14 Best Portable Dog Fences For Camping: Easy Carry & SetUp (2024 Review)

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portable dog fence for camping

If you want to share your outdoor adventures with your furbaby, a personal play place for Fido could come in handy. A dog portable fence for camping allows you to keep your special pal safe while you give him some freedom.

We reviewed 14 products currently on the market to help you find the best option for your needs.

First, let’s take a look at the reasons you might use a portable fence, some pros and cons, important features to consider when choosing a dog playpen for camping, and safety tips for using this type of enclosure:

Ruff 'n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen

Ruff 'n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen

Our Rankings:

4.3/5

Price Range:$$

The Ruff ‘n Rufus Portable Pet Playpen comes in three size options (when open):
  • Medium – 29” x 29” x 17”
  • Large – 36” x 36” x 23”
  • XL – 48” x 48” x 23.5”
It’s made from lightweight, waterproof nylon material that’s strong and durable. The product includes a carrying case and includes a reinforced floor mat and removable zippered top. There’s a zippered doorway to let your pup in and out. There’s no assembly needed with this portable fence. It pops up in moments and folds flat for storage. The eight-panel structure has reinforced corners and protected seams. This product is not adjustable.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Parkland Pet Portable Foldable Playpen

Parkland Pet Portable Foldable Playpen

Our Rankings:

4.4/5

Price Range:$$

With three sizes, the Parkland Pet Portable Playpen offers a lightweight option for your travels. Measurements when open are:
  • Small – 27” x 27” x 17”
  • Medium – 36” x 36” x 24”
  • Large – 48” x 48” x 24”
This product has a removable mesh roof, attached straps for stake-down,  and eight side panels. It comes fully assembled and sets up in a matter of seconds. When you’re done, you can quickly fold it flat for storage and carrying. Made from Oxford-coated  Denier materials, this enclosure is durable and weather-resistant. There are an attached floor and a zippered doorway for easy access.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Zampa Portable Foldable Pet playpen

Zampa Portable Foldable Pet playpen Exercise Pen Kennel

Our Rankings:

4.3/5

Price Range:$$

The Zampa dog playpen is made from durable, water-resistant materials. With eight panels and two zippered doors, this enclosure offers space for your furry pal to play off-leash. It comes in four sizes:
  • Extra Small – 29” x 29” x 17”
  • Small – 36” x 36” x 24”
  • Medium – 45” x 45” x 24”
  • Large – 61” x 61” x 30”
There’s a removable mesh top, an attached floor, and four metal stakes to secure the portable fencing to the ground. This product is designed to pop up in seconds and fold back for easy storage and carrying. There’s no assembly required.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

PicassoTiles PET4FUN

PicassoTiles PET4FUN Portable Dog Playpen

Our Rankings:

3.8/5

Price Range:$$

Made from 600D Oxford and 210D Nylon cloth, the Picasso Tiles portable playpen is lightweight and durable. This product features a reinforced steel wire frame that easily sets up without tools. There are four zippered doors with velcro seals and an attached floor. Select from two sizes:
  • Medium – 29” x 29” x 17”
  • Large – 36” x 36” x 24”
The kennel has a ½ mesh and ½ shaded roof covering. It comes with four stakes to secure the enclosure to the ground when using outside. Picasso Tiles comes pre-assembled and is not adjustable.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

ESK COLLECTION Blue 45"

ESK COLLECTION Blue 45

Our Rankings:

4.5/5

Price Range:$$

The ESK collection play kennel comes in one size: 48” x 48” x 24” and a variety of color options. It’s made from 600D Oxford cloth materials that are durable and washable. The sides and top have mesh screens. It pops up easily without assembly or tools, and you can fold it for easy storage and toting. There are a zippered roof and floor in this product.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Furhaven Pet Playpen

Furhaven Pet Playpen

Our Rankings:

4.5/5

Price Range:$$

As an easy-open pop-up pet tent, the Furhaven dog playpen provides an enclosed area for your dog to play or rest. It has six sides, a zippered door, and a removable mesh roof. This product comes in three colors and four sizes:
  • Small – 39” x 39” x 24”
  • Medium – 45” x 45” x 28”
  • Large – 51” x 51” x 30”
  • X-Large – 55” x 55” x 30”
The durable polyester material is easy to clean and flexible. The door and windows have mesh screening for free movement of air and a 360-degree view for your furbaby. The playpen requires no assembly, and it can be folded for travel or storage. Stakes are included for outdoor use.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Petsfit Pop Up Dog Playpen

Petsfit Pop Up Dog Playpen

Our Rankings:

4.6/5

Price Range:$$

With two sizes (36” diameter, 21” height or 42” diameter, 27” height), the Petsfit playpen has a zip-off, waterproof bottom, and a mesh roof. The eight panels include mesh windows and two zippered doorways. It pops up and folds easily and requires no tools or assembly. There are a removable top panel and side pockets where you can store small toys or goods. The product is made from 600D Oxford cloth and polyester. 

