There’s something deeply satisfying about setting out into the Ontario wilderness with your dog in tow. Whether it’s watching your pup splash in a local lake or curl up beside the campfire after a long day on the trails, camping with your dog can add a new layer of joy and companionship to the outdoor experience. But a smooth trip with your four-legged friend takes more than just enthusiasm. Planning, awareness, and a bit of backwoods wisdom can make all the difference.
From choosing the right park to keeping your dog safe, here’s how to make sure your camping trip is memorable for all the right reasons.
Pick the right park or campground
Ontario is packed with a vast array of parks, from the rolling pine forests of Killarney to the windswept shores of Lake Superior. Many provincial parks allow dogs, but not all are created equal when it comes to pet-friendliness. Some offer designated off-leash areas and even dog beaches, like Pinery’s dog-friendly shoreline or Bon Echo’s popular pet beach near Sawmill Bay. Others restrict dogs from certain trails or swimming areas altogether.
Before you book, take time to read the specific pet rules for your destination. Ontario Parks' website has filters to help you find dog-friendly options. If you’re heading to a private campground or conservation area, call ahead since policies can vary widely.
Know before you go: leashes, wildlife, and trail etiquette
A key part of any dog-friendly camping experience is making sure your pup is a good guest in the wild. Most parks require dogs to be leashed at all times with a maximum leash length of two metres (about six feet). That rule exists not just for other campers’ comfort, but for your dog’s safety. Ontario is home to a range of wildlife: black bears, porcupines, skunks, coyotes, and even venomous snakes in southern parts of the province. An off-leash dog can quickly get into dangerous territory or provoke an animal encounter that puts both of you at risk.
You’ll also need to be mindful of noise. A barking dog might be tolerable at home, but at a quiet campsite it can be the difference between peace and frustration—for you and your neighbours. If your dog is particularly reactive or anxious, you may want to choose a more secluded site or camp during the shoulder season when parks are quieter.
On the trails, be respectful of other hikers and wildlife. Be mindful of letting your dog chase squirrels or cut across trail switchbacks. And always pack out your pet’s waste (yes, even deep in the backcountry). Decomposing dog poop can introduce bacteria into delicate ecosystems and harm native plants.
What to pack for your pup
Before you head out, take a moment to think about what your dog will need to be comfortable and safe in a camping environment. Just like you wouldn’t forget your raincoat or hiking boots, your dog needs a few items to handle the weather, terrain, and pace of outdoor life too.
Your dog’s camping checklist should include:
- A sturdy 2-metre leash and a longer tether for around the campsite
- A harness, especially for hiking rough or steep trails
- Collapsible food and water bowls
- Enough water for both of you (don’t count on lake or stream water because many are unsafe due to algae or parasites)
- Sealed food storage to prevent wildlife encounters
- Biodegradable poop bags
- Dog-safe insect repellent and up-to-date tick and flea protection
- A pet first-aid kit with items like bandage wrap, tweezers, antiseptic wipes, and vet contact info
- A sleeping mat or blanket to keep them off cold, damp ground
- A towel for drying off after swims or muddy hikes
- Optional but useful: a dog raincoat, paw balm, and a cooling vest for hot summer days
If you’re heading into the backcountry, weight becomes a factor. Some dogs can wear a well-fitted dog pack to carry some of their own supplies, but you’ll need to train them on short hikes first.
Watch the weather
Ontario’s climate can be unpredictable. Summer days can easily top 30°C, while nights in the northern parks can dip below 10°C even in July. Make sure your dog has access to shade and cool water throughout the day. Avoid strenuous hikes during peak heat hours and check paws regularly for signs of burns on hot rock or sand.
In cooler temps, smaller or short-haired dogs may need a jacket or insulated bed to sleep comfortably. Even hardy breeds can get chilled if they’re wet or lying directly on the cold ground.
Always be alert to signs of heatstroke or hypothermia. Heavy panting, disorientation, excessive drooling, or shivering can be early warnings. Don’t wait: cool your dog down or warm them up as needed, and don’t hesitate to end a trip early if your pet’s wellbeing is in question.
Test runs make for better trips
If your dog has never been camping before, don’t start with a four-night backcountry paddle in Temagami. Try an overnight car camping trip at a quieter park closer to home. Watch how they handle sleeping in a tent, being tethered, hearing strange noises at night, and meeting other campers.
This dry run is a great way to spot potential issues, whether it’s a need for better tick protection or realizing your dog isn’t comfortable around campfires.
Respect local rules and the environment
In a national park, provincial park, or on Crown land, it’s your responsibility to know the local regulations. Some trails, especially in ecologically sensitive areas, don’t allow dogs at all, while others may have seasonal restrictions due to nesting birds or wildlife activity.
Be respectful, even if it means skipping a trail you had your heart set on. Your dog’s presence has an impact, and being a responsible camper means minimizing that impact as much as possible.
Adventure awaits
Camping with your dog in Ontario is one of the best ways to deepen your bond and explore this province’s natural beauty together. With some research, the right gear, and a commitment to trail etiquette, you can take a trip that’s rewarding for both you and your dog—and one that leaves no pawprint behind.
So go ahead. Pack the treats, load up the car, and find a spot where your dog can sniff the wind and sleep under the stars. The woods are waiting.
