Summer is the perfect time for camping, and the experience is even better when you can bring your dog or cat along! Whether you’re looking to stay close to Austin, Texas for camping or willing to travel a bit further, there are plenty of fantastic pet-friendly campgrounds in the Austin metro area. As Austin’s premium pet sitters and dog walkers, we know the top options, along with tops to ensure a safe, fun camping trip with your pet.
PUBLIC PET-FRIENDLY CAMPGROUNDS NEAR AUSTIN
Did you know that pets are allowed in all Texas State parks? It’s true – your dog or cat can join you camping, hiking, and enjoying the great outdoor throughout the Austin area. Just be sure to follow the rules and regulations, which typically require pets to be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
PET-FRIENDLY CAMPGROUNDS WITHIN AN HOUR OF AUSTIN
PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK
Pedernales Falls State Park offers an array of activities for both you and your pup, making it a top choice for a pet-friendly getaway. Located just 30 miles west of Austin, this park is perfect for a quick escape. Here’s why it’s a great spot for you and your furry friend:
- Pet-Friendly Trails: With miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging terrain, your dog can enjoy a variety of landscapes. The Wolf Mountain Trail is a popular 7.5-mile loop that provides scenic views and a good workout for active dogs.
- Water Fun: The Pedernales River runs through the park, offering spots for your dog to splash and cool off. While dogs aren’t allowed in the swimming areas, they can enjoy the river’s edges and shallower spots.
- Camping Amenities: The park offers both primitive and developed camping sites. Developed sites include water and electricity, making it easier to care for your pet. Remember to keep your dog leashed at all times and clean up after them to maintain the park’s beauty.
- Wildlife: Be aware that the park is home to various wildlife, including deer and armadillos. Keeping your dog leashed will help prevent any unwanted encounters.
- Pet Waste Stations: The park provides pet waste stations throughout the pet-friendly campgrounds and trails, ensuring you have no excuse to leave any mess behind.
INKS LAKE STATE PARK
Inks Lake State Park, located about an hour northwest of Austin, is another excellent option for pet-friendly camping.
- Pet-Friendly Trails: The park features nine miles of hiking trails that welcome pets, including the popular Devil’s Waterhole Trail. This trail offers scenic views of rocky outcrops and calm water, perfect for a leisurely hike with your dog.
- Water Activities: While the designated swimming areas are off-limits to pets, your dog can enjoy the shoreline areas around the lake. The lake’s calm waters are ideal for a quick dip to cool off.
- Camping Facilities: Inks Lake offers both primitive and developed campsites. The developed sites have water and electrical hookups, making it easy to care for your pet during your stay. Always keep your dog leashed and clean up after them to maintain the park’s cleanliness.
- Wildlife Watching: The park is home to various wildlife, including deer and birds, providing a great opportunity for your dog to safely observe nature. Keeping your dog on a leash ensures their safety and prevents disturbances to the wildlife.
- Pet Amenities: The park has several pet waste stations and shaded picnic areas, ensuring your dog remains comfortable and well-cared for.
PET-FRIENDLY CAMPGROUNDS WITHIN AUSTIN CITY LIMITS
MCKINNEY FALLS STATE PARK
Even closer to home, McKinney Falls State Park is an ultra-convenient escape for pet owners residing in Austin. Here’s what makes this park ideal for a pet-friendly adventure:
- Accessible Trails: The park offers several trails, including the Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail, which is an easy, paved trail perfect for a leisurely walk with your dog. For more adventure, try the Homestead Trail, which features historical sites and diverse terrain.
- Water Access: Onion Creek provides multiple access points where your dog can wade and play. While the main swimming areas are off-limits to pets, there are plenty of spots along the creek for a quick dip.
- Camping Options: McKinney Falls has over 80 campsites, including those with full hook-ups and primitive sites. Each site is spacious, allowing your dog room to move around while still adhering to leash rules.
- Fishing: The park’s Tackler Loaner Program offers free rod rentals, making it easy to enjoy a relaxing day of fishing. While you fish, your dog can enjoy the sights and sounds of the water.
- Pet-Friendly Features: The park includes several pet waste stations and shaded areas to keep your dog comfortable during your visit.
EMMA LONG METROPOLITAN PARK
Emma Long Metropolitan Park is a large municipal park located within Austin, providing a convenient outdoor escape for you and your pet.
- Leash-Free Area: The park has a designated off-leash area along the shoreline, where your dog can run and play freely. This area allows your dog to enjoy the water and open spaces without the restriction of a leash.
- Camping Options: The park offers both primitive and developed campsites, with many sites located near the water. The developed sites include amenities like water and electrical hookups, making it easy to care for your pet during your stay.
- Trails and Hiking: Emma Long has several miles of trails that are perfect for hiking with your dog. The Turkey Creek Trail is a popular 2.8-mile off-leash trail that winds through the woods and along a creek, providing plenty of opportunities for your dog to explore.
- Water Access: The park’s location along Lake Austin means there are plenty of spots for your dog to swim and play in the water. The designated off-leash area makes it easy for your dog to cool off and enjoy the lake.
- Pet-Friendly Facilities: The park includes pet waste stations, shaded picnic areas, and open fields, ensuring your dog has plenty of space and amenities to enjoy their visit.
