Ultimate Dog Camping Gear To Go Camping With Dogs for Beginners

Are you ready to hit the great outdoors with your 4 legged best friend? Camping with dogs can be a wonderful and bonding experience, but it requires some preparation and planning. You want to make sure that your dog is comfortable, safe, and happy during your camping adventure. That's why having the right dog camping gear is essential.

From comfortable dog beds to waterproof jackets, portable water bottles to GPS tracking devices, there are many items that you can bring along on your camping trip to ensure that both you and your pup have an enjoyable time in nature. Whether you're planning a day trip or an overnight stay, having the right gear can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying your time in the wilderness with your four-legged companion. So let's dive into some of the must-have dog camping gear for any outdoor adventure! 

Dog Camping Gear Essentials

Bare Minimum List

  • Essential dog camping gear includes a cozy dog bed, sturdy leash and collar, portable water bottles, food supplies, and a first aid kit.
  • Clean-up supplies for responsible dog ownership in the great outdoors include biodegradable poop bags and a trowel for burying solid waste.
  • Responsible pet ownership includes respecting the environment and following Leave No Trace principles.

The Essentials List

1. Dog Tent or Shelter: A portable shelter that provides your dog with a comfortable and safe place to sleep.

2. Sleeping Bag or Pad: A comfortable and warm sleeping pad or bag to keep your dog cozy and comfortable.

3. Collapsible Bowls: Collapsible bowls are easy to pack and can be used for food and water.

4. Dog Leash: A sturdy leash to keep your dog safe and close by while camping.

5. Dog Backpack: A backpack designed to carry dog food, water, and other essentials.

6. First Aid Kit: A first aid kit with supplies for your dog's specific needs.

7. Tick and Flea Protection: Tick and flea collars or treatments to keep your dog safe from pests.

8. Paw Protection: Booties or paw wax to protect your dog's paws from rough terrain and hot surfaces.

9. Portable Water Filter: A portable water filter to ensure your dog has access to clean drinking water.

10. Reflective Gear: Reflective collars, vests, or leashes to keep your dog visible in low light situations.

The Importance of Comfortable Dog Beds for Camping

If you want your pup to sleep soundly on your camping trip, it's crucial to pack a cozy dog bed. Choosing the right bedding for your furry friend is essential for their comfort and well-being. Look for beds that provide ample cushioning and support, as well as insulation to keep them warm during chilly nights.

Ensuring warmth and comfort is especially important if you plan on camping in colder temperatures. Consider purchasing a bed with built-in heating elements or bringing along extra blankets to layer up. It's also vital to choose a bed that fits properly in your tent or camper, providing enough space for both you and your furry companion.

Proper sizing and support are key factors when selecting the best dog bed for camping. A too-small bed can leave your pup feeling cramped and uncomfortable, while a too-large one may not provide enough support for their joints. Look for models that cater specifically to dogs of different sizes and breeds, which offer ample space combined with ergonomic design features.

As you prepare for outdoor adventures with your furry friend, don't forget about safety! Up next, we'll discuss leashes and collars designed to keep dogs secure during hikes, walks, and other outdoor activities.

Leashes and Collars for Safety During Outdoor Adventures

You absolutely need to have a sturdy leash and collar when you're out exploring the great outdoors with your furry companion. Here are three reasons why comfortable harnesses, reflective gear, and training collars are essential for outdoor adventures and camping with your dog:

1. Comfortable harnesses: Traditional collars can put unnecessary pressure on your dog's neck, especially if they pull or lunge while on a walk. A comfortable harness distributes pressure more evenly across their chest and back, reducing the risk of injury.

2. Reflective gear: When you're hiking or camping in remote areas, it's important to keep your dog visible at all times. Reflective gear such as collars, leashes, and vests will help drivers or other hikers spot them from afar.

3. Training collars: Even well-behaved dogs may get excited when they encounter new sights and smells in the great outdoors. Training collars can help reinforce good behavior by emitting a gentle vibration or tone that catches their attention without causing harm.

Don't overlook the importance of investing in quality leashes and collars before embarking on any outdoor adventure with your furry friend! Up next we'll talk about waterproof and durable dog jackets for inclement weather - because even our four-legged friends need protection from the elements sometimes.

