Tag: pet friendly campgrounds

  • 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.

    You May also Like

    15 Things We Always Pack for Camping With Our Schnauzer
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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.

  • Campground Booking Checklist: What We Check Before Reserving a Site

    Campground Booking Checklist: What We Check Before Reserving a Site

    Introduction

    One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned from traveling with our family, travel trailer, and miniature schnauzer is that booking a campground involves much more than simply finding an available site.

    A campground may look perfect in photos, but details such as site size, pet policies, hookups, road conditions, and nearby amenities can make a huge difference once you arrive.

    Over the years, we’ve developed a campground booking checklist that helps us choose campgrounds that fit our family’s needs while making sure our schnauzer is comfortable too. Taking a few extra minutes to research before making a reservation has helped us avoid unexpected surprises and enjoy more relaxing camping trips.

    Whether you’re planning your first RV adventure or you’re an experienced camper, here’s what we recommend checking before reserving your next campsite.


    Start With the Campground’s Pet Policies

    Since our schnauzer travels almost everywhere with us, pet policies are one of the first things we review.

    Not every campground that advertises itself as pet-friendly has the same rules.

    Things We Always Check

    • Number of pets allowed
    • Pet fees
    • Breed restrictions
    • Leash requirements
    • Designated pet areas
    • Dog park availability
    • Trail access for dogs

    Some campgrounds provide fenced dog parks, waste stations, and dedicated walking trails, while others only allow pets at campsites.

    Knowing these details ahead of time helps us determine whether the campground is a good fit for our family.


    Confirm the Campsite Will Accommodate Your RV

    Not all campsites are created equal.

    Before booking, we carefully review site dimensions to make sure our travel trailer and tow vehicle will fit comfortably. We learned our second travel trailer took a lot more research in finding the right spot at the campground due to its length.

    Important Questions to Ask

    • What is the maximum RV length allowed?
    • Is the site back-in or pull-through?
    • How much room is available for slide-outs?
    • Is there parking for the tow vehicle?
    • Are roads inside the campground easy to navigate?

    When available, we always review site photos or campground maps.

    Certain mountain campgrounds can have steep roads and tighter sites, making this step especially important.


    Verify Available Hookups

    Hookups can dramatically affect your camping experience.

    We prefer full-hookup sites whenever possible because they provide added convenience during longer stays.

    Hookup Information to Confirm

    • Water connection
    • Sewer connection
    • 30-amp electric service
    • 50-amp electric service
    • Dump station access
    • Wi-Fi availability
    • Cable television access

    If you’re traveling during summer months, ensuring your electrical service can support air conditioning is particularly important.


    Research Cell Service and Internet Availability

    Many of the destinations we enjoy have limited cellular coverage.

    While disconnecting can be part of the experience, we still like knowing what to expect before arriving.

    Helpful Information to Look For

    • Cell coverage reports
    • Campground Wi-Fi reviews
    • Nearby public Wi-Fi options
    • Recent guest comments regarding connectivity

    Reading recent reviews often provides the most accurate picture of current service levels.


    Review Campground Rules Before Booking

    Every campground has its own set of rules.

    Taking a few minutes to review them beforehand can help avoid misunderstandings later.

    Policies We Review

    • Quiet hours
    • Generator use
    • Firewood restrictions
    • Campfire regulations
    • Visitor policies
    • Golf cart rules
    • Pet requirements

    Understanding these expectations ahead of time helps ensure a smoother camping experience for everyone.


    Look Beyond the Campground

    Sometimes the surrounding area matters just as much as the campground itself.

    We often choose campgrounds based on nearby attractions and activities.

    Nearby Amenities We Research

    • Grocery stores
    • Gas stations
    • Restaurants
    • Hiking trails
    • Scenic drives
    • Historic attractions
    • Visitor centers
    • Emergency veterinary clinics

    Having these resources nearby can make a trip much easier, especially when traveling with children and pets.


    Consider Family-Friendly Amenities

    As a family, we appreciate campgrounds that offer activities beyond the campsite.

