Traveling with Dogs to Door County
Published
For most of us, our dogs are members of the family and deserve an exciting, out-of-the-ordinary experience as much as we do.
In Door County, dogs are welcome in parks, communities, and trails as well as many restaurants, lodgings and campgrounds, shops, and other businesses. Taking a trip here doesn’t mean leaving behind your precious pup—it means bringing them along for the adventure.
If you’re exploring pet-friendly trips, here are some tips and ideas for traveling with a dog to Door County.
Where to Eat & Sleep
Always call ahead to verify a business allows dogs on the premises, but many lodging and dining spaces in Door County do welcome them. Check out these lists of dog-friendly businesses:
Find Dog-Friendly Businesses
Find Dog-Friendly Lodging
4 Things to Do With Your Dog
State & County Parks
Dogs are welcome on most hiking trails, campgrounds, roads, and outlying areas in local state and county parks, so long as a few common-sense rules are followed. If you’re headed to a park, be sure to check for specific county or state regulations regarding dogs. Leashed dogs are also allowed in local nature preserves.
Note most beaches, playgrounds, buildings, and other areas are off limits for dogs. Whitefish Dunes State Park offers a dog-friendly beach, which is found just off the Red Trail.
Dog Parks
You’ll find no better—or safer—place to play with your pup than one of the area’s designated dog parks. Let him or her off leash to play with other dogs, get in their daily run, expend extra energy, or explore the open space.
Hiking Trails
No dog can be unhappy on a trail in the woods. Treat your pet to a hike on one of the region’s dozens of fantastic trails found in parks, along beaches and shoreline, and on nearby islands. They’ll love the freedom and new smells, you’ll love the scenic views and natural features.
Island Hopping
Leashed dogs are allowed on the ferries that take travelers from the mainland to Washington Island and Rock Island, so you can explore these remote and rustic islands with your dog in tow. Both islands offer parks, hiking trails, and campgrounds where you can find some peace, quiet, and room to roam.
Note that resources like water, dog food, and first-aid gear are limited on Washington Island and unavailable on Rock Island.
Campgrounds
In addition to pet-friendly campgrounds in state parks, Door County has many pet-friendly private campgrounds. If your dog is the hearty type, consider sleeping, eating, and exploring under the sky and stars, where you need never part from them.
Plan Your Pet-Friendly Trip
Need even more inspiration for vacationing with your dog in Door County? Check out these pet-friendly trip ideas and resources.
Traveling with Your Dog this Summer?
Review the Leave No Trace 7 Principles so you and your pet (or pets!) can reduce your environmental impact.
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