Waterproof and Durable Dog Jackets for Inclement Weather

When it starts pouring on your outdoor adventure, don't let the weather dampen your spirits - keep your furry friend warm and dry with a waterproof and durable jacket. The best dog jackets for camping in inclement weather are made with breathable materials to prevent overheating and reflective accents to enhance visibility during low-light conditions. Additionally, these jackets come in multiple sizes to ensure a perfect fit for dogs of all breeds.

When selecting a dog jacket for camping, it's important to consider whether you need water-resistant or waterproof material. Water-resistant jackets will repel light rain and moisture but won't hold up against heavy downpours. On the other hand, waterproof jackets are designed to keep dogs completely dry during extended periods of rain or snow. Be sure to choose the type of jacket that matches your outdoor activities.

Layering is another option when it comes to keeping your dog comfortable and protected against winter weather while camping. Pairing a dog jacket with other gear like booties or sweaters can create an ultimate barrier from harsh elements. Ensure that each layer fits properly without restricting movement so that your canine companion can move freely while staying warm and dry.

To make sure that your furry friend stays hydrated on long hikes or camping trips, portable bowls and water bottles for dogs are essential items to pack next. Keep reading about how these products can make all the difference in keeping your pup healthy and happy during outdoor adventures!

Portable Dog Bowls and Water Bottles for Hydration

Quench your pup's thirst on the go with these handy hydration accessories - they're a lifesaver for any outdoor adventure! Portable dog bowls and collapsible water bottles are essential items to pack when camping with your furry friend. These hydration accessories are lightweight, easy to carry, and take up minimal space in your backpack.

A portable dog bowl is an excellent option for providing your pup with food and water while you're out on the trails. They come in various sizes and materials such as silicone or nylon, making them durable and easy to clean. Collapsible water bottles are also a fantastic choice because they can be compressed into a small size when not in use. It's crucial to ensure that your furry friend stays hydrated during outdoor activities, especially during the hotter months of the year.

Hydration accessories should always be at the top of your list when packing for a camping trip with your furry companion. Whether it's a portable dog bowl or a collapsible water bottle, they're essential items that will keep your pup healthy and happy throughout your adventure. Next up, we'll talk about first aid kits for emergencies in the wilderness – another crucial item to have on hand when exploring the great outdoors with your furry buddy!

First Aid Kits for Emergencies in the Wilderness

A must-have for any outdoor excursion is a first aid kit, which can be a lifesaver in case of emergencies. When camping with dogs, it's essential to have a well-stocked wilderness first aid kit that includes items specifically designed for pets. Here are three things to include in your dog-friendly first aid kit:

  • Pet-specific medications: Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies or other chronic conditions that require medication. Make sure to pack any necessary prescriptions and over-the-counter medications recommended by your vet.
  • Tick removal tool: Ticks are common in wooded areas and can carry diseases like Lyme disease. A tick removal tool is an essential item to have on hand in case your dog gets bitten.
  • Emergency blanket: In the event of an injury or shock, keeping your dog warm and comfortable is crucial. An emergency blanket will help regulate their body temperature and prevent hypothermia.

Being prepared with a well-stocked wilderness first aid kit is critical for outdoor safety when camping with dogs. It's also important to familiarize yourself with basic emergency response techniques before heading out into the wilderness.

As much as we would love our outdoor excursions to go off without a hitch, emergencies can happen at any time. By packing a comprehensive wilderness first aid kit for you and your furry friend, you'll be better equipped to handle any situation that may arise during your trip. Next up, let's talk about how to keep those pesky insects at bay with dog-friendly insect repellent!

Dog-Friendly Insect Repellent to Prevent Bites and Stings

After ensuring that you have a first aid kit for emergencies during your camping trip, it's time to think about keeping your dog safe from insect bites and stings. Natural options for insect repellent are becoming more popular, especially among pet owners who want to avoid using harsh chemicals on their furry friends. Do some research to find out which natural ingredients are effective in repelling insects and which ones are safe for dogs.

