Explore MD

Lori and Dave Liba are among them. They say they never go camping without their dog, Canon.

“Animals love camping. I can't imagine not taking him,” Lori says. “They get to walk in the woods…and plenty of outdoor time.”

From the look of Canon, sprawled out and sound asleep in the shade of the campsite, he’s enjoying his time outdoors as much as his owners.

In Maryland, most state campgrounds allow pets in at least part of the park. Lori says she and Dave travel from Pittsburgh to camp because “Maryland is very dog-friendly.”

“There are a lot of states where you can't take dogs on the trails,” Dave agrees.

According to Missy Kelly, a customer service representative with the Maryland Parks Service, “We've had an increase in access for pets in parks. We try to have at least some access at most parks.”

The park service held a public-comment period to determine what pet owners wanted to see changed in the parks. In many cases, access for pets was improved in the day-use areas and waterways.

The reasons some areas are restricted vary, says Missy. Pets are not allowed in ecologically sensitive areas, she explains, because “they might disrupt plant life or animal life.” Areas with a high volume of people are also sometimes restricted.

Such is the case at Garrett County’s Swallow Falls State Park, where the Libas camp. Numerous cascading waterfalls attract thousands of visitors. Therefore, pets are not allowed in the day-use areas—where the falls are located—between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

For those furry friends who enjoy the water, dogs can swim from the shoreline at Deep Creek Lake State Park year round. And along the Chesapeake Bay, Point Lookout State Park has a beach dedicated just to pups and their owners.

However, swimming isn’t on the minds of Lori, Dave, and Canon during this particular vacation. They’re just here to enjoy Mother Nature.

Canon, a 2-year-old golden Lab—still a puppy by many people's standards—stays untied at the campsite. He’s too exhausted to run away, say the Libas, because of all the exercise he’s getting here in the park. (Pet owners should know that Maryland State Parks rules require dogs to be on a leash at all times unless they’re swimming or hunting.)

When camping in a private campground, be sure to check the rules before arriving. Some require dogs to be on a six-foot leash, and some ban particular breeds outright. And many require proof of rabies vaccinations.

Overall, it’s important to be prepared when taking your pooch camping.

“We always have a dog bag with us with treats and medicine,” Lori says, adding, “You have to bring the dog food in at night because of the [wild] animals.”

State park rules require owners to clean up after their pets, and excessive barking is forbidden between the “quiet hours” from 11 p.m.-7 a.m.  

And if it turns out your favorite state campground won’t allow you to bring your favorite four-legged friend along? Request to have certain parts of it opened to pets. If enough people make the request, says Missy, the park service just might compromise.

To find a pet-friendly state park near you, visit www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/pets.asp.

What to Know Before You Go

Determined to bring your pup along on your next outdoor adventure? Keep these things in mind before stuffing your backpack with dog biscuits:

•    Bring proof of rabies vaccination.

•    Be sure your dog has an ID tag or a microchip, in case you get separated.

•    Check if certain breeds are banned from your intended campground before you arrive. Banned breeds may include pit bulls, Dobermans, Rottweilers, Mastiffs, German shepherds, and Chows.

•    Make a checklist of what you’ll need, including dog food, bowls for food and water, medication, a dog bed/blanket, leash, and waste-disposal bags.

•    Know you dog. If he can't stay quiet through the night, you may find yourself kicked out of the campground.