BringFido's Ruff Guide to West Virginia

Posted by Jason Halliburton

Thinking of wandering with your Weimaraner on a trip to West Virginia? 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 Mountain 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 MOUNTAIN.

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

Discover a Beautiful Island on the River

Parkersburg, WV
"Is this mansion pet-friendly?" Photo by @rudy_n_luna

Escape to Blennerhassett Island State Park for a special day out with your pup. Located in the middle of the Ohio River on the border between West Virginia and Ohio, the park is home to numerous trails, manicured grounds, and a reconstructed Palladian mansion that offers visitors a historical glimpse at colonial plantation life. To reach the island, head to Point Park in downtown Parkersburg and climb aboard the Island Belle sternwheeler for a short 20-minute riverboat journey. Upon arrival, stretch Fido’s legs on a self-guided walking tour. Along the way, you will see volunteers in period costume, as well as horse-drawn covered wagons carting visitors around the island.

Located just a few blocks from the ferry, The Blennerhassett Hotel is your home for the night. This Gaslight Era hotel greets Fido with complimentary dog treats in the lobby, as well as food bowls and waste bags. After getting settled in your room, explore charming downtown Parkersburg and stop for dinner at the dog-friendly Parkersburg Brewing Co.

Go on a Bone-Chilling Adventure With Fido

Weston, WV
“These guys aren’t patient with their patients!” Photo by @morganmastiff

You’ll be glad to have Fido by your side as you take a spine-chilling tour of the historic Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum in Weston. A working facility from 1864 to 1994, the asylum was intended as a sanctuary for those suffering from mental illness. However, ever-changing definitions of ‘humane treatment’ led to a number of experimental procedures being performed here over the years. A costumed guide will tell you all about them as she escorts your group around the expansive building. Your well-behaved, leashed pooch is welcome to join you on the daytime History & Heritage Tour.

Located on the shores of Stonewall Jackson Lake, Stonewall Resort is a charming Adirondack-style lodge in Roanoke. Enjoy spectacular lake, mountain, or golf course views as you relax in your oversized room, or head outdoors to explore 1,900 acres of woodlands with your pooch. The surrounding state park has 16 miles of dog-friendly hiking trails, and kayak rentals are available.

Enjoy Endless Views at New River Gorge

Fayetteville, WV
Endless walks on the Endless Wall Trail. Photo by @rosiedoodle_dog

Uncover a slice of West Virginia’s history at the gorgeous Babcock State Park. You and your pooch are invited to take photos at Glade Creek Grist Mill, one of the most famous attractions in the state. Although it looks ancient, the mill was actually constructed in 1976 to pay homage to the hundreds of mills that were once the backbone of West Virginia’s industry. Afterwards, head to another iconic spot, the Endless Wall Trail in the New River Gorge. This easy pathway is roughly 2.5 miles in length and leads to stunning views of the New River, which meanders almost 1,000 feet below. Finish off your adventure on the patio at The Freefolk Brewery in nearby Fayetteville.

Spend the night in comfortable surroundings with easy access to an abundance of outdoor activities at Quality Inn New River Gorge.

Ready for a Road Trip?

Photo by Linda Segerfeldt


If this Ruff Guide to West Virginia 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 MOUNTAIN to save 50% on your copy. Happy Travels!

What are your favorite dog-friendly things to do in West Virginia? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!

Banner photo by @ezra_the_jedi_corgi.