When selecting a dog-friendly insect repellent, consider the application method. Some sprays can be too strong or difficult to apply evenly on fur. You may also want to test a small amount of the repellent on your dog before using it extensively, just in case they have an allergic reaction. Knowing how often to reapply the product is also important, as some natural options may need more frequent application than chemical-based products.

Preventing tick bites is another concern when camping with dogs. Ticks can carry diseases that affect both humans and pets alike, so taking preventative measures is crucial. Tips and tricks like checking your dog thoroughly for ticks after every walk or hike can help reduce the risk of disease transmission. Additionally, alternative solutions like homemade insect repellents made from essential oils can be effective in repelling ticks without exposing your pet to harmful chemicals.

Toys and treats can keep your dog entertained on the trail while you're setting up camp or preparing meals.

Toys and Treats to Keep Your Dog Entertained on the Trail

Don't forget to pack some fun toys and tasty treats to keep your furry companion entertained and happy while exploring the great outdoors! Chew toys are a great option for dogs who love to gnaw on things, especially during downtime at camp. There are many durable chew toys available that can stand up to even the most aggressive chewers. Puzzle toys are another way to keep your dog's mind engaged while camping. These types of toys require your pup to work out how to get a treat or toy out of a container, keeping them occupied for longer stretches of time.

Training treats are an essential item for any dog owner going camping with their pet. Not only do they reward good behavior, but they also help you reinforce good habits in new environments. Choose treats that are small and easy to carry, as well as ones that won't spoil quickly in warmer temperatures. Freeze-dried meat snacks or dehydrated fruits make excellent options for training rewards while camping.

Remember that packing toys and treats is not just about keeping your dog entertained; it's also about providing comfort in unfamiliar surroundings. Bringing along familiar items from home can help ease anxiety and stress for dogs who may be unsure about their new surroundings. So don't forget to pack plenty of playthings when heading into the wilderness with your four-legged friend!

As you prepare for your adventure into the great outdoors with your furry companion, consider investing in a GPS tracking device for peace of mind. Knowing where your dog is at all times can give you the freedom to let them explore while still keeping tabs on their whereabouts. With this technology, you'll never have to worry about losing track of your pup again!

GPS Tracking Devices for Peace of Mind

Investing in a GPS tracking device can provide peace of mind while exploring the great outdoors with your furry companion. You never know when your dog might run off or get lost, and a GPS tracker can help you quickly locate them. There are many benefits to using a GPS tracking device, such as improved safety and security for your pet.

When it comes to GPS tracking devices for dogs, there are several options available on the market. Some popular devices include the Whistle Go Explore and the Garmin Astro 430. These devices offer real-time location tracking, activity monitoring, and even temperature alerts. It's important to consider factors like battery life, range, and durability when choosing a device that suits your needs.

While GPS tracking devices can provide peace of mind while camping with your dog, it's still important to take safety precautions. Always make sure your dog has proper identification tags on their collar and keep them leashed when necessary. Additionally, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the area you'll be camping in beforehand so you're aware of any potential hazards or areas where your dog could wander off.

Now that you have peace of mind knowing that you have a reliable way to track your furry friend while out in nature, let's talk about making sure they're comfortable during overnight trips with dog-friendly tents and sleeping bags!

Dog-Friendly Tents and Sleeping Bags for Overnight Camping

Make sure you and your furry companion have a comfortable place to rest at night while exploring the great outdoors with these dog-friendly tents and sleeping bags. Choosing the right camping gear for your dog is crucial in ensuring that both of you enjoy your adventure. It's essential to pick a tent that is spacious enough for your pet to move around comfortably, but also easy to set up and pack away.

When it comes to choosing between dog tents vs human tents, consider the size of your furry friend. Dog-specific tents are designed with extra ventilation and durability, making them perfect for outdoor use. They come in different sizes, so make sure you choose one that fits your pooch comfortably. However, if you prefer using a human tent, ensure it has enough space for both you and your dog without compromising on comfort.

Sleeping bags are also an essential part of any camping trip, even for dogs! Sleeping bags designed for humans don't always work well for pets as they can be too restrictive or may not provide enough insulation during colder nights. Look out for sleeping bags made specifically for dogs by size - small, medium or large - to ensure maximum comfort throughout the night. If it's your pet's first time camping gear introduction, let them sniff around their new space before settling in.

