt like a place where families could slow down, spend time outdoors, and enjoy simple camping experiences.

    What We Loved

    • Peaceful setting
    • Outdoor recreation opportunities
    • Family-friendly environment
    • Pet-friendly atmosphere
    • Relaxing pace

    Our schnauzer always seems happiest when there are plenty of opportunities to explore, sniff, and spend time outdoors, and Angel’s Landing offered exactly that.

    Things to Consider

    This campground focuses more on outdoor recreation and nature than resort-style amenities, which may be appealing depending on the type of camping trip you’re planning. We also recommend checking before booking and reviewing policy changes.

    Tips for Camping with Dogs

    After many camping trips with our schnauzer, we’ve found that a little preparation goes a long way.

    We always bring:

    We also try to walk our dog around the campground shortly after arriving. This gives her a chance to become familiar with the new environment and helps her settle in more quickly.

    Schnauzer standing in front of our camper

    Final Thoughts

    Camping with our miniature schnauzer has created some of our favorite family memories. Whether we’re enjoying waterfront views at Palmetto Shores, family activities at Jellystone, exploring near Savannah Lakes, or relaxing at Angel’s Landing, each campground offers something unique.

    The best campground for your family will depend on the type of experience you’re looking for, but all four destinations provided enjoyable experiences for both our family and our dog.

    If you’re planning your next RV trip with your four-legged family member, these campgrounds are worth adding to your list.

    Policies, fees, operating hours, and pet rules can change. We recommend confirming current information directly with the campground before your visit.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which campground was your schnauzer’s favorite?

    Each campground offered something different, but campgrounds with plenty of walking space and dog-friendly amenities were always a hit. Our miniature schnauzer loves the dog parks.

    Do all four campgrounds allow dogs?

    At the time of our visits, all four campgrounds welcomed dogs, although specific pet policies may vary.

    Which campground is best for families with children?

    Jellystone Park Tabor City offers the largest variety of kid-focused activities during our experiences.

    Which campground is best for a relaxing getaway?

    Angel’s Landing offered a quieter atmosphere compared to larger entertainment-focused campgrounds for our experience.

    Do these campgrounds accommodate RVs?

    Yes, all four destinations offer RV accommodations, although site sizes and hookups vary.

    What should I pack when camping with a dog?

    Water bowls, leashes, food, waste bags, medications, bedding, and vaccination records are all important items to bring.

    Affiliate Disclosure

    This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products, services, and destinations that we genuinely believe may be helpful to our readers.

    Advertising Disclosure

    Travelers and a Schnauzer participates in advertising programs, including Google AdSense. Advertisements displayed on this site help support our content and allow us to continue sharing travel tips, destination guides, camping adventures, vacation rental experiences, and travels with our miniature schnauzer.

  • Rainy Day Activities While Camping With a Dog

    Rainy Day Activities While Camping With a Dog

    If you’ve camped long enough, you’ve probably learned the same lesson we have—eventually, rain is going to find you.

    No matter how carefully we watch the forecast before hitching up our travel trailer, weather can change quickly. We’ve experienced everything from light mountain showers to full days of steady rain while camping throughout the Southeast.

    At first, rainy camping days felt disappointing. We would arrive with plans for hiking, exploring nearby attractions, and spending most of the day outdoors. Then the rain would arrive, and suddenly our itinerary looked very different.

    Over time, we’ve learned that rainy camping days don’t have to ruin a trip. In fact, some of our favorite camping memories have happened while listening to rain on the roof of our camper, playing games as a family, cooking comfort food, and relaxing with our Miniature Schnauzer curled up nearby.

    If your next camping trip includes less-than-perfect weather, here are some of our favorite ways to stay entertained and make the most of a rainy day.

    Why Rainy Camping Days Can Be Surprisingly Enjoyable

    One thing camping has taught us is that not every memorable travel moment happens during an exciting adventure.

    Sometimes the best moments happen when everything slows down.