    While amenities aren’t always necessary, they can add extra value to a stay.

    Popular Family Amenities

    • Playgrounds
    • Swimming pools
    • Fishing ponds
    • Nature trails
    • Recreation centers
    • Mini golf
    • Planned campground activities
    • Arcades

    These features can be especially helpful during rainy days or downtime between adventures.


    Evaluate Site Privacy and Comfort

    One feature we appreciate is having a campsite that feels comfortable and relaxing.

    Photos often help determine whether a site provides the type of environment we’re looking for.

    Features We Like

    • Shade trees
    • Room between campsites
    • Scenic views
    • Level parking pads
    • Easy access to walking areas
    • Reduced road noise

    Every camper has different preferences, but considering comfort ahead of time can significantly improve your overall experience.


    Understand the Cancellation Policy

    Travel plans can change unexpectedly.

    Before finalizing a reservation, we always review the campground’s cancellation policy.

    Important Details

    • Refund deadlines
    • Cancellation fees
    • Date change policies
    • Weather-related cancellation options
    • Reservation transfer policies

    Knowing these terms before booking helps prevent disappointment later.


    Our Campground Booking Checklist

    Before reserving a campsite, we ask ourselves:

    ✔ Is the campground pet-friendly?

    ✔ Will our travel trailer fit comfortably?

    ✔ Will our tow vehicle fit in the campsite with our travel trailer?

    ✔ Does the site provide the hookups we need?

    ✔ Have we reviewed campground rules?

    ✔ Are recent reviews positive?

    ✔ Is cell service available?

    ✔ Are grocery stores and attractions nearby?

    ✔ Is there a nearby veterinarian if needed?

    ✔ Does the campground offer family-friendly amenities?

    ✔ Do we understand the cancellation policy?

    If we can answer yes to most of these questions, we’re usually comfortable moving forward with a reservation.


    Family Travel Tips

    • Keep campground confirmation emails easily accessible.
    • Save campground directions before leaving home.
    • Arrive before dark whenever possible.
    • Keep emergency contact information available.
    • Bring entertainment options for children during travel days.

    Helpful items we often bring include a portable power bank and a campground directory app.


    Dog-Friendly Travel Tips

    Our schnauzer is part of every camping adventure, so we always pack a few essentials.

    Helpful items include:

    Checking campground pet policies before arrival helps ensure a smooth stay for both pets and owners.


    Final Thoughts

    Booking the right campground starts long before arrival day.

    Taking time to research campsite dimensions, pet policies, hookups, amenities, and nearby attractions can help create a much more enjoyable camping experience.

    Our campground booking checklist has become an essential part of planning every trip. It helps us find campgrounds that work well for our family, our travel trailer, and our miniature schnauzer while reducing the chances of unexpected surprises.

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


    Frequently Asked Questions

    How far in advance should I book a campground?

    Popular campgrounds often fill several months in advance, especially during summer, holidays, and peak fall foliage seasons.

    What information do I need before booking an RV site?

    You’ll typically need your RV length, number of guests, pet information, and desired hookup requirements.

    Are all campgrounds pet-friendly?

    No. While many campgrounds welcome pets, policies vary regarding fees, breed restrictions, and designated pet areas.

    What is the difference between full hookups and partial hookups?

    Full hookups typically include water, sewer, and electric service. Partial hookups usually provide electric and water only.

    Should I read campground reviews before booking?

    Yes. Recent reviews often provide valuable insight into cleanliness, amenities, road conditions, and overall guest experiences.

    Are pull-through sites worth the extra cost?

    For many RV owners, pull-through sites provide easier setup and departure, particularly for larger RVs or newer campers.


    You May also Like

    15 Things We Always Pack for Camping With Our Schnauzer
    Camping With a Miniature Schnauzer: Lessons We’ve Learned
    Complete Travel Trailer Setup Checklist: Our Step-by-Step Routine for Stress-Free Camping


    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.