As important as choosing the right gear is introducing it properly to ensure that both you and your furry friend feel comfortable using it. Before heading out camping with your pet, introduce them slowly to their new items such as sleeping bags or tents so they can familiarize themselves with what will be expected of them when spending nights under the stars alongside their owners.

Now that you know how to select the best camping gear for your dog let's talk about another critical aspect responsible pet ownership: clean-up supplies in nature!

Clean-Up Supplies for Responsible Dog Ownership in the Great Outdoors

Now that you've got your dog-friendly tent and sleeping bag, it's time to think about responsible dog ownership in the great outdoors. As much as we love our furry companions, they can leave a mess behind if not properly managed. That's why it's important to pack clean-up supplies when camping with dogs.

First on the list is dog waste management. You'll want to bring biodegradable poop bags and a trowel for burying solid waste at least 200 feet away from water sources or campsites. It's also important to follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out any used bags.

Secondly, consider paw protection for your pup. Sharp rocks, hot pavement, and cold terrain can all be tough on their paws. Booties or paw wax can help protect sensitive paw pads from injury or discomfort.

Lastly, training aids such as long leads or tie-outs can help keep your dog close by while giving them some freedom to explore without wandering too far away from camp. This will give you peace of mind knowing they are safe while allowing them some off-leash time in a controlled environment.

With these important gear items in tow, you'll be well-equipped for a successful camping trip with your furry friend. Remember that being a responsible pet owner means taking care of their needs and respecting the natural environment around us. Happy trails!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any restrictions on camping with dogs in certain areas?

Do you know if the location you plan to camp allows dogs? Check online for dog-friendly camping locations and leash laws. Research hiking trails that welcome dogs, and pack accordingly with dog camping gear.

How can I prepare my dog for camping and outdoor activities?

Before heading out with your dog, ensure they are well trained for outdoor activities. Pack dog camping essentials like a leash, food and water bowls, and a canine first aid kit. With preparation, you can enjoy the freedom of the great outdoors together.

What should I do if my dog gets injured on a camping trip?

"Remember, accidents happen. Your priority is to assess the injury and act quickly. Use your first aid kit and emergency plan while contacting your veterinarian for guidance. Stay calm, be prepared, and keep your furry friend safe." 'With your quick and efficient response, you can prevent the situation from worsening and ensure that your pet receives the appropriate medical attention.'

What are some tips for keeping my dog safe from wildlife while camping?

When camping with your furry friend, outdoor training is key to keeping them safe from wildlife. Protective gear can also help, but leash training is the best defense against unexpected encounters. Stay alert and enjoy the freedom of the outdoors!

How do I properly dispose of waste when camping with my dog?

When camping with your dog, it's important to properly dispose of waste. Did you know that a single plastic bag can take up to 1,000 years to decompose? Opt for eco-friendly options like biodegradable disposal bags or products instead.

Conclusion

Congratulations on making the decision to take your furry friend camping! With the right gear, you and your dog can have a safe and enjoyable adventure in the great outdoors. Remember, comfort is key when it comes to camping with dogs. Make sure you bring along a comfortable bed for your pup to rest on after a long day of hiking.

Safety should also be a top priority. Keep your dog on a leash at all times and make sure they have proper identification in case they get lost. Don't forget essentials like waterproof jackets, portable bowls for hydration, and first aid kits for emergencies. And of course, don't forget toys and treats to keep your furry friend entertained!

By taking the time to properly prepare for your camping trip with your dog, you'll create lasting memories that you both will cherish forever. So pack up that tent, grab some snacks and hit the trails - adventure awaits!

Q: What is dog camping?

A: Dog camping is when you go camping or hiking with your dog.

Q: What camping gear do I need to bring for my dog?

A: You will need a dog camping bed, dog harness, approach dog pack, dog first aid kit, dog poop bags, and dog bowl.

Q: What is Ruffwear?

A: Ruffwear is a company specializing in making dog gear for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and backpacking.

Q: What is the best camping gear for dogs?

A: The best camping gear for dogs includes Ruffwear's highlands dog sleeping bag, highlands dog pad, approach dog pack, and grip trex boots.

