Vacations are always better with your best friend by your side. But if you’re tired of the crowded tourist spots and want to experience a more peaceful getaway, there are plenty of beautiful pet-friendly destinations that offer tranquility without the throngs of visitors. Whether you’re seeking a remote national park, a charming small town, or an outdoor adventure, these nine destinations offer the perfect setting for a relaxing vacation with your dog—far from the crowded hotspots.
1. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Big Bend is a hidden gem located in the far reaches of West Texas. Its remote location means fewer tourists, allowing you and your dog to truly disconnect and immerse yourselves in nature. The park offers spectacular views of vast deserts, towering mountains, and the Rio Grande river. While pets are not allowed on most trails, there are over 200 miles of dirt roads that are open to leashed dogs, offering plenty of space to explore.
You can also enjoy scenic drives, visit small towns nearby, or stay in pet-friendly campsites and vacation rentals. The quieter, less-visited nature of Big Bend makes it an ideal place for those looking to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful retreat with their furry companion.
2. Dixie National Forest, Southern Utah
For pet owners looking to stretch their legs and explore vast, pet-friendly landscapes, Dixie National Forest in Southern Utah is the place to go. Covering nearly 2 million acres, it offers an impressive array of trails, fishing streams, and lakes that are all pet-friendly. Unlike nearby Bryce and Zion National Parks, which have strict pet regulations, Dixie National Forest allows pets to roam freely on its trails, making it a perfect choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Red Canyon Trail is particularly notable, taking hikers through colorful hoodoos and offering plenty of room for your dog to explore. With 18 seasonal campgrounds and pet-friendly accommodations in nearby Panguitch, Dixie is a haven for both humans and their four-legged companions.
3. Florence, Oregon
Florence is a charming coastal town that offers all the beauty of the Oregon coast without the over-the-top crowds. You and your dog can enjoy hiking the Sweet Creek Trail, which takes you past 11 waterfalls, or rent a kayak and paddle along the Siuslaw River. The area’s pet-friendly trails at Cape Perpetua provide stunning views of the coastline, and all 26 miles of trails are open to dogs on-leash.
With pet-friendly lodging options, including a Best Western that welcomes both dogs and cats up to 80 pounds, Florence is a relaxing destination where you and your pup can enjoy nature without the chaos of crowded tourist spots.
4. Fort Worden State Park, Port Townsend, Washington
Nestled on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, Fort Worden State Park is a unique destination filled with history and natural beauty. Formerly a military base, the park now offers 433 acres of pet-friendly trails, sandy beaches, and scenic views of the Puget Sound. The park is a great spot for a leisurely stroll with your dog, and you can even bring your canoe or kayak to explore the water.
For a truly unique experience, stay in one of the park’s renovated Victorian houses, many of which welcome pets. The nearby town of Port Townsend offers a lovely blend of history, shopping, and dining, making it an excellent base for exploring the area with your furry friend.
5. Hudson Valley, New York
Just a short drive from New York City, the Hudson Valley offers stunning vistas, charming villages, and plenty of pet-friendly activities. Head to Bear Mountain State Park for panoramic views and pet-friendly hiking along the Appalachian Trail. The park’s 800 stone steps lead to some of the best vistas in the region, and your dog will love the journey.
For a quieter experience, take a stroll through Sleepy Hollow Cemetery or visit one of the many pet-friendly accommodations throughout the Hudson Valley. Whether you’re looking to hike, relax, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views, the Hudson Valley is an ideal getaway for you and your pet.
6. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Mackinac Island is a picturesque destination that transports you back in time. This car-free island in Lake Huron is the perfect place to unwind with your dog. With 80% of the island preserved within Mackinac Island State Park, there are miles of trails, beautiful shorelines, and even horse-drawn taxis that will accommodate your pet.
Although camping isn’t allowed on the island, there are several pet-friendly lodging options, including Mission Point Resort, which welcomes pets for a small fee. With plenty of outdoor activities and stunning views of Lake Huron, Mackinac Island provides a peaceful retreat for both you and your dog.
7. Natchez Trace, Tennessee to Mississippi
For a road trip that’s as relaxing as it is scenic, drive the Natchez Trace Parkway. This 444-mile route connects Nashville, Tennessee, to Natchez, Mississippi, and offers plenty of pet-friendly stops along the way. With over 100 exhibits and marked trails, you and your dog can enjoy the tranquility of the changing landscapes, from thick forests to cypress swamps.
The parkway’s 28 pet-friendly hiking trails are perfect for stretching your legs, and the drive itself is ideal for taking in the sights at a leisurely pace. Though there are no major lodging options directly on the Trace, nearby towns offer pet-friendly accommodations, making this an excellent off-the-beaten-path getaway.
8. Paradise Valley, Montana
Just outside Yellowstone National Park, Paradise Valley offers stunning views of the Yellowstone River and surrounding mountains. This peaceful valley is perfect for pet owners who want to explore nature without the crowds that often fill national parks. Your dog will enjoy hiking the pet-friendly trails in the Gallatin National Forest or taking in the scenery from one of the many access points along the river.
With ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing, and hiking, Paradise Valley is an ideal destination for a relaxing, pet-friendly vacation. The nearby towns of Livingston and Gardiner provide pet-friendly lodging, making it easy to find a comfortable place to stay.
9. St. Johnsbury, Vermont
For a truly unique experience, head to St. Johnsbury, Vermont, where you and your dog can visit Dog Mountain, a 150-acre, off-leash paradise for dogs. Created by artists Stephen and Gwen Huneck, Dog Mountain features hiking trails, a pond, and even a pet-friendly art gallery. The centerpiece is a chapel with pews carved with dog figures and stained-glass windows celebrating the joy that dogs bring to our lives.
St. Johnsbury also offers picturesque views and access to Vermont’s Green Mountains, making it a perfect base for outdoor exploration. With pet-friendly accommodations in the area, you and your dog can enjoy the quiet beauty of this charming town and its surroundings.
Conclusion
Vacations are a time to relax and recharge, and what better way to do that than with your furry friend by your side? These nine pet-friendly destinations offer the perfect mix of adventure, nature, and peace—without the crowds. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains, exploring a historic island, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, these trips will provide you and your pet with unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, grab your leash, and get ready for a getaway that both you and your dog will love!