    Rain often gives us permission to take a break from constantly moving and enjoy simple things:

    • Family conversations
    • Reading a good book
    • Playing games
    • Watching a movie together
    • Planning future trips
    • Spending extra time with our schnauzer

    Instead of focusing on what we can’t do, we try to focus on what the slower pace allows us to enjoy.

    Start the Day Slow

    When rain arrives overnight, we usually embrace a slower morning.

    Instead of rushing out for a hike, we enjoy breakfast inside the camper and listen to the sound of rain hitting the roof.

    There is something surprisingly relaxing about staying warm and comfortable inside while watching the campground wake up through the windows.

    Our Favorite Rainy Morning Routine

    A typical rainy camping morning might include:

    • Coffee for the adults
    • A hot breakfast
    • Checking the weather forecast
    • Watching a little TV
    • Reading
    • Planning the rest of the day

    Our Miniature Schnauzer usually settles into her bed or claims a cozy spot on the couch while we relax.

    Camping Comfort Items We Love

    A few items help make rainy mornings more comfortable:

    Play Indoor Games With Your Dog

    One challenge on rainy camping days is making sure your dog still gets enough mental stimulation.

    Physical exercise may be limited, but mental activities can help burn energy and prevent boredom.

    Indoor Activities We Use

    Our schnauzer enjoys:

    • Hide-and-seek with treats
    • Basic obedience practice
    • Trick training sessions
    • Tug-of-war
    • Indoor fetch using soft toys
    • Puzzle toys

    Why Mental Exercise Matters

    A mentally engaged dog is often a calmer dog.

    Even fifteen to twenty minutes of training or problem-solving activities can help keep your dog occupied while waiting for the weather to improve.

    Helpful items include:

    Have a Family Game Day

    Rainy days are one reason we always keep a small collection of games in our travel trailer.

    Board games and card games require very little storage space but can provide hours of entertainment.

    Games We Frequently Bring

    Some of our family favorites include:

    • Uno
    • Yahtzee
    • Connect Four
    • Battleship
    • Playing cards
    • Skip-Bo

    Why We Always Pack Games

    Games are useful because they work whether you’re camping for a weekend or an extended vacation.

    They also provide a nice break from screens while creating family memories.

    Watch Movies or TV Together

    While we enjoy unplugging when we camp, rainy afternoons sometimes become movie afternoons.

    When the weather isn’t cooperating, we turn our camper into a cozy movie room.

    What We Usually Watch

    Some rainy day favorites include:

    • Family movies
    • Nature documentaries
    • Travel shows
    • Camping YouTube channels
    • Favorite TV series

    Our schnauzer almost always finds the best seat in the camper and settles in for the show.

    Helpful Camping Technology

    A few items that make rainy movie days easier:

    Research Nearby Attractions

    Rain often changes our plans, but it can also help us discover attractions we may have overlooked.

    During slower afternoons, we often spend time researching nearby activities that might work once the weather clears.

    Attractions We Look For

    Depending on the area, we may search for:

    • Pet-friendly restaurants
    • Coffee shops
    • Local bakeries
    • Museums
    • Historic sites
    • Covered shopping areas
    • Local markets
    • Visitor centers

    We’ve actually found some of our favorite travel stops this way.

    Important Reminder

    Always verify pet policies before visiting any attraction, restaurant, or business.

    Cook a Comfort Meal

    Rain and comfort food seem to go together naturally.

    When the weather keeps us indoors, we often use the opportunity to prepare one of our favorite camping meals.

    Our Rainy-Day Camping Favorites

    Some meals we enjoy include:

    • Chicken quesadillas
    • Burgers and fries
    • Breakfast-for-dinner
    • Sous vide meals
    • Grilled cheese and soup
    • Breakfast casserole

    Helpful Cooking Gear

    Some of our favorite camping kitchen items include:

    Create a Travel Memory Journal

    Rainy afternoons provide the perfect opportunity to slow down and reflect on your trip.

    Things We Like To Do

    When we’re relaxing inside the camper, we often:

    • Organize photos
    • Sort videos
    • Update our travel bucket list
    • Plan future destinations
    • Make notes about favorite campgrounds
    • Record travel memories

    These quiet moments often become some of our favorite parts of camping.