Q: Why do I need a harness for my dog?

A: A harness ensures your dog's safety and comfort during outdoor activities. It also prevents your dog from pulling on a leash and causing injury.

Q: Can I bring my dog camping at any campground?

A: Not all campgrounds allow pets, so make sure to check with the campground before you book your trip.

Q: How can I ensure my dog has the best life while camping?

A: You can give your dog the best camping experience by providing everything they need, including the right gear, food, water, and shelter. Make sure to also take your dog's safety into consideration.

Q: What should I do if my dog gets injured while camping?

A: Make sure to bring a dog first aid kit and consult with a veterinarian if your dog gets injured or shows signs of illness.

Q: How do I make sure my dog stays warm in the tent?

A: You can provide your dog with a Ruffwear highlands dog sleeping bag and highlands dog pad inside the tent.

Q: Can I go camping with my dog even if I'm a beginner?

A: Yes, you can go camping with your dog even if you're a beginner. Just make sure to bring the right gear and plan accordingly.

Gear is only part of the prep. For a full walkthrough of what to expect on the trip itself, here is a complete guide to camping with dogs.

If you are planning a camping trip in Georgia, here is a guide to dog-friendly hiking trails across the state to help you plan your routes.

If you want to take your dog on the water too, start with this overview of what to consider before kayaking with your dog.

12 Waterfalls Near Dahlonega Georgia

12 Waterfalls Near Dahlonega Georgia

North Georgia has over 100 waterfalls, and a good chunk of them are within 25 miles of Dahlonega. These are the ones on public land that you can actually get to. A heads up: mountain roads make everything take longer than the map suggests, and water levels make a real difference in what you see when you get there.

If you are planning a trip out here, waterfalls are just one part of the plan. I covered the full picture in things to do in Dahlonega, Georgia.

Cane Creek Falls

Cane Creek Falls is 2.9 miles from Dahlonega Square and is located on private property at Camp Glisson, but is open to the public only when the camp is not in session. At the entrance gate, there are signs that tell the public when it is closed.

Cane Creek Falls eventually falls in to the Chestatee River, which provides a good outing for kayaking, tubing or canoeing. This waterfall has a viewing platform at the top.

The Chestatee River is worth a paddle if you have time. Here is what that float is actually like.

Clay Creek Falls

Clay Creek Falls is located on private property 2.9 miles away, but is viewable from the road.

There is not a place to park to observe the falls on foot, but it is very close to the road and well worth a drive by to see it, especially when the water is at higher levels.


Black Falls

Black Falls sits inside Camp Frank D. Merrill, an active Army Ranger training facility. It's one of the taller falls in this guide, but access depends on the day. If the gate is open, you can go in and take a look. If it's not: don't sneak onto the property. A wooden gate across the creek makes for a good photo if you do get in.


Montgomery Creek Falls

Montgomery Creek Falls is an isolated fall located in the Chattahoochee National Forest. There are mountain bike trails nearby, so be on the lookout. It is about half a mile to get there on an old logging road. It is just over 11 miles from Dahlonega.


Dicks Creek Falls

16 miles from Dahlonega Square, Dicks Creek Falls is really a couple of waterfalls located on Dicks Creek in the Chattahoochee National Forest.

It is is a very popular swimming hole for the locals and also provides a photo opportunity while taking a break. The hike is almost 1.25 miles round trip.

DeSoto Falls

18 miles from Dahlonega, DeSoto Falls consists of an upper falls and lower falls. The upper falls is a .75 mile hike up the creek with the lower falls .25 mile downstream. The total drop of all the falls is 480 feet.

Camping is also available and there is a restroom.

Long Creek Falls

At 50 feet tall, Long Creek Falls is another waterfall with a large pool at the bottom that is used as a swimming hole. The trail to Long Creek Falls is almost 2 miles round trip on the Appalachian Trail and Benton MacKaye Trail offers a scenic view.


Helton Creek Falls

Helton Creek Falls has one of the most spectacular falls and is 25 miles from Dahlonega and is also close to Blairsville, GA. Like many others, it is a double waterfall. Helton Creek Falls has an observation deck between the upper and lower falls.

