With over 250,000 rivers in the U.S., doggie paddlers, canine anglers and pups who just want to relax have plenty of options when it comes to riverfront vacations. But the stunning views, quiet locations, and top-of-the-line amenities at these eight pet-friendly vacation rentals are sure to have Fido’s tail wagging, and we think you’ll like them, too.
Riverfront Rentals for Rover
Posted by Lauren Barker
Osprey Riverfront Cabin
Located in Montana’s Bitterroot Valley, the Osprey Riverfront Cabin is an angler’s dream come true. Bring Fido along to this picturesque getaway in Big Sky Country and cast a line for trout on the Bitterroot River, just outside the back door. The cabin sits on 10 acres overlooking the river and a wildlife refuge. After a day of fishing, kick back on the full-length deck or large patio and cook dinner on the gas grill. Then gather around the fire pit and watch the water flow by with the Scarlett Mountains as a backdrop. When you want to venture out, check out more beautiful views at Fort Owen State Park or head into Missoula for dinner at Iron Horse Brew Pub.
Riverfront Retreat
Cuddle up with your pup on the outdoor couch or relax in rocking chairs overlooking the Paluxy River at this Riverfront Retreat in Glen Rose. The three-bedroom house has large windows to let in the sunshine and provide you with river views from almost every room. Take a walk with Fido to Big Rocks Park, just two blocks away, and enjoy trails and shaded picnic spots along the river. Then let your canine climb on the unusually large rocks and dip his paws in the water to cool off. When it’s time to eat, head to Snyder’s Tavern for dinner overlooking the river.
Blue Heron Cabin
Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure with your pooch, there are plenty of options at Blue Heron Cabin on the banks of the Bogue Chitto River in Summit. The one-bedroom cabin is nestled on two acres and is surrounded by trees for plenty of shade on a summer day. Gather around the fire pit with your family and Fido, play a game of ping pong in the open-air lower level or cornhole on the lawn, lounge on the covered deck overlooking the river, soak in the outdoor bathtub or take a nap in the hammock by the water. Join your adventurous canine for a paddle in one of the two kayaks provided and if he decides to jump in and paddle on his own, clean him up in the outdoor shower.
River Haven
With 250 feet of frontage along the Boardman River, just outside Traverse City, River Haven is the perfect spot to unwind with Fido. Sit back in the Adirondack chairs on the dock overlooking the water, or gather the whole family in the detached sunroom right on the water’s edge. On chilly evenings, your pup can join you around the outdoor fire pit, or snuggle with you next to the wood-burning fireplace inside. If your pooch wants to spend some time on the water, four kayaks are available to use for a small additional fee. If he’d rather hike, Brown Bridge Quiet Area, a 1,300-acre preserve with eight miles of trails is just minutes away.
Bantam River Cottage
Bantam River Cottage in Washington Depot is full of New England charm. Nestled on the banks of the Bantam River, this historic 1850s home was once a gunsmith’s shop. Today, it welcomes visitors on two and four legs to enjoy a peaceful retreat where the sound of the river can be heard from every room. But Fido will want to spend his time outdoors on the large deck with cozy seating, a Napoleon grill and a fire pit. Near the water’s edge, there’s a second fire pit, Adirondack chairs and a hammock in a small grove of pine trees. Spend an afternoon playing lawn games like croquet, badminton and whiffle ball, or take the granite steps down into the river for a swim. Venture out for the day and explore nearby Mount Tom State Park, then have dinner at West Shore Seafood or pick up something from their market and bring it back for a meal on the cottage deck.
Tranquil Savannah River Cottage
Spanish moss, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a dock on the Savannah River make this tranquil cottage an ideal southern getaway for people and their pups. The fenced yard gives Fido a chance to explore off leash while you lounge around the fire pit or under the fans of the pergola with a good book. Cast a line from the dock and see if you can spot the sunken wooden boat or the remnants of a Civil War shipyard. Take your pup on a leashed walk around the two acres where Revolutionary and Civil War battles were fought. Civil War bullets and an officer’s revolver have been found on the property. Four-legged guests can also enjoy the use of bowls, leashes and other pet supplies and of course, yummy treats! If your pup is on the hunt for more history, travel to nearby Savannah and take a history tour with Oliver Bentleys!
River House
Escape your hectic daily life and head to the River House in Siloam Springs for a rejuvenating stay with your furry best friend. Located on the Illinois River, this three-bedroom home on three acres is a great spot for watching wildlife like bald eagles, blue herons and ducks. Catch a glimpse while lounging with your pup on the deck or in the sunroom overlooking the water. Then fish from the bank or take the kayaks out for a paddle. Grill up dinner on the expansive patio and warm up around the smokeless fire pit. For additional fun on the water, book a kayak or canoe rental from Gypsy Camp & Kayak and they’ll drop you off at City of Siloam Springs Kayak Park for a four-mile float with Fido.
River Run Tiny House
The River Run Tiny House in Dorchester, IA is a little home with big views. Everything you need for a relaxing weekend getaway, fishing trip, or small family vacation with Fido is packed into 340 square feet located right on the banks of the Upper Iowa River. Bring your fishing gear, kayak or canoe and enjoy some time on the calm, quiet water. Or, relax on land and admire the views from the hot tub on the home’s back deck, around the fire pit, or from inside the living space. With Iowa’s four seasons, this riverfront tiny home is perfect for a vacation with your pup any time of year. If you choose to explore the area, head to nearby Decorah and have drinks on the pet-friendly patio at Pulpit Rock Brewing Company or Dixie’s Biergarten.
Have you stayed in a riverfront rental with your dog? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!
Banner photo by Unsplash/Ivan Dimitrov.