The Coolest Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals in North America

Posted by Billy Francis

Thanks to the ever-growing canine travel movement, Fido isn’t confined to the doghouse anymore. Not only are more hotels opening their doors to pups every day, but renters are also increasingly catering to furry visitors. There are more than 350,000 vacation properties on BringFido to choose from, but which one is right for your next trip? How about a lake house with a mutt room? Or a condo with access to a rooftop dog park? Pack your bags for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure at these unique dog-friendly vacation rentals across North America.

Invisible House Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree, CA
Photo by Airbnb

Described as “one of the most spectacular homes in the world” by Brian Chesky, CEO of Airbnb, Invisible House Joshua Tree has to be seen to be believed. This horizontal skyscraper reflects the desert below and the clouds above on its mirrored window exterior. Inside the incredible open-plan home, you’ll find a 100-ft pool, concrete floors for easy cleanup and blackout shades throughout for Fido’s nap time. Slide open the floor-to-ceiling window doors and step outside onto the largest privately-owned parcel of land adjacent to Joshua Tree National Park, spanning 90 acres of desert beauty.

Underground Hygge

Orondo, WA
There is nothing like looking, if you want to find something...

A mystical journey awaits you and Fido at Underground Hygge just across the Columbia River from Moody Canyon in Washington State. As you approach this unique property built deep into the earth, you almost can’t help looking out for a hobbit or two. This one-bedroom house is ripped straight from the pages of Tolkien’s masterpiece, even down to the round front door. Once inside, you’ll find rustic decor that mimics the woodland surroundings. Wander along the dog-friendly trails of nearby Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and marvel at the 4-million-acre natural wonderland. Dog owners are reminded to keep Fido on a leash to prevent him from chasing any elves.

Sundance Lodge on Cypress Creek

Wimberley, TX
“Maybe this fella needs to take some advice from that throw blanket.”

The town of Wimberly is situated in Texas Hill Country, where Cypress Creek and the Blanco River meet. A haven for kayakers and pups who SUP, this is the place to bring dogs who feel one with the water. Sundance Lodge on Cypress Creek is conveniently located a quarter-mile from the picturesque Blue Hole swimming hole, which you can reach on the kayaks and canoes provided. The three-bedroom lodge welcomes dogs with a “Furry Friends Welcome” stone placard and packs with secret dog notes, pet beds, bowls, towels, treats and complimentary toys. You’ll even find a dog park on site for some off-leash recreation. Enjoy the day lounging in rocking chairs under the shade of the covered patio, or paddle down the river for some dog-diving fun.

Starship Landing

Yucca Valley, CA
Photo by Airbnb

There’s no need to raid Area 51 to get a glimpse of the great beyond. Starship Landing offers two pet-friendly homes on a stunning ranch in Yucca Valley ideal for stargazing and spotting the occasional passing UFO. The three-bedroom Starship Landing: Aurora is located in a secluded valley surrounded by hilly terrain, giving guests the feeling that they’re the only earthlings in the universe. The property is equipped with a hot tub, an outdoor cowboy tub, a fire pit area, a Mortal Kombat arcade machine, a six-person hammock circle and a covered patio.

The rest of your pack can stay in the neighboring Starship Landing: Luna. This sister house has three bedrooms and stunning views over the vast valley. It even comes with a life-sized alien butler.

Barkwells, where dogs are the guests of honor. Photo by @barkwells

Barkwells provides a retreat for dogs and their people. This small, peaceful community of vacation homes is designed specifically for dog lovers. There are no guests complaining about pups running off leash at this pet-friendly resort because Fido can run freely around the acres of fenced-in, green meadows. Canine guests can swim in the pond, indulge in a picnic near the creek and warm themselves next to the firepit at nightfall. Privacy can still be found in one of the eight pet-friendly cabins, each equipped with private fenced yards, an XL dog door, a gated porch and access to the shared space. The Peppermint Patty Cabin accommodates up to six guests, while Snickers satisfies four guests.

Photo by The Point

If you’re planning a dog-friendly family retreat, The Point could be the “pawfect” destination. Bordered by Green Lake and the Betsie River, this secluded home is a great getaway for people and pups who love the water. Dogs are invited to dive from the dock and swim over to the floating platform to sunbathe, or they can join you on the house kayaks for a paddle. When it’s time to go inside, head straight for The Mutt Room. This unique hangout space is designed specifically for canine guests and features a custom shower, eating area and anything else your pooch will need for a fun stay.

Luxury Condo with Ladybird Lake Views

Austin, TX
Photo by VRBO

Spoil your spaniel with a sublime stay at this luxury condo with Ladybird Lake views in Austin, TX. The ideal place to take your dog on a remote working adventure, this cool studio has a beautiful balcony where you can watch bats emerge from beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset. After work, take your dog for a walk around the lake or stay closer to home and head to the rooftop dog park on the tenth floor. Then, clean up your pup at the pet washing station on the ground floor before dishing up dinner in the complimentary food bowls and relaxing in your stylish home away from home for the evening.

The Luxury Tugboat

Louisa, VA
Photo by Airbnb

The Luxury Tugboat floats on a private 8-acre lake in the small town of Louisa in rural Virginia. Here, you can experience lakefront views from dry land or explore the water on a kayak or paddleboard excursion with your furry best friend. The property is also home to five miles of pet-friendly trails that weave through the surrounding woodland. After sunset, head to your private beach for a relaxing hangout by the fire and enjoy an uninterrupted starry night sky above.

Kishauwau Cabins

Tonica, IL
Photo by Kishauwau Cabins

Kishauwau Cabins will have tails wagging in Tonica, IL. Situated among 65 acres of private countryside, guests with four legs will have more than enough space to explore on a morning walk. There are four dog-friendly cabins, each with enough room for a pack of four and a pup. Choose from Winnebago and Zonta with whirlpool tubs, The Comanche, and the budget Mother-in-law cabin. During your stay, take a day trip to nearby Starved Rock State Park and enjoy the beauty of the park from one of the easy dog-friendly trails.

Photo by VRBO

Camp Karibu is an “ultimate vacation basecamp” in Lake Placid, NY. This incredible home sleeps ten people across four spacious under-paw heated floors, which are hardwood for easy cleanup. Outside, there’s a gorgeous lawn for fetch and a firepit area surrounded by chairs that face out over a pristine golf course green with views of the Adirondacks in the distance. After the sun sets, head inside for an evening in front of the fireplace. Fido may be confused by his own reflection, but he’ll love staring into Mirror Lake on an afternoon excursion with the pack.

Have you stayed at one of these unique dog-friendly vacation properties? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!

Banner photo by Airbnb.