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

JESPET Pet Dog Playpen

JESPET Pet Dog Playpens 45

Our Rankings:

4.3/5

Price Range:$$

This water-resistant dog playpen is made from 600D Oxford fabric and mesh panels. It has eight sides and includes two zippered doors, a zip-off mesh roof, and a removable floor. The enclosure pops up quickly and folds easily for storage and carrying. You can select from three size options:
  • 36” x 36” x 24”
  • 45’ x 45” x 24”
  • 61” x 61” x 30”
With reinforced corners and protected seams, JESPET is made to be durable. It includes side pockets for storage and a mesh water bottle holder.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Aivituvin Pet Playpen Portable Foldable

Aivituvin Pet Playpen Portable Foldable

Our Rankings:

4.6/5

Price Range:$$

This product is made of 600D Oxford fabric for durability. It has eight sides, a washable tent bottom that’s waterproof, and a removable shade cover. There’s a zippered door, and the other panels have mesh screen windows for airflow. Select from two sizes:
  • Medium – 36” diameter, 23” height
  • Large – 45” diameter, 24” height
The Aivituvin playpen has wire-framing for added stability. The enclosure sets up and folds easily without tools.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

EXPAWLORER Portable Puppy Playpen

EXPAWLORER Portable Puppy Playpen

Our Rankings:

3.9/5

Price Range:$$

Made for puppies, the EXPAWLORER playpen has a 26” diameter and is 16” high. It pops up without assembly and folds flat for easy carrying and storage. The product is made from Oxford fabric and has mesh doors, windows, and a zip-off mesh top. There are side pockets for storage and four metal stakes to secure the tent outdoors.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Yaheetech Heavy Duty Foldable Metal Fence

Yaheetech Heavy Duty Foldable Metal Dog Exercise Fence

Our Rankings:

4.6/5

Price Range: $$$

With rust-proof and weather-resistant iron panels, the Yaheetech metal exercise dog fence is built to last. There are multiple panels that you can configure to fit your space. This product comes with metal stakes to connect each side, and no tools are required. It has rounded edges for your pup’s safety, and one panel has a doorway for easy access. Choose from 8, 16, or 32 panels of varying lengths. All fencing is 24” high. The sides can fold flat for easy transport and storage.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Hepeng Portable Foldable Pet Playpen

Hepeng Portable Foldable Pet Playpen

Our Rankings:

4.5/5

Price Range: $$

The Hepeng Portable playpen for small dogs is made from 600 Denier Oxford cloth and is washable. There’s no assembly required, and it pops up in seconds. This product is 36” x 36” x 23”. It has a zip-off, half-mesh roof, and an attached floor. One panel has a zippered mesh door entryway, and the other seven panels have mesh windows for visibility and airflow. You can fold this and fit it in a compact carrying case for easy storage or travel.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

PETMAKER Portable Pop Up Pet Playpen

PETMAKER Portable Pop Up Pet Play Pen with Carrying Bag

Our Rankings:

3.9/5

Price Range: $$

Made from 600D Oxford polyester, this portable dog kennel is weather-resistant and easy to wipe clean. It has a size of 38” diameter and 24” height and is recommended for pups that weigh 40 pounds or less. There’s no assembly required, and it folds flat for easy storage. The windows are mesh to allow for ventilation and visibility. With two unzip to open doors and a removable roof, you can easily access your pup and provide shade when needed. The floor is fully attached.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

BestPet Heavy Duty Dog Pen Extra Large Dog

BestPet Dog Playpen Extra Large Heavy Duty 8 Panels 32 Inches

Our Rankings:

4.1/5

Price Range: $$

The BestPet Dog Pen has metal fence panels that lay flat for storage and transport. There are eight sides that measure 31” x 31” each. With this product, you can adjust the shape of your pal’s enclosure to fit your space. It comes with metal rods to connect each panel. You’ll be able to assemble this easily without tools. The materials are heavy-duty and rust-free. One panel has a doorway with a locking latch.

What We Like About It

What We Don't Like

Face it. We love having our pups with us as much as possible. With a portable fence, dog owners can bring their four-footed friends with them on outings and can keep safe without denying their freedom.

What are the Pros and Cons of Portable Fencing?

There are both advantages and disadvantages associated with having a portable fence for camping. Let’s take a look:

Advantages/Pros

  • They’re easy to set up
  • They fold up so you can travel with them
  • They give your pooch freedom to move without a leash/tie
  • You can customize the perimeter
  • They don’t require much assembly
  • They’re a cost-effective alternative to permanent fencing if you also use it at home

Disadvantages/Cons

  • Some brands aren’t attached to anything and could move if your dog jumps on a section
  • It adds more bulk and weight to your camping gear – it could be a hindrance if you need to carry your stuff to the campsite!

Height – You’ll want a fence height that’s tall enough to contain your pooch. For smaller breeds like a terrier or toy poodle, a shorter wall may suffice. However, if you have a standard poodle or labrador retriever, look for something tall enough to discourage jumping or climbing.

Size – The size of your enclosure will depend on your pal’s breed and temperament. Some pups don’t need much space to be content. Larger, more active dogs will benefit from a bigger area.

