Planning a vacation with your furry best friend? You’re not alone. More people are searching for dog friendly vacation spots and seeking the best ways to include their pets in their travel plans. Whether you want to explore scenic parks, spend time at the beach, or embark on a memorable road trip, traveling with your dog is easier than ever—especially when you choose the comfort and convenience of a Cruise America RV rental.

Pet parents planning vacations with their dogs will find plenty of options to create lasting memories together. In this guide, we’ll cover the best vacations with dogs, top destinations across the U.S., different trip styles, and tips for traveling with pets safely and happily.

Why Choose an RV for Dog Friendly Vacations?

Taking your dog on vacation in an RV offers a unique mix of flexibility, space, and comfort. Instead of worrying about hotel restrictions or crowded planes, your pup can travel right alongside you in a familiar space with their bed, toys, and treats.

Benefits of RV travel with dogs:

• Avoid airline restrictions and pet fees

• Stop anytime for bathroom breaks, walks, or playtime

• Bring your dog’s favorite comforts from home

• Keep your pet close and supervised the entire trip

• Stay in pet-friendly campgrounds with dog parks or nature trails

RV travel is especially great for dogs that may be anxious in unfamiliar settings. The RV becomes their safe, familiar space wherever you go.

Introduction to Pet Friendly Vacations

Planning a pet friendly vacation doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With so many dog friendly getaways available across the country, you and your furry friend can enjoy everything from scenic hiking trails in the Southeast to relaxing retreats in the Pacific Northwest.

Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful escape surrounded by nature or an action-packed adventure exploring downtown city lights, there’s a vacation spot perfect for every type of traveler. RV travel enables you to make all the dog friendly accommodations possible.

Top Dog-Friendly Getaway Destinations

1. Acadia National Park, Maine

Over 100 miles of dog friendly trails and carriage roads await visitors, offering scenic hiking routes where leashed pets are welcome. Leashed pets are also allowed in campgrounds and most outdoor areas.

2. Outer Banks, North Carolina

Enjoy wide-open dog friendly beach areas, coastal trails, and relaxed RV parks. Many beaches allow dogs year-round, with some leash rules varying by season.

3. Sedona, Arizona

Hike pet-friendly red rock trails featuring stunning rock formations, enjoy outdoor patios, and stay in pet-welcoming RV parks with beautiful desert views.

4. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Over 500 miles of trails where leashed pets are welcome. Great fall foliage, cool summer temps, and Skyline Drive offers stunning views throughout the park.

5. Oregon Coast

Many coastal towns like Cannon Beach, Newport, and Florence are known for dog-friendly beaches, RV campgrounds, and scenic coastal drives. The Oregon Coast is also famous for its rugged cliffs, which create dramatic and breathtaking views along the shoreline.

6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Several trails and all campgrounds welcome pets. The park features numerous dog friendly trails, offering a variety of scenic routes for visitors with dogs. Visit Cades Cove, picnic spots, and pet-friendly nature paths.

7. Grand Canyon (South Rim), Arizona

Pets are allowed on several rim trails and in campgrounds. Just remember to stick to a designated dog friendly trail when exploring with your pet.

8. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

A high-altitude getaway with pet-friendly beaches, trails, and campsites. Lake Tahoe also features a popular dog beach, where your pup can play off-leash and enjoy the water. Enjoy paddleboarding, hiking, and camping with your pup.

9. Asheville, North Carolina

One of the most dog-friendly cities in the South. Many restaurants, breweries, and parks welcome your trusted companion.

10. Bar Harbor, Maine

A charming coastal town near Acadia National Park, with dog-welcoming shops, boat tours, and trails. Bar Harbor also features a beautiful waterfront park, offering scenic views and dog-friendly amenities for you and your pet to enjoy.

11. Austin, Texas

With countless off-leash parks, dog-friendly patios, and a vibrant culture, Austin is a top city for pet lovers. Check out Zilker Park or stroll along Lady Bird Lake.

12. Bend, Oregon

This Pacific Northwest gem offers riverside trails, off-leash parks, and even dog-friendly breweries. It’s a haven for active dogs and their humans.

13. Flagstaff, Arizona

Cooler temps and shaded forests make this mountain town a great summer escape. With trails and national forests all around, it’s perfect for outdoor-loving pups.

14. Hilton Head, South Carolina

Known for its welcoming beaches and Southern charm, Hilton Head allows leashed dogs on the beach during certain hours. Many RV parks in the area are pet-friendly.

15. Door County, Wisconsin

This Midwestern getaway is full of lakeside parks, dog-friendly shops, and scenic drives. It’s a quieter option that’s great for low-key RV travel with pets.

16. Santa Fe, New Mexico

With beautiful desert landscapes, dog-friendly trails, and art markets that welcome leashed pets, Santa Fe is a cultural destination for dogs and their humans.

17. Key West, Florida

This tropical island is a hit with dog lovers, offering pet-friendly boat tours, off-leash dog beaches, and plenty of sun. It’s perfect for winter escapes.

18. Chattanooga, Tennessee

Nestled along the Tennessee River, Chattanooga has pet-friendly hiking, riverside parks, and walkable neighborhoods filled with outdoor patios.

19. Minneapolis, Minnesota

Often overlooked, Minneapolis is packed with dog-friendly lakes, off-leash dog parks, and a surprisingly robust food scene that welcomes pets.

20. Leavenworth, Washington

This Bavarian-style village in the Cascades offers pet-friendly trails, beer gardens, and RV parks surrounded by alpine views. Great for both summer hikes and winter snow fun.

