Exploring the 23-mile Pine Mountain Trail at F.D. Roosevelt State Park can be hot business. For one day each year, Georgia’s largest state park allows dogs to cool off in the pool after their hike. Pups can do more than just laps at Dog Splash and Luau at Liberty Bell Pool. There are also a range of contests both in and out of the water. All the pups will have a great time at this event, making for stiff competition in the “Most Wags” category. Dogs can also strut their stuff in the pool and try to land the “Biggest Splash”. Visit the vet and trainer Q&A table for help and advice about your pooch, and they might even give you some pointers for the “Best Trick” contest.

The Liberty Bell Pool Dog Splash and Luau will be held on September 7, 2024. The fee is $10 per dog. Stay overnight with your American Water Spaniel at Microtel Inn and Suites by Wyndham Columbus North.

Puppapalooza combines your dog’s need for speed with their love of water. This event features two parts: a one-mile beach stroll with Fido and a doggie pool party. Walk participants receive free admission, a special time slot to the pool party and a pup-themed goody bag full of Puppalooza swag. During the pool party, dogs can paddle in the river adventure, play in the fountain pool, or fetch tennis balls in the activity pool at Raging Waters Water Park. Owners will find food and beverage options (and doggie ice cream) at PigDog Beach Bar for purchase.

This dog-friendly event will be held on September 7, 2024. Combined dog and owner admission to the water park starts at $25 if purchased by August 20, 2024. If Fido has any energy left at the end of the day, he can take a stroll down to the famous giant red fire hydrant of Wildwood Dog Park & Beach, one of the most dog-friendly beaches on the East Coast. Rest weary paws at Sand Box Motel where your pup will be given treats, bowls, a bed and have use of the grassy pet relief area.

Knoebels, one of the world’s most pet-friendly amusement parks, offers a great day out for humans and canines alike. Enjoy a relaxing train ride together, drive an antique car or ride on the historic carousel before heading to Crystal Pool. America’s largest free-admission amusement park welcomes dogs year-round but only allows them to use the pool on special occasions. Doggie Dive at Knoebels Amusement Resort includes free rein of the pool for dogs, a Chinese auction, a bake sale, gourmet dog treats to sample and purchase, and a chance to meet a few heroes from local animal rescue organizations. Knoebels rewards the non-profits for their hard work by donating all of the proceeds to their causes.

Doggie Dive at Knoebels Amusement Resort will be held on September 8, 2024. The fee is $10 per dog. You can camp with your pup at Knoebels Campground and extend the fun overnight.

Dogapoolooza at Lava Hot Springs is an exciting day filled with swimming, fun activities, and contests. Everybody loves Fido’s cute underbite and bad haircut, but if you think he might only be beautiful in your eyes, he can enter the Ugliest Dog Contest. Pups who are more classically adorable can try their luck in the Cutest Dog Contest instead. You can also bring your dashing Dachshund along to race other pups in the Wiener Dog Race. But if it’s doggy paddling your pooch is after, he’ll enjoy the open swim at the Olympic Swimming Complex.

Dogapoolooza will be held on September 10, 2024. The fee is $10 per dog, and the proceeds will go to ANH Bear Lake. If you’re traveling from out of town, relax at the comfortable Lava Spa Motel & RV Park with your pooch.

The sixth annual Bark in the Waterpark at Montage Mountain Resorts is set to be the best yet. Located just eight miles from Scranton, PA, the resort is usually bustling with excited skiers carving down the slopes, but at this time of year, the pool is where it’s at. Your pup is invited to play water fetch, imitate a striking wild animal in the polar bear pond and join in the games led by park employees. When her paws start to go pruney, you can wander between the doggy vendors and attempt to bag yourself a souvenir from a giveaway.

Bark in the Waterpark at Montage Mountain Resorts will be held on September 8, 2024. Admission is $15 for humans, but dogs swim for free. If you need a reliable spot to stay, check out the Hampton Inn Scranton at Montage Mountain for pet-friendly accommodations.

The Venetian Pool in Coral Gables differs from the other watering holes on this list because it’s made entirely of coral rock quarry and fed with spring water from an aquifer. The pool dates back to 1924 and has been maintained to reflect the Florida in which it was built, surrounded by palm trees and gorgeous Spanish-style buildings. Small and large dogs can enjoy this idyllic space in separate sessions at Paws in the Pool, which gives every dog the chance to have fun at their own pace. Doggy paddle underneath the waterfall in the blue-green water and imagine yourself drifting off together to a tropical paradise far away. This popular event has a maximum capacity of 200, so sign Fido up early.

Paws in the Pool will be held on October 6, 2024. Small dogs swim from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and large dogs swim from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. The fee is $6 per dog and $5 per human. Admission is only granted to people with dogs. If you’re dog-tired after your swim, get some R&R with Fido at Chateaubleau Hotel.

Bring your pup to Drool in the Pool to enjoy a dip in the Shrewsbury Aquatic Center pool before it closes down for the season. Humans are free and are welcome to wade, knee-deep, but no swimming is allowed. Pet owners just need to provide current shot records for each dog (valid through the event date).

Drool at the Pool takes place on Tuesday, September 3rd from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. or 6:45 - 8:15 p.m. Register in advance at the Shrewsbury City Center for $10 per dog, or pay $15 cash or card on the day of the event. Book a room at Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis Union Station to explore The Gateway to the West with your pup.

Greenville gives South Carolina dogs two bites at the tennis ball with its Waggin’ at the Waterpark events, hosted at Discovery Island and Otter Creek. The Splash Days are split into two categories, with separate times for small and large dogs. This gives nervous little pups the chance to get comfortable in the water without having to worry about a bounding Boxer barreling them into the deep end. Furry friends can play on the splash pads, paddle in the pool, or charm the vendors for free goodies.

Waggin’ at the Waterpark will be held at Discovery Island on September 7, 2024, and at Otter Creek on September 14, 2024. Pre-registration fees start at $34 for Greenville County residents and $42.50 for non-residents, and discounts are available for people attending both events. Check out dog-friendly downtown Greenville for the night and stay at Aloft Greenville Downtown.