The Camping Club

10 Tips for Being a Good Campground Neighbor

 Most campers drive for hours and plan far in advance for their trips to our beautiful parks and campgrounds. Some of the reasons for going camping are to get away from it all, and spend time with our families breathing the fresh air and taking in the natural surroundings. That is why it can be very disappointing to finally arrive at the campground only to have people at other campsites making your trip hard to enjoy. If we all follow these simple guidelines, everyone at the park should be able to have a great camping trip.

Tip #1: Do not walk through other campsites, even if it makes it easier to get to washrooms or other park locations. Walking through another person's campsite is very intrusive and many people will find this offensive.

Tip #2: Keep your pet on a leash at all times. It can be a nuisance to have other pets on your campsite when you are trying to relax. Even though you may not feel it is a big deal, not everyone wants your dog running through their campsite.

Tip #3: Pick up after your dog. Nothing spoils a walk more than stepping in dog doo--especially with bare feet. Bring a scoop or plastic bag to pick up and dispose of it properly. Special bags can be found at pet supply stores. Some camp stores carry them as well.

Seven More Tips

10 Dog-Friendly Campgrounds

Take your furry friend and pitch your tent at one of these pet-friendly parks out West.

San Francisco, North Petaluma:

Nestled near the Napa and Sonoma wineries, this spot is rated one of the top campgrounds in California. Only thirty miles from the Golden Gate Bridge, you and your dog are welcome in most of the Bay Area parks and trails.

Nine more places to camp with your dog.

2 Days in Lake Tahoe

Yes, Lake Tahoe is as pretty as the pictures suggest and the lakes are as blue as the bumper stickers boast. But don't just take my word for it--go see for yourself. With infinite places to stay and play near the big lagoon, here are a few recommendations to keep in mind when planning your trip.

Hikes in Lake Tahoe

Mt. Tallac: Take in all of Lake Tahoe from the top of Mount Tallac. With a 3,500-foot elevation gain in only four and a half miles, it's a tough one, but the panoramic view of the Sierras and surrounding lakes are an ample reward. The trail head is only one mile from the Fallen Leaf Campground and less than five miles from town.

Tip: Chipmunks on Mt. Tallac are ruthless. When you stop to refuel, avoid a picnic-style lunch.

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15 Popular Camping Destinations for Fall

Pitch your tent at one of these popular campgrounds across the U.S. and enjoy everything from fishing to fall foliage. From Pawtuckaway State Park in New Hampshire to the Ohlone Wilderness in California, these are some of the best places to enjoy autumn's crisp air and vibrant colors.

Is one of your favorite sites missing from the list? Feel free to share your own secret spots.