I have spent years exploring the winding roads of Europe with my loyal dogs by my side. My latest journey took me to the heart of the Balkans. Bulgaria is a land of massive mountains and golden sands. It is truly a hidden gem for people who love the outdoors. I found that The best 15 campings dog friendly in Bulgaria (2026) offer more than just a place to park. They offer a real sense of freedom. A true paradise. Clean water. Happy dogs.
Bulgaria has become one of the most attractive camping destinations for visitors from all over Europe. The hospitality and the local cuisine are excellent. You will find many new campsites that offer modern facilities for international guests. However, you must prepare for your trip if you want to bring your furry friends along.
Rules for Your Furry Travel Buddies
First of all, you must know the rules for bringing a pet into the country. Your dog needs a working microchip. It should follow ISO standards 11784 or 11785. Your veterinarian must scan this chip before giving any shots. Additionally, your dog needs a valid rabies vaccination. You must wait at least 21 days after the primary shot before you travel.
You will also need a pet passport or an EU health certificate. If you are coming from a non-EU country like the United States, a USDA-accredited veterinarian must issue the certificate. The non-commercial certificate is valid for 30 days once it is issued. It must be endorsed within 10 days of your arrival in the EU. Plus, if your pet is under 3 months old, it must have lived indoors since birth. Animals are examined by personnel when they arrive at the border.
Later, when you enter Bulgaria from a non-EU country, you must go through a specific border crossing. I once entered from Greece through the Thermes-Zlatograd border. The roads were narrow and bumpy, but the views were very beautiful. The officials checked our documents and searched our van in just 20 minutes. It was a fast and easy process.
What You Should Know About Camping in Bulgaria
Bulgaria is not always as well-developed as other European spots. It is still a real adventure. Many operators have gradually modernized their facilities in recent years. However, some sites still have older sanitary buildings. You should also be ready for the road conditions. Main roads are generally good, but side roads often have potholes and bumps. Therefore, you should allow more time for your journeys than the navigation device says. I suggest that you only drive during the day.
Wild camping is officially prohibited in the country. It is often tolerated away from big cities and tourist areas. However, you should never try it in national parks or nature reserves. You could face a heavy fine of up to 1,000 Euros if you are caught there. It is much safer to park at an official campsite to avoid crime or break-ins.
Similarly, you must follow the rules about fire. Lighting a fire is absolutely forbidden in many campsites and on the beaches. This rule exists to protect the forests and nature. You should use specially built barbecue areas for your summer cooking instead. Also, you must keep the speed under 5 kilometers per hour inside many camps. Do not use your car horn or bright light signals unless it is an emergency.
The Best 15 Campings Dog Friendly in Bulgaria (2026)
I have visited many spots across this beautiful country. Here is my personal list of the top places for you and your dog.
1. Camping Veliko Tarnovo
This site is located in the village of Dragizhevo. I found it has a 10/10 superb rating. It is surrounded by peaceful countryside and offers a swimming pool with great views of the mountains. The facilities are clean and modern. Additionally, there are bars and shops within a 20-minute drive. It is one of the best camping places in bulgaria. A top choice for hikers.
2. 7 Lakes Camping
If you want to visit the Seven Rila Lakes, this is the place to go. It is situated on the edge of Sapareva Banya. The site is spacious and very family-friendly. On top of that, it has a thermal pools complex, a sauna, and a playground. It is about a 20-minute drive to the cable car for the lakes. My dogs loved the fresh mountain air here.
3. Eco Camping Batak
This nature campsite is simple but very clean. It sits right on Lake Batak in the Western Rhodope mountains. You get great views of a small island in the lake from your pitch. You can hire kayaks and boats to explore the water. The campsite offers internet and is very close to the beach. It is a wonderful spot for peace and quiet.
4. Camping Kapinovski Monastery
This holiday complex offers Western European standards. It is within walking distance of the Kapinovski and Plakovsky monasteries. It has a 9/10 superb rating. You will find well-kept sanitary facilities and a swimming pool. Dogs are allowed and the restaurant on site is very good. It is a great place to combine culture and nature.
5. Camping Kromidovo
I love this small, eco-friendly site near the border with Greece. Pets are free here, which is a big plus. It is located in the Struma Valley, surrounded by vineyards and mountains. The site uses solar hot water and has composting toilets. There are many local wineries nearby for tours and tastings. Friendly hosts. Quiet nights.
6. Camping Koukery
This site has a 10/10 superb rating from other campers. It is located in a quiet area with very nice views. The sanitary facilities are very good and the operators are very helpful. They even offer a bread service and have a small shop on site. It is a very beautiful place for people who want to escape the crowds.
