Dog Camping UK 2026 - Best Sites + Equipment

1. Traditional pitch-up campsites:

• Tent or campervan plots on organised sites.
• Most cost-effective option (~GBP 15-30/night pitch).
• Dog fee usually GBP 1-5/night per dog.
• Variable facilities: toilets, showers, electric hook-ups, washing-up areas.
• UK norm: dogs on lead in shared site areas; allowed off-lead in dedicated walking fields where provided.

2. Glamping (yurts, shepherd's huts, safari tents):

• Comfortable middle-ground between hotel + camping.
• Typically GBP 80-150/night.
• Most allow 1-2 dogs; some specific dog-friendly glamping sites.
• Solid floor + insulation makes for better dog comfort than tents.

3. Wild camping:

• Legal only in Scotland (Right to Roam) and Dartmoor (specific permitted areas).
• England + Wales: technically requires landowner permission.
• Suitable for experienced dog campers + recall-confident dogs only.
• Strictest environment - all dog waste must be packed out.

For the dog:

• Portable water bowl (collapsible).
• Water carrier: 2L minimum per dog per day.
• Dog tent / sleeping pad (or section of own tent).
• Dog sleeping bag or thermal blanket for cool nights.
• Tick spray + treatment.
• Dog jacket for cold weather.
• Spare leads + collar.
• Recall whistle.
• GPS tracker (Apple AirTag or Tractive).

Safety + identification:

• ISO microchip - already required by UK law.
• Collar ID tag with current mobile + address.
• Visible LED collar light for dawn/dusk + night walks.
• Reflective harness for road sections.

Food + treats:

• Daily food allowance + 2-day surplus.
• High-value treats for recall reinforcement.
• Poo bags - more than you think you need.

Health + emergency:

• Vet contact + insurance policy details printed.
• First-aid kit including paw tape, wound powder, eye wash.
• Sun protection (for white-coated breeds + bald spots).

The Camping + Caravanning Club:

• UK's most dog-welcoming chain.
• ~150 sites across UK.
• Most allow 2 dogs per pitch; some 3-4.
• Annual membership GBP 50 covers booking + member discount.

Pitchup.com listings:

• Aggregator of independent campsites.
• Dog-friendly filter available.
• Reviews specifically from dog owners.
• Wide range from basic farms to comfort glamping.

Caravan + Motorhome Club:

• Strong network for caravan/motorhome dog families.
• Less tent-friendly.
• 2 dogs per pitch typical.

National Trust campsites:

• Few sites but high-quality locations.
• Lake District, Peak District examples.
• 1-2 dogs typical.

UK Glamping Holidays (dedicated dog options):

• Yurts, safari tents, shepherd's huts specifically dog-marketed.
• Premium pricing but comfort.

Lake District:

• Multiple dog-welcoming campsites (Coniston, Eskdale, Wasdale).
• Vast off-lead walking opportunities.
• Year-round dog access on most trails.

Peak District:

• Edale + Castleton areas strong.
• Hill + dale walking.
• Closer to Manchester + Sheffield for ease of access.

Snowdonia:

• Llanberis + Capel Curig campsites.
• Mountain walking + coastal extension via Anglesey.

North York Moors:

• Multiple campsites - Goathland, Rosedale Abbey.
• Moorland + coast combinations.

South Downs Way:

• South Downs National Park campsites.
• Long-distance trail dog walking.

South Devon (Dartmoor + coast):

• Dartmoor National Park + several coastal campsites.
• Our published Beara Lodge Glamping (paw 5.0/5) is a standout safari-tent option.

Pre-trip preparation:

• Practice tent setup at home with dog present.
• 2-3 short overnight trial trips before week-long camping.
• Familiarise dog with cooler night temperatures.

First-night tips:

• Arrive in daylight - setting up in dark with anxious dog hard.
• Walk dog before pitching - tired dog settles better.
• Keep familiar bedding from home in tent.

Daytime management:

• Multiple short walks better than one long for first-time dog camper.
• Reward calm in-tent behaviour.
• Keep dog hydrated - they often drink less when stressed in new environment.