5 Types of Trips Loved by Furry Friends

Dogs love exploring just as much as we do. Here are five types of dog-friendly vacations that are especially fun for our four-legged companions—each offering unique sensory adventures and bonding moments.

Camping Trips

Setting up your RV in a national park, forest, or scenic campground creates a paradise of smells, wildlife, and wide-open space for your dog. Campgrounds offer grassy areas, quiet surroundings, and nearby hiking trails where your pup can stretch their legs. For dogs that love sniffing, exploring, and snoozing by the campfire, there’s no better getaway.

Beach Vacations

Splash zones, digging pits, and long sandy runs—beaches are an ideal playground for water-loving dogs. Many U.S. beaches offer off-season access or designated dog-friendly areas where pups can run leash-free. From chasing waves to beachcombing with you at sunset, dogs experience full-body joy during beach vacations.

Long Drives & Road Trips

Few things excite dogs more than hopping into a vehicle and hitting the road with their humans. The ever-changing scenery, new pit stops, and roadside walks create endless mental stimulation. Road trips also mean your dog gets to stay close to you every mile of the way.

Mountain Retreats

Mountain destinations are perfect for dogs who enjoy cooler temperatures and physical activity. Forest trails, alpine lakes, and elevated campgrounds offer plenty of places for hiking, wildlife-watching, and peaceful rest under the pines. Plus, high elevations often provide a break from summer heat.

Small Town Exploring

Charming small towns often welcome dogs with open arms. From dog-friendly boutique shops to outdoor cafés and riverwalks, these destinations offer relaxing, walkable adventures. Many towns also feature an off-leash dog park, community events, and local treats that make tails wag nonstop.

Best U.S. States for Dog Friendly Vacations

Tips for Safe and Comfortable Travel With Dogs

Accommodations and RV Parks

Finding the right place to stay is key to a successful dog friendly vacation. Most parks, including many national parks, like Acadia National Park and along the Blue Ridge Parkway, offer pet friendly camping and RV sites equipped with thoughtful amenities. Before you book at a campground, be sure to check each property’s possible pet fees and policies to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free stay for both you and your pet. With so many welcoming options, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect park or camp spot for your next adventure with your best friend.

What to Pack:

• Food and water bowls

• Enough food and treats for the trip

• Leashes, harnesses, and waste bags

• Favorite toys and blankets

• Vaccination records and ID tags

• Pet-safe bug repellant and first aid kit

• Collapsible bowls for hiking

• Paw balm for rough terrain

Safety on the Road:

• Use a crate, seatbelt harness, or secure carrier

• Never leave pets alone in the RV during hot weather

• Park in shaded areas and crack windows when safe

• Plan plenty of breaks for water and exercise

Keeping Dogs Comfortable:

• Stick to their regular routine for feeding and walks

• Bring familiar items to help them feel at home

• Monitor for signs of overheating: panting, drooling, lethargy

• Use pet cooling mats or portable fans in the RV

Budgeting and Expenses

A pet friendly vacation can be both fun and affordable with a little planning. Start by considering the costs of pet friendly accommodations/activities, pet fees, and any special gear your dog might need. Many pet friendly restaurants and cafes offer outdoor seating and even special menus for your pup, so you can enjoy meals together without extra hassle.

For budget-friendly outdoor activities, look for national forests and state parks that offer free or low-cost admission and plenty of space for your dog to explore. By researching options and planning ahead, you can create a memorable vacation filled with outdoor activities, great food, and quality time with your furry friend—without breaking the bank.

The Emotional and Mental Benefits of Vacationing With Your Dog

Dog friendly vacations aren’t just fun—they’re deeply fulfilling for both humans and pets. Taking a trip together strengthens the bond between you and your dog in ways that daily routines at home simply can't replicate.

For Humans:

• Reduces Stress: Being in nature or on the road with your dog helps you disconnect from work and responsibilities, lowering cortisol and boosting happiness.

• Encourages Mindfulness: Dogs live in the moment—and traveling with them helps you do the same. Whether it's watching a sunrise or taking a slow walk through a forest, your dog reminds you to enjoy the now.

• Increases Social Interaction: Traveling with a dog can spark conversations and connections with fellow travelers and locals. Dogs are natural icebreakers!

• Boosts Physical Activity: Dogs need walks and exercise, which keeps you active too—whether it’s hiking a trail, running on a beach, or exploring a new town.

For Dogs:

• Mental Stimulation: New environments offer fresh smells, sights, and experiences, which keep your pup’s mind engaged.

• Strengthens Trust: Being with you in unfamiliar settings reinforces your dog’s sense of safety and strengthens your bond.

• Decreases Separation Anxiety: Instead of being left behind during vacation, your dog stays close, reinforcing their emotional well-being.

• Promotes Physical Health: New places often mean more time outdoors, more walks, and more time spent active.

These shared experiences—long walks, campfire cuddles, scenic views—become core memories for both of you. Traveling together creates a deepened connection rooted in trust, companionship, and mutual joy.

The Joy of Traveling With Your Best Friend

Taking your dog on vacation doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little planning, an RV becomes the perfect home on wheels for both you and your beloved sidekick. Whether you're hiking trails in Virginia, relaxing on the beach in California, or cruising the coast of Oregon, dog friendly vacations are filled with wagging tails, joyful barks, and unforgettable memories.

Cruise America makes it easy. Our RVs are pet-friendly and offer plenty of space for your pup to take in the adventure ahead. Book your next pet friendly vacation today!