The trail itself is less than a quarter of a mile to get there. Unfortunately as of May 2022, this trail is closed due to needed repairs.


Dukes Creek Falls

From the parking lot the 1.25 mile trail goes town to observation deck at the foot of the 150 foot waterfall. There is an observation deck that is wheelchair accessible and has parking available for 30 vehicles. It is about 24 miles from Dahlonega.

This area has a stunning view of Mt. Yonah, which is a popular mountain for hiking and climbing. Sometimes the Army Rangers can be seen here during their training.


Raven Cliff Falls

Raven Cliff Falls is one of the most popular hikes in the area. It's in the Chattahoochee National Forest but is not on the Appalachian Trail. The trail to the falls is 2.5 miles one way from the parking lot. Raven Cliff Falls is a triple fall totaling 100 feet. The trail does have water crossings.

It is about 25 miles from Dahlonega, GA, but is well worth the drive for a longer hike. Other cities nearby are Helen, GA and Blairsville, GA.

Amicalola Falls, GA

Amicalola Falls is the highest waterfall east of the Mississippi River at 729 feet high and is roughly 19 miles from Dahlonega. There is an entrance fee and the Appalachian trail starts here.

You can park at the bottom for a view up the falls or you can drive to the top of the falls to get a good view of the park. There is a new viewing deck that can be reached by driving to the middle of the falls. Along the falls, there is a metal staircase that goes from the bottom to the top of the falls. Many also choose to hike from the bottom as well.

Out of these waterfalls, I have only been to one, but many times - Amicalola Falls. If you choose to take the stairs, do know that there are many stairs. 604stairs to be exact. If you bring your dog, be aware that they are metal. If I would take mine, I would make sure to bring his shoes.

If hiking is not the only thing on your agenda, Dahlonega also has a surprisingly good wine scene. Here is a full breakdown of the wineries and tasting rooms in the area.

If you are bringing your dog, I put together a dedicated guide to dog-friendly trails with waterfalls in North Georgia.

I plan itineraries the same way I approach marketing campaigns: research everything, rank the options, have a contingency. If you want that kind of attention applied to your business, here is what I do.

Several of these falls are accessible on dog-friendly trails. For trail-specific details on leash rules and conditions, see the full guide to dog-friendly hiking trails in Georgia.

Kayaking Lake Acworth

Kayaking Lake Acworth

This is another weekday outing, the day after Stone Mountain. This kayak trip was planned a few weeks ago, but canceled because of storms that evening.

At the start there was a small storm that passed over us. We waited it out and it prevented us going up one of the creeks that feed into Lake Acworth.

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On the other side of the tunnel, it seems like a different place. At the end, it was alive with wildlife. A fellow kayaker that was in the front of the group said there were a few deer that scurried away when they were spotted.

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Blue Heron - Lake Acworth
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Sam soaking up the sun

If you want another Georgia kayaking option, the Chestatee River near Dahlonega is a beginner-friendly paddle worth knowing about.

If you are thinking about bringing your dog on the water, here is what to know before you go.

More trips are in the adventure section.

Between paddles I work in digital marketing and eCommerce. Here is that work.

Stone Mountain, Ga

Stone Mountain, Ga

Sometimes it's good to go during the week instead of waiting till the weekend.

I got invited to Stone Mountain yesterday after work. I met up with everybody and I was actually on time this time, go me. Before I went I was undecided if I wanted to take Sam with me or not. I ended up taking him with me. He was such a sport the entire way up.

Before I went, I got an annual pass online. I’ll have to make it a point to go kayaking there. I went with my HOE Adventure Group. HOE stands for Happiness Over Everything and not the ho ho.

I was a member for a while, but this was my first event with them. I don't consider the trip Kayaking to Florida the first, even though it technically was, as it was a collab event between 2 groups.

Stone Mountain 7 Coffee with cathy

When I pulled into my parking space, I knew exactly where we would meet because there’s a big group of about 20 at the time when I pulled up. I think there were about 30 to 35 of us that went so it made it easy to spot the group. 

Stone Mountain GA 8 coffee with cathy

Stormy started the group and also created the event. At her events, she does a friendship ring where everyone introduces themselves. I like the concept but it took quite a while with so many people.

