Sleeping in the wild is a primal experience. It awakens our senses, allowing us to see, hear, feel, taste and breathe in the gifts of Nature. Whether you’re camping, or taking it up a notch and going glamping, the unadulterated joy you’ll feel from being immersed in Nature will help you deepen connections with yourself and your friends and family.

For many, dogs are a beloved member of the family, so instead of boarding your pup or hiring a dog sitter, pack up their dog food and bring them along for an adventure in the great outdoors! Never been glamping (or camping!) with your pup? We've got you covered with a few tips for a comfy, adventure-filled getaway.

Pup Preparation

Before booking a reservation, review the property’s pet policies to ensure you and your dog are prepared for your overnight outdoor experience. Most properties, including Firelight Camps, require that your dog be leashed in all public spaces for the safety of fellow campers. To mitigate disruptive barking and help dogs feel relaxed during their stay, dogs cannot be left alone in tents. BringFido.com is a great resource when planning your trip to find dog-friendly restaurants and spaces so you can bring your pup with you wherever you go!

Consider Space

To ensure both you and your dog are comfortable in your tent, ask your glamping property what type of space and furnishings will be included in your tent. You’ll want to make sure there’s a space for your dog to sleep, if they won’t be sleeping in bed with you. You can also take a look at the property’s gallery to see the interior of your tent. If you’re camping in your own tent, you’ll need to select a tent that has enough room to comfortably accommodate your dog.

Pack Toys

In any new environment, dogs can become anxious with their senses heightened by new smells and sounds. To help your pup feel right at home in your tent, bring one or two of their favorite toys to enjoy as you settle in for the night. The familiar smell of their own toy, or even their favorite blanket, will comfort them in an unfamiliar place.

Pack Extra Water

Even the most active dogs will likely be more thirsty than usual while exploring the wild, so be sure to have extra water on hand, especially when hiking. When you’re packing for your trip, include travel dog bowls for on-the-go hydration. Here at Firelight, we offer a communal water dish for our 4-legged guests in our lobby tent!

Review Trail Restrictions

Not all parks are dog-friendly, so as you plan your itinerary and the places you want to visit while camping or glamping, check to see if dogs are allowed and if there are leash rules that you’ll be expected to follow. Buttermilk Falls State Park is the closest park to Firelight Camps with the trailhead located on the property and leashed dogs are welcome throughout the park.

Paw Protection

If your pup is more familiar with city streets than wooded terrain, you may want to consider applying a wax pay protector to avoid cracking or splitting. This all natural recipe for paw wax can even be made at home. After exploring the trails around camp, check your pup's paws for any irritation or debris.

Glamping & Camping With Dogs: Tips For A Comfortable Stay In The Wild