Pet Friendly Options in Door County
Thinking of traveling with the family pet? Door County is a very pet friendly destination with many activities to do and even more places to stay.
We asked our Facebook fans what their favorite places to take their pooches. Morgan from Sturgeon Bay suggested you spend the day at Potawatomi State Park in Sturgeon Bay and stop in at Stove Dog Bakery for a treat. Another fan suggested chasing waves at Whitefish Dunes State Park just south of Jacksonport. Once you’ve tired of chasing the surf there, hike over to Cave Point to watch some of the best wave watching in Door County. The two parks are directly connected so plan on making a day of it.
My favorite spot to take my chesapeakes is Ridges Beach in Baileys Harbor. This massive sandy beach is the best place to go year round. In the summer, the water is shallow far out so you can play in the waves and not tire out your pup and in the winter, it is a great place to let your dogs run along the shore amongst the frozen ice shoves. Peninsula State Park allows dogs in most areas but the only spot to take your pup swimming is at the Tennison Bay canoe/kayak launch so make sure you stop there when touring our most popular State Park.
A walk down the main streets of any of the villages makes for a great afternoon walk. There are dog friendly restaurants in almost every town.
Baileys Harbor
Egg Harbor
- The Bridge Coffee House
- Double Delites
- Gomy’s Goodies
- The Bistro at Liberty Square
Ellison Bay
- Mink River Basin
Fish Creek
- Gibraltar Grille
- Not Licked Yet
- Wild Tomato Wood Fired Pizza
Sturgeon Bay
- Stove Dog Bakery
Sister Bay has a newly created Dog Park which offers a massive enclosed space for your dog to run in and meet new friends. Located outside of town adjacent to the Village Sports Complex off of Mill Rd, the dog park is free to use as long as you pick up after your furry friend.
The Shiloh Road Bark Park is minutes from Sturgeon Bay. Turn south on County Rd U off Highway 42/57; take the fork that is Division Road (on the right), pass the City waste department, park is on your right. This park is supported by Door County Humane Society.
The Frank E. Murphy Park lies on the shores of Green Bay south of Egg Harbor at 7119 Bay Shore Drive. The park is 14 acres of beach and shoreline with picnic and playground areas.
With over 70 pet friendly properties in Door County, you are sure to find one that suits your family needs and plans. Door County Lodging has a few properties that allow your furry family members.
Beachfront Inn in Baileys Harbor has over 100’ of Anclam Beach that your beloved pets can run without being leashed. Owners Tammy & Terry Bork have three dogs that call the resort home so your dog will have lots of playmates.
Country House Resort in Sister Bay lies high up on the bluff above downtown. Run with your dog in the green area across the street, along the hiking trails on the property or up and down the 1100 feet of private shoreline.
Four Seasons Barn House in Baileys Harbor is located on acres of beautiful country. Chloe the Lab loves having visitors and pestering Sierra & Phantom, the newly constructed barn’s resident horses.
Open Hearth Lodge in Sister Bay is very centrally located between Sister Bay and Ephraim and just minutes from Fred & Fuzzy’s waterfront dining on Pebble Beach.
Baileys Harbor Ridges Resort in Baileys Harbor is located just steps from the Ridges Beach which is one of the only pet friendly beaches.
Shallows Resort in Egg Harbor lies on the shores of Green Bay waters. Whether you are looking for a suite or a private home, Shallows has what you’re looking for.
Scofield North Cottages in Baileys Harbor is located just minutes from Anclam Beach and Lake Michigan waters.
Call ahead to make sure that the resort has available rooms because all rooms may not be pet friendly. Dogs are allowed in certain areas in the state parks although not on most beaches. If you have any questions, ask the front desk where you are staying. They will be more than happy to assist you.