PRIVATE PET-FRIENDLY CAMPGROUNDS NEAR AUSTIN
Whittington Creek Campground (Cedar Creek)
Whittington Creek Campground in Cedar Creek is an excellent option for RV and tent camping, especially if you’re bringing your pet along.
- Off-Leash Dog Park: Whittington Creek features an enclosed dog park where your pup can run free and socialize with other dogs. This area provides a safe and controlled environment for your dog to burn off energy.
- Swimming Pool: There’s a swimming pool available for both humans and pets to cool off on hot Texas days. Your dog will appreciate a refreshing dip, especially during the summer months.
- Hiking Trails: The campground provides access to scenic hiking trails that you can explore with your dog. These trails vary in difficulty, so there’s something for every level of adventure.
- Pet Rules: Pets must be leashed when outside your campsite, and it’s important to clean up after your dog to maintain the pet-friendly campground’s cleanliness and safety. Pet waste stations are conveniently located throughout the pet-friendly campground.
Blazing Star Luxury RV Resort (San Marcos)
Located about an hour south of Austin, Blazing Star Luxury RV Resort offers a mix of pet-friendly cottages and RV sites surrounded by beautiful Hill Country scenery.
- Private Off-Leash Dog Park: Your dog will love the private off-leash dog park, which is equipped with agility equipment to keep your pup active and entertained.
- Nature Trails: The resort features nature trails that are perfect for exploring with your dog. These trails offer a great opportunity for your dog to sniff around and enjoy the natural surroundings.
- San Marcos River: The resort’s proximity to the San Marcos River provides easy access for swimming and kayaking. Your dog can enjoy splashing in the river or simply cooling off by the water.
- Agility Equipment Rentals: For active dogs, Blazing Star offers agility equipment rentals. This is a great way to keep your dog physically and mentally stimulated during your stay.
- Pet Rules: As with most private pet-friendly campgrounds near Austin, pets must be leashed unless in designated off-leash areas. Never leave your pet unattended outside your RV or tent to ensure their safety and the comfort of other guests.
Hill Country RV Resort (New Braunfels)
Hill Country RV Resort in New Braunfels, located about an hour south of Austin, offers a fantastic pet-friendly experience with various amenities for you and your furry friend.
- Dog Park: The resort features a fenced dog park where your dog can run off-leash and play. The park includes shaded areas and seating for pet owners.
- Walking Trails: Scenic walking trails around the resort are perfect for leashed walks with your dog, allowing you both to enjoy the beautiful Hill Country scenery.
- Pet-Friendly Cabins: The resort offers pet-friendly cabins and cottages, providing comfortable accommodations for you and your pet. These units come with pet-specific amenities like pet beds and bowls.
- Swimming Pools: While the resort has swimming pools for humans, pets can enjoy splashing around in designated pet play areas. Always keep your dog leashed around the pool area.
- Pet Rules: Pets must be leashed when outside the designated off-leash areas, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Pet waste stations are provided for convenience.
La Hacienda RV Resort & Cottages (Lake Travis)
Located near Lake Travis, La Hacienda RV Resort & Cottages is a beautiful spot for pet-friendly camping and outdoor activities.
- Dog Park: The resort includes a spacious, fenced dog park where your dog can run and play off-leash. This area is designed for both small and large dogs, with separate sections to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Nature Trails: The resort’s nature trails are ideal for leashed walks, offering stunning views of Lake Travis and the surrounding Hill Country. These trails provide plenty of opportunities for your dog to explore and enjoy the outdoors.
- Pet-Friendly Lodging: La Hacienda offers pet-friendly cottages and RV sites with modern amenities. The cottages are equipped with pet-friendly features, ensuring a comfortable stay for both you and your pet.
- Recreational Facilities: In addition to the dog park, the resort has recreational facilities like a swimming pool, hot tub, and fitness center. While pets aren’t allowed in these areas, there are plenty of outdoor spaces where they can enjoy their time.
- Pet Rules: As with other private campgrounds, pets must be leashed when outside the designated off-leash areas. Always clean up after your pet and be mindful of other guests.
TIPS FOR CAMPING WITH PETS
1. Pack supplies: food, water bowls, bed, toys, waste bags, leash, any medications.
2. Keep your dog leashed whenever outside your tent/RV unless in designated off-leash areas.
3. Never leave pets unattended – they can become anxious, bark excessively, or try to escape.
4. Check that flea/tick and vaccine protection is up-to-date before your trip.
5. Research vets near your campground location in case of emergency.
6. Store all food securely and keep control of your pet to avoid conflicts with wildlife.
7. Pack a doggie first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, tick remover, etc.
8. Build in plenty of potty/sniffing breaks during hikes by allowing time off-trail on a leash.
9. Pay attention to ensure your pets stays hydrated, especially in warmer weather.
10. Double check that your pet’s ID tags have your current information listed.
Camping and exploring the great outdoors is even more fun with your canine companion by your side! With a little preparation and pet-friendly accommodations, you’re all set for an amazing summer adventure. Do you have upcoming camping plans but still need pet care? Our elite pet sitters provide premium dog sitting, cat sitting, dog walking and more. Contact us to learn more!