The Hows and Wheres of RVing with Dog
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, we have over 48 million dog-owning households, and over 76 million good-boys and good-girls. Here in Washington State over 42% of households have dogs. We are a pupper-loving state in a pupper-loving nation. And we want to vacation with our best friends right beside us!
RV’s make it so much easier to bring our dogs. It’s a familiar space in which they’re already comfortable. A little training time, and they feel right at home! Plus, knowing how we feel, many RV manufacturers have even begun including built-in pet food and water stations.
But there’s still a lot to prepare before you head out. As with hotels, you’ll need to call ahead to make sure your campsite is four-legged-friend-friendly. Some have trails where dogs are encouraged, some require leashes, and some have restrictions. The same goes for National and State Parks.
You should also make sure you have everything you need to keep your canine safe, too. Carrying a collapsible water bowl is a must on a hike. Leashes, harnesses, extra food, poop bags and even doggie backpacks can make your buddy part of the team. Make sure they are wearing tags and/or are microchipped. Getting a GPS enabled pet collar might be a good investment; in case of separation on the trail, it could be a lifesaver. And just as you might carry a small first-kit for yourself, check into adding anything you might need to treat small cuts and scrapes your furbaby might get.
Once you’re equipped, a fido-friendly site scheduled, and you’ve packed the camper with a selection of toys, you’re ready for the best vacation ever!
Here are a few amazing places that we can recommend!
Lake Pleasant RV Park
Don’t want to stray too far from home? Try out Lake Pleasant RV Park, a family-owned park only about an hour from Seattle. It features a wildlife habitat and a small lake filled with fish and waterfowl. All sites are within a short walking distance to the small lake, and many are on waterfront. There are wooded nature trails, a putting/chipping green, and even access to paved bike trails that lead to downtown Seattle.
But the best feature of this park is the quiet. If you want a weekend away from the noise and hustle, then you and your bestie should give this one a try.
Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park
Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, is one of the country’s most dog-friendly state parks. Part of the “Issaquah Alps” and over 1000 feet above sea-level, this is a more challenging trip. But worth it! 35 miles of trails wind through mature second-growth forests, streams and wetlands, cliffs, and caves.
The Campgrounds include 173 individual sites and 5 group sites. Amenities include water, flush toilets, trailer dump station, fire grates, tables, refuse and recycling cans, an amphitheater, and hiking trails. There are some RV length restrictions, so check first.
Whatever else, all the members of your family will enjoy exploring this rugged terrain. Even though leashes are required on the hiking trails, get ready to enjoy nature at its most wild.
Pine Village Campground
One of Washington States most popular destinations is the Bavarian-esque charmer: Leavenworth.
Pine Village Campground, is right there, near Lake Wenatchee. It’s been the #1 dog-friendly KOA for a long time, and it’s deserved. Dogs are welcomed everywhere, but especially at the new dog park, right on the grounds. Enjoy the year-round hiking, biking, skiing, and snowmobile tours in the winter. In the summer, make full use of Lake Wenatchee’s water recreation.
There’s also the nearby American Heritage & Cultural Center — perhaps not as interesting for your dog — but we love it.
Fort Wilderness Resort
Finally, there’s a special place you can take your dog camping: Disney World!
More specifically, we mean Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort near Lake Buena Vista in Florida.
Okay, this one is a little far from Seattle, but if you were dreaming of someday heading cross-country, this could be the dog-vacay of a lifetime! Disney’s Fort Wilderness is one of the most family-friendly RV parks in the county. And they have made sure dogs are part of the family.
The trails at Fort Wilderness are the perfect place to take your dog for their best walks ever. The dog parks give them a chance to explore leash-free and part of the pack! You may also love the dog welcome package that every pup receives upon check-in.
And how many dog-parents don’t want to say it: We’re Going to Disney World!
Have a great trip!