7. Alliance Glamping & Hotel
This is a well-maintained site in Plovdiv. It offers views of the Rhodope mountains. There is a swimming pool, a beach, and even a spa on site. It is a 10-minute drive to the city center and 20 minutes to a waterpark. The lots are large and partially shaded. Dogs are welcome to join the fun.
8. Camping Verila
This site is optimal for visiting the Seven Rila Lakes. It is a small area with a restaurant and a bread service. The pitches are arranged in a circle at the edge of the area. It has a 10/10 superb rating. Though it has little shade, it is a very convenient spot for hikers.
9. Camping Zora
This peaceful site is just a five-minute walk from the sandy beaches of the Black Sea. It is also very close to the town center of Obzor. The site has a pool, a restaurant, and bike hire. Dogs are allowed in the area. It is clean and everything you need is available. Great for a beach holiday.
10. Krapec Beach
This lively family site is about 2 km north of the village of Krapets. It is located on the northern part of the Black Sea coast. Pets are welcome in open areas like tents and campers. However, they are not allowed in the bungalows. The beach is wild and reaches over 7 kilometers long. It is part of a protected area with beautiful dunes.
11. Thermal Camping Velingrad
This serene site is surrounded by a forest. It offers thermal spa facilities, including indoor and outdoor pools. You can enjoy wellness treatments and saunas while your dog relaxes in the forest air. It is a five-minute drive to central Velingrad. The site is highly rated for its comfort and hygiene.
12. Alexandrovo Camping
This is a peaceful, family-friendly site with views of the Bulgarian countryside. It is a top stopover for people traveling toward Greece or Turkey. The area is spectacular for hikers and bikers. It has an outstanding 5.0 rating from guests. Dogs are allowed and they will love the open space.
13. Camping Narva
This is a newly opened gem on the Northern Black Sea coast. It is a 10-minute walk from the unspoiled Ezerets Beach. The campground is family-friendly and pet-friendly. You will find modern amenities and plenty of shade for your caravan or tent. It is also close to attractions like the Shabla Lighthouse.
14. Blue Gate Camping Farm
This is a natural, small campsite on a family farm. It is located in Tsatsarovtsi, under an hour from Sofia. Dogs are very welcome here. There is a swimming pool, a forest playground, and a trampoline on site. It is a very charming place with fluent English-speaking hosts. A real farm experience.
15. Saint George Resort
This resort is located near the beach and has a swimming pool. It has a pleasant rating and allows dogs. It is a good option if you want to be close to the water on the Black Sea coast. While it is more basic than some other spots, it still offers the essential services for a camping trip.
Adventures in the Rhodope Mountains
I took my dogs, Abigail and Charlie, to the Rhodope Mountains in the autumn. These mountains cover about 15% of the country. We explored traditional villages and new hiking routes. One of my favorite stops was Smilyan, a charming village famous for its beans. I loved walking by the Arda River. My dog Charlie would jump into the water to swim, while Abigail preferred to stay dry.
We also visited Mogilitsa, which is known for its old stone houses. The views from the observation platform were very beautiful. We took a stroll to the Agushevi Konaktsi fortress, which is the largest feudal complex from its time. The dogs waited in the courtyard while we looked at the intricate woodcarvings inside.
Later, we tried the Waterfall Canyon Trail west of Smolyan. This trail follows the river and several waterfalls. Some of the falls are very high, like the Orpheus Waterfall at 68 meters. I suggest you wear good boots because the trail is rough. We had to cut our walk short because a storm was coming. Dark clouds swirled around the peaks and we heard thunder. We made it back to our van just as the rain started. It was a close call.
Does Outdoor World Allow Dogs?
You might ask, does outdoor world allow dogs in all these natural places? In Bulgaria, the answer is mostly yes. You can take your dog to many national parks and forests. However, you must keep them under control. In nature reserves like Soskovcheto, you must keep your dogs on a lead to protect the wildlife. Plus, you must always clean up after them to keep the environment crystal clear.
Most public beaches do not allow dogs during the peak season from June to September. This is especially true in big resorts like Sunny Beach. However, there are many “wild” beaches where dogs are welcome. You can take your dog to places like Drivers Beach or Gradina Beach. These spots are often secluded and have fewer people.
Essential Travel Tips for Mature Travelers
I have learned a few things that will make your trip easier. First, you should carry a fire extinguisher, a first-aid kit, and a warning triangle in your vehicle. Every person in the car needs a warning vest if you have to get out on a main road. Also, you must use your low beam lights even during the day.