On the trail up, someone suggested taking the service road up instead of the regular trail. It was much nicer on my knees, otherwise you’re stepping over rocks and bouldering a lot. 

Stone Mountain 6 Coffee with cathy

I haven’t been here in years, probably more than a decade.

It wasn’t really challenging this time around. Well one because of the service road and two Sam was not having the heat but we trekked it up to the top, one step at a time.

Of course the the dreaded top.

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This is my initial thought and face on it, but it's right at the end.

Stone Mountain 5 Coffee with cathy

Either way, one foot in front of the other and your there.

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I’m glad I did go. I’ve been wanting to get more involved in summer hiking which I typically just do when it’s cooler. I consider this one of the first ones since it was in the mid 90s today and I also wanted to see a sunset from Stone Mountain. Going to the three granite rock mountains is on my list of things that I wanted to do, Stone Mountain, Arabia Mountain and Panola Mountain. 

We were wanting to see the strawberry moon when it came up but it was just too cloudy. But we did manage to see some fireworks. It wasn’t a show at all, I think they’re just doing some practice rounds. I know one thing it was sure as hell easier going down then was going back up.

I’ll upload some pics when my phone dries. It’s almost dead and I can’t charge it, since it got a little wet when I went kayaking today.

So that was the impromptu weekday fun adventures and tomorrow is or actually later today is my kayaking trip. A kayak jaunt really to Lake Acworth. It was supposed to be a few weeks ago but it was canceled due to weather. This one I’m definitely taking Sam on, and I did. 

This kayaking trip was much better organized than the trip to Florida. There were about 43 or so yess’s on going. Not everyone showed up but it was still a good size crew. We were out on the lake for a little bit, but some clouds and lightning came through. We pulled back and waited it out before heading out again. It was very peaceful.

I went back to Stone Mountain for the night views too. Here is what that looks like after dark.

For more Georgia spots worth visiting, the full Georgia adventures section has day trips and destinations across the state.

More trips are in the adventure section.

Getting out is how I decompress between work projects. I work in digital marketing and eCommerce. Here is what that work looks like.

Chestatee River Kayaking

Chestatee River Kayaking

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dTeEWe3rb6g

My Trip Down the Chestatee River Details

Over the weekend, we camped out near Helen, GA.

We launched our kayaks at Appalachian Outfitters in Dahlonega, GA for a six mile section of the river. I have a sit-on kayak and Chuck has a sit-in kayak. (He had gone a few weekends before me with some other friends. Even earlier we made a weekend trip to the Blue Springs in Marianna, Florida.) There were a few on paddle boards and other kayakers that were there to fish.

Our trip on the water was about a 2 1/2 hour trip. The waters weren't bad and it's a good one for beginner kayakers. Just like anywhere else, you can tip over but the water is not deep as you can stand in most places.

Big Bend Beach is roughly at the halfway point and is a good spot to grab a bite. We didn’t stop, but there were some fellow river rats sunning and having lunch. Towards the end are the three rapids, YeeHaw, Bass in the Boat, and Last But Not Least.

The takeout is after the last rapids on the left. There’s a concrete area with steps to take yourself and gear back to your vehicle or shuttle if you used an outfitter.

Canoe, Kayak and Tubing Trips Down the Chestatee River near Dahlonega

The Chestatee River is about a 2 hour drive from Atlanta, GA and having an enjoyable time can be a good day trip or a weekend getaway in the mountains of North Georgia.

There are several outfitters that you can use to go down the Chestatee River. But you don't have to use these outfitters if you have your own.

Chestatee River Adventures

The Chestatee River Adventures offers single and tandem kayak rentals and tube trips for rent. You can make your reservation online on their website, www.chestateeriveradventures.com

Appalachian Outfitters

Appalachian Outfitters is located nearby and they have tube, kayak, and canoe rentals for your river adventure. Book online with them at www.canoegeorgia.com.

The Chestatee is a solid day trip or weekend getaway from Atlanta. Easy enough for beginners, scenic, and worth the drive.

Between river days I work in eCommerce marketing and SEO. If your business needs someone who knows how to build strategy from scratch and actually execute it, here is a look at the work.