    Take Advantage of Breaks in the Weather

    Many rainy days include occasional breaks.

    When we notice the rain slowing down, we try to get outside for a few minutes.

    Quick Activities During Rain Breaks

    We may:

    • Walk around the campground
    • Let our schnauzer stretch her legs
    • Take photos
    • Explore nearby trails
    • Enjoy fresh air

    Even a short walk can make a huge difference.

    Be Prepared Before Rain Arrives

    Preparation makes rainy camping days much easier.

    Rainy Day Camping Supplies We Always Pack

    For our dog:

    For the family:

    • Extra blankets
    • Indoor games
    • Books
    • Charging cables
    • Movie downloads
    • Rain gear

    Having these items available means we’re prepared no matter what the forecast brings.

    Family Travel Tips for Rainy Camping Days

    Avoid Over-Scheduling

    Rain can disrupt plans, so we try not to pack every day with activities.

    A flexible itinerary makes weather delays much less stressful.

    Keep Snacks Available

    Nothing improves a rainy day quite like good snacks.

    We always keep extra snacks in the camper so we don’t have to leave the campground if conditions worsen.

    Stay Positive

    Children often follow the attitude of the adults.

    Treating rain as part of the adventure helps everyone enjoy the experience more.

    Dog-Friendly Camping Tips for Rainy Weather

    Dry Your Dog Frequently

    Wet dogs can quickly make a camper messy.

    Keeping towels near the door helps control muddy paws.

    Monitor Outdoor Time

    Short potty breaks may be necessary if storms become severe.

    Bring Familiar Comfort Items

    Our schnauzer is happiest when she has familiar items nearby, including:

    • Her bed
    • Favorite toy
    • Blanket
    • Treats

    These familiar comforts help make rainy days feel relaxing rather than stressful.

    Final Thoughts

    Rainy camping days rarely look the way we planned, but they’ve often become some of our most memorable camping experiences.

    We’ve learned that camping isn’t just about perfect weather. It’s about spending time together, making memories, and enjoying the journey regardless of what the forecast says.

    Whether we’re playing games, cooking comfort food, watching a movie, or simply listening to rain fall on the roof of our travel trailer, those slower moments often become the stories we remember most.

    The next time rain arrives during your camping trip, consider it an opportunity to enjoy a different side of camping. You may discover that some of the best camping memories happen when the adventure slows down.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What can you do while camping when it rains?

    Popular rainy-day camping activities include board games, movies, reading, cooking, journaling, dog training, and exploring nearby attractions during breaks in the weather.

    How do you keep a dog entertained while camping in the rain?

    Indoor training sessions, treat puzzles, hide-and-seek games, tug-of-war, and obedience practice can help provide mental stimulation.

    What should I pack for rainy weather camping with a dog?

    Consider packing towels, paw cleaners, dog wipes, rain jackets, extra blankets, toys, and portable water bowls.

    Is camping in the rain still fun?

    Absolutely. Rainy camping days often provide opportunities to slow down, relax, enjoy family time, and create memorable experiences.

    How do you keep a camper clean during rainy weather?

    Keep towels by the door, wipe paws frequently, use a portable paw cleaner, and designate a place for wet gear.

    Should you cancel a camping trip because of rain?

    Not necessarily. Light to moderate rain can still allow for enjoyable camping experiences, but severe weather forecasts should always be taken seriously.

    You May also Like

    Complete Travel Trailer Setup Checklist: Our Step-by-Step Routine for Stress-Free Camping
    Family Road Trip Packing Checklist: Everything We Bring for Stress-Free Travel
    First-Time RV Camping Checklist: Everything You Need for a Stress-Free First Trip

    Affiliate Disclosure

    This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products, services, and destinations that we genuinely believe may be helpful to our readers.

    Advertising Disclosure

    Travelers and a Schnauzer participates in advertising programs, including Google AdSense. Advertisements displayed on this site help support our content and allow us to continue sharing travel tips, destination guides, camping adventures, vacation rental experiences, and travels with our miniature schnauzer.