You will need a digital vignette to drive on Bulgarian roads. You can buy it at petrol stations or online. If you drive without one, you might be fined 150 Euros. Additionally, do not pay any police fines in cash. If a person asking for money says they are a policeman and wants cash, they are probably not real. Real fines are paid by direct debit.
The best time for a camping holiday is from June to August. The water temperature can reach 25 degrees Celsius. However, the mountain areas are much cooler all year round. You should always wear sun protection because the UV radiation is high in the mountains.
Food and Culture to Enjoy
Bulgarian cuisine is very tasty and diverse. You must try Banitsa, which is a delicious pastry. I also suggest the Shopska salad made with sheep milk cheese. If you are near the coast, the fresh seafood is excellent. Many local restaurants have outdoor areas where you can sit with your dog.
There are many festivals you can see. In Smilyan, they have a bean festival in November with drumming and competitions. In the first week of August, there is a traditional art festival at Camping Krapec. You might even see an impromptu concert on a summer stage. It is a wonderful way to experience the local life.
Finally, remember that you are a guest in these beautiful places. Help preserve nature by using garbage containers for all your waste. Do not throw cigarette butts on the sand or in the forest. With your responsible behavior, you help keep these campsites beautiful for everyone.
Bulgaria is a land of adventure and beauty. It is a place where you and your dogs can find peace among the trees or by the sea. I hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip. Safe travels and happy camping!
FAQ
Is wild camping allowed in Bulgaria?
Wild camping is officially prohibited by law in this country. However, authorities often tolerate it if you stay away from large cities and big tourist spots. You must avoid nature parks and nature reserves because the police perform controls there. You could face a heavy fine of 1,000 Euros if you park in a protected area. Therefore, it is safer to use the best camping places in bulgaria.
Is Bulgaria pet friendly?
Bulgaria is a great choice for travelers with pets. I found that many natural sites and outdoor paths are perfect for four-legged friends. You can enjoy the Rhodope Mountains or the Black Sea Coast without much trouble. Additionally, some restaurants and hotels in tourist cities like Sofia and Plovdiv welcome animals. It is not the most pet-friendly place in Europe, but it is not the worst.
Is it safe to camp in Bulgaria?
Official campsites offer a very safe environment for you and your family. You should know that vehicles with foreign license plates are sometimes targets for theft. Crimes like break-ins happen more often when you park in the wild. Plus, many established sites have fences and guards for extra peace of mind. It is always better to park where people are around.
Is Bulgaria friendly to foreigners?
Local residents are generally very fresh and positive toward guests. The hospitality here is excellent and the people take pride in their traditions. Many travelers from all over Europe come here to enjoy the authentic atmosphere. You will feel welcome at small family sites like Camping Koukery or Camping Kromidovo. Friendly hosts. Good vibes.
Which part of Bulgaria is best to stay in?
The mountains in the southwest are perfect for nature lovers. You can visit the Rila or Pirin ranges for a real hiking adventure. However, the Black Sea coast is better if you want a beach holiday. Spots like Obzor or Krapets offer a mix of peace and fun. Therefore, the best camping bulgaria depends on what you want to do.
Can I speak English in Bulgaria?
You can communicate in English at many modern campsites. For example, the owners of Blue Gate Camping Farm speak fluent English. Similarly, some sites have German-speaking staff to help guests. Later, you might find that older people in small villages only speak Bulgarian. Use your hands and feet to talk if you must.
How are dogs treated in Bulgaria?
Many people in Bulgaria are hospitable to dogs. They are welcome in most campsites and on wild beaches. However, you must be careful because packs of stray dogs live in some cities. Always keep your pet under control to avoid conflict. Plus, some locals may have different cultural attitudes toward dogs.
What to be careful of in Bulgaria?
First of all, you should watch out for poor road conditions and potholes. Do not drive at night in areas you do not know. Also, be careful of people who pretend to be police and ask for cash. Real fines must be paid through direct debit. Finally, you must carry a fire extinguisher and a first-aid kit in your car at all times.
Concluding Words
Your journey to The best 15 campings dog friendly in Bulgaria (2026) will be an adventure you never forget. This country offers a perfect mix of high mountains and golden beaches for every traveler.
You will find that sites like Camping Veliko Tarnovo and Eco Camping Batak provide great service and clean facilities. Remember to follow the rules for pet health and microchips before you cross the border. Whether you want to visit the Seven Rila Lakes or relax on the sands of Krapets, Bulgaria is a top spot for pet owners. Pack your van and start your tour today.