Outdoor applications – You’ll want a product that’s coated or otherwise weather resistant. Additionally, you may want to consider something with a roof to protect your pal from flying insects and direct sunlight.

Weight – If you’re looking at fencing for camping trips, you’ll want something that’s lightweight yet sturdy. Consider a wire mesh model or a strong plastic with reinforcement.

Ease of Setup – The last thing you need when you’re setting up your campsite is to add hours to your time. Fortunately, most portable fences are simple and can be put together fairly quickly. Look for a product that won’t require you to pack special tools and that can be set up in minutes rather than hours.

Material – The most reliable materials will be made with steel or wire that’s coated to be weather-resistant. Look for products that are durable and lightweight.

Design/Shape – Because you’re looking for something you can use while camping, your best bet is to look for a customized, adjustable model. That way, you can remove or add panels and change the shape of the perimeter to fit your space.

Doors – If you have a medium to large breed dog, a door will come in handy. You don’t want to be lifting your furbaby over the panels to put him in and get him out.

When Would I Use a Portable Fence?

Puppy playpens can be used for more than outdoor adventures. You could use a portable fence for a variety of situations, including:

Camping – With a portable pet enclosure, you can set up an exercise area for your pooch right outside your tent or camper. That way he’ll have the freedom to enjoy his surroundings without risk of getting lost.

Visiting relatives/friends – If you’re traveling and staying in someone’s house, they may not have a way to secure Fido when he’s outside. With a portable fence, you can let you pal spend some time in the yard without worrying about him wandering off.

Potty training – A portable fence can help your new pup learn where to go potty.

Protection – Sometimes, you want a way to protect your furry friend from other dogs or people. For example, when a bitch is in heat, a fence can keep males from mating with her.

Indoors – A portable barrier lets you restrict your furbaby from areas in your or someone else’s home. Whether you have spaces that you want to keep pet and fur-free or you don’t want Fido on a freshly shampooed carpet, a fence can help.

Check /Panels Before Each Use

Examine the panels every time you set up your portable fence. That way, you’ll be more likely to spot any holes or weaknesses before your furry pal is able to find them and escape.

Don’t Leave Fido Unattended

Bringing a portable pet fence along when you’re camping doesn’t mean you can leave your furry pal alone while you go hiking. Remember, your pooch is in unfamiliar surroundings. He may try to jump or dig his way out of the enclosure to find you. This can result in injuries or a lost dog.

Set up in a Level Area

Once you’re at the campground, pick a spot with level ground. You don’t want gaps under the panels where your pooch could slip out. Uneven ground can also make the fence less stable and risk it collapsing or falling over.

Provide Fresh Water

When your pal is outside for long periods of time, make sure he has access to clean water. Fido needs to be able to get a drink whenever he’s thirsty. Check the supply to confirm that it’s not frozen in cold weather and not brackish or too warm in hot climates.

Consider the Climate

Before you keep your pal outside for long periods of time, check the weather. Some breeds are sensitive to cold and heat. Don’t leave them in the elements when they’re shivering or panting.

Is there a way to anchor this to the ground?

Some products come with stakes and loops to anchor the tent to the ground, but others do not. Check with the manufacturer to see if they provide stakes or other anchor mechanisms.

Will this stand up to an aggressive dog that’s trying to get out?

Many of the nylon or Oxford tents can tip easily. Read the product specifications to see if the playpen includes stakes to anchor the fencing. If your pup is a chewer, look for reinforced seams and corners for added stability.

Can I use this as a cage or kennel replacement?

We don’t recommend leaving your pup unattended while in a playpen or portable enclosure outside. It adds to the risk that your pal will try to escape or injure himself. If you have a quiet pooch you may be able to use a playpen in place of a crate, but use your best discretion. You won’t be there if your pal tries to chew or dig through the sides.

Pick of the Litter - Our Top Choice

After reviewing the products and comparing them with our criteria for a reliable travel kennel, we select Yaheetech Heavy Duty Foldable Metal Exercise Fence as our pick for Best Portable Dog Fence for Camping. Here’s Why:

It’s made of durable metal material and has a weather-resistant coating. The panels are sturdy and won’t tip over easily.

The design allows you to adjust the size and shape of the pen to suit your needs. You can use as many panels as you need and can buy a second compatible set to make a larger enclosure.

It also includes a doorway for easier access.

You can set the playpen up in a short time period without any tools. Everything you need comes in the kit. When you take it down, the panels stack neatly on top of one another for easy transport and storage.

This kennel will offer your pooch ample space to move around when you’re camping. As long as you don’t leave Fido unattended, it will probably be tall enough to contain him.

For the serious outdoorsman, we recommend Yaheetech as our top pick for a portable dog fence for camping.

Photo of author
Dr. Libby Guise earned her DVM from the University of Minnesota in 1994. After working in private practice in Wisconsin for two years, she joined the USDA as a Veterinary Medical Officer. In 2011, Libby came home to focus on raising and teaching her adoptive daughter. She lives in Wisconsin with her daughter, husband, and two furbabies: Charis, a lab-mix rescue pup, and Chesed, a Springer Spaniel.

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