Ruffwear x Hipcamp: The Best Off-Leash Campsites
Days of adventure, the smell of campfire, and snuggling in your tent under the stars. The joy of camping with your dog is hard to beat. But if you’re thinking of heading to a state park or other established campground, it can be difficult to find somewhere your companion is free to roam. (We get it — the rules are there for a reason!)
That’s why Ruffwear is so excited to partner with Hipcamp, the number-one app for finding tent camping, RV parks, cabins, treehouses, and glamping. Check out these amazing off-leash Hipcamps where you and your dog can spend some quality time together.
James River Depot – Glasgow, VA
Nestled near the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, James River Depot offers five tent sites on 30 acres. It’s located on an active hay field between a railroad and the James River, meaning you can float, splash, and paddle the afternoons away. Nearby Shenandoah National Park offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring the park – just pay attention to which trails do or don’t allow dogs, and keep your companion on a leash while in the park.
Lobitos Creek – Half Moon Bay, CA
Have the space all to yourself at Lobitos Creek, a beautiful off-leash campground in San Mateo County. Up to 10 guests (including your pup) can enjoy this private RV or tent site. It’s located just four miles from scenic Highway 1 and its beaches, where your dog can run free and explore the sand and surf. The historic town of Half Moon Bay is just 20 minutes away, where you can find fresh-caught fish and local vegetables to cook over the campfire.
Secluded Waterfall Haven – Dillard, Georgia
Waterfalls? Mountains? It’s easy to see why this Hipcamp won third place for Georgia in 2023. The name says it all: Secluded Waterfall Haven offers a tranquil 4.5-acre sanctuary in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This campground has space for up to 55 guests, while still offering total seclusion — you, your dog, and your crew will have the space totally to yourselves. Explore the campground’s waterfalls, head out for a kayaking or hiking adventure, or visit the charming southern towns located within an easy drive.
Akitaaru Forest Camp — Bethany, OR
For the perfect blend of hike-in camping with a touch of glamping, head to Akitaaru Forest Camp. After a short walk in, you and your companion will arrive at a beautiful forest oasis complete with fairy lights, a large fire ring, hammock, swinging loveseat, and picnic table. This private campground has space for five to seven tents, but don’t be fooled by the private oasis vibes. Bethany is just a 30-minute drive from Portland, and even closer to 5,000-acre Forest Park, where you and your companion can spend your days hiking.
Beaver Creek Oasis — Rimrock, AZ
Alpacas? We’re so in. At Beaver Creek Oasis, you and your dog can choose sleeping in the on-site travel trailer, or pitch your tent under the trees of the mesquite bosques. Wherever you choose to stay, you can say hello to the friendly alpacas, who would be more than happy to enjoy some hand-fed grains. A creek flows gently through the property where you and your companion can cool off from the heat. Should you choose to venture into town, Sedona and Page Spring are a short drive away, as are plenty of hiking trails.
Bolin Knob Meadows — Morganton, NC
Choose from three different off-leash camping options at Bolin Knob Meadows. This 70-acre property is nestled in the mountains of North Carolina, near South Mountains State Park. You and your dog can sleep at one of three tent sites, each offering their own special touches like a creek or the best places to watch the sunrise and sunset. Enjoy views of Appalachian Mountain gems like Table Rock, Grandfather Mountain, and Mount Mitchell, with plenty of hiking options nearby.
Essential Camping Gear for Your Dog
Before you go, be sure to pack some must-haves for camping with your dog. The Dirtbag™ Bed offers an easy-to-clean, easy-to-transport sleeping option. It’s comfortable and still durable enough to handle grime and the other aftermath of adventures, and is easily hosed down after a camping trip.
If you’re going somewhere with colder temps, the Highlands™ Sleeping Bag will keep your dog cozy through the night. This lightweight, compressible sleeping bag is made of synthetic down and offers a half-length zipper for easy entry. The bag offers plenty of room for your dog while cutting down on extra space to keep it lightweight.
When it comes to feeding times at the campsite, look no further than the Basecamp™ Bowl. Made with food-grade stainless steel, it’s durable, food safe and dishwasher safe. Best of all, the sound-dampening technology softens the clang of kibble on metal for a quieter meal prep.
Got your perfect off-leash Hipcamp site all picked out? Got your gear? Let’s go camping!
