BringFido's Ruff Guide to Oregon

Posted by Jason Halliburton

Thinking of pampering your Pomeranian on a trip to Oregon? If so, he’s one lucky dog. The editors at BringFido have dedicated themselves to digging up the dog-friendliest things to do in The Beaver State, as well as the rest of the country. And we've assembled it all in the latest edition of our book, Ruff Guide to the United States.

Now in its second edition, the book features over 365 of the best places to stay and play with your dog in all 50 states. Order your copy today and save 50% off the retail price when you use the discount code BEAVER.

For a preview of the book, here are a few of our editors' top picks for dog-friendly things to do in Oregon.

Drive the Dunes With Your Dog

North Bend, OR
“I don’t remember signing up for this.” Photo by Melissa Halliburton

Bring Fido on a fur-flying adventure at the Oregon dunes with an off-road vehicle rental from Spinreel Dune Buggy in North Bend. Located across the street from Oregon’s largest dune-riding area, the company has two-seater buggies with plenty of room in the back for your four-legged friend. After a quick lesson and safety briefing, you’ll be ready to ride. Drive at your own pace as you enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean from the top of the majestic dunes. If you prefer having someone else at the wheel, head 30 miles north to Sand Dunes Frontier for a Big Buggy Tour. Your leashed pup is welcome to join you on guided trips. After your ride, let Fido shake off the sand in his fur with a hike along the nearby John Dellenback Dunes Trail.

After your dune-riding adventure, spend the night in one of eight pet-friendly yurts at William M. Tugman State Park. These rustic, rounded tent-like dwellings feature beds, wood flooring, heaters and electricity, but you’ll need to bring your own sleeping bags and towels. Shared bathroom facilities are available on-site, and the park is located less than three miles from the John Dellenback Dunes Trail.

Fetch Sticks by the Stacks

Cannon Beach, OR
Sandy paws are happy paws. Photo by @alaskacarrie

Spend a few memorable days with your dog discovering the wonderful towns, beaches, scenic vistas and attractions along the majestic Oregon coast. When planning your journey, allow for plenty of time to explore the pet-friendly seaside town of Cannon Beach. Start your day with an early morning walk along the beach near Haystack Rock, a designated bird and marine sanctuary that rises 235 feet above the sand and sea. In the tide pools, you will see a variety of marine life, and the rock itself is home to cormorants, tufted puffins, and seagulls. Dogs are welcome to roam leash-free, provided they remain under voice command. After a stroll along the streets of downtown, spend an afternoon at Ecola State Park. Enjoy miles of hiking along the Oregon Coast Trail, following in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark. Day use admission to the park is $5 per vehicle, and dogs must remain on leash.

The oceanfront Surfsand Resort in Cannon Beach offers sweeping views of Haystack Rock and the Tillamook Head Lighthouse. Fido can sneak a biscuit from the cookie jar at check-in. The resort also provides a dog bed and basket filled with extra sheets, towels, placemat, and feeding bowls for their canine guests. There’s even a paw wash station near the beach!

Discover Oregon’s Natural Beauty

Cook, WA
“This is my mountain.” Photo by @kyojin_the_adventurer

Enjoy breathtaking scenic vistas, abundant wildlife, and a variety of terrains and ecosystems in the picturesque Columbia River Gorge area. Located on the border of Oregon and Washington, this canyon created by the Columbia River offers countless recreational opportunities, including the popular Dog Mountain Trail. The 6.9-mile modified loop trail with a 2,800-foot elevation gain is best suited to experienced hikers and well-conditioned dogs, but those reaching the summit are rewarded with amazing views of the gorge below, as well as Mount Saint Helens to the northwest and Mount Hood to the south. Plan a visit in May or June when the wildflowers are in peak bloom. For less experienced hikers, a visit to Multnomah Falls is in order. Park near the base of the falls for easy access to the 611-foot cascading waterfall, or hike up the paved trail to Benson Bridge for a closer view of the water.

Nestled on the banks of the Columbia River, the Best Western Plus Hood River Inn offers comfortable guest rooms with private balconies or pet-friendly patios. The property boasts an assortment of amenities, including a private beach, pool, and spa. Fido will appreciate the large grassy lawn and riverside walking path.

Ready for a Road Trip?

Photo by Linda Segerfeldt


If this Ruff Guide to Oregon preview left your dog drooling for more, we hope you check out our new book - Ruff Guide to the United States. Remember to use discount code BEAVER to save 50% on your copy. Happy Travels!

Have you been to dog-friendly Oregon? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!

Banner photo by iStock/toos.