Redesignated from a national river in 2020, New River Gorge National Park is one of the newest parks in the system, and with leashed dogs allowed on all hiking trails, it’s also one of the most pet friendly. Located less than three miles from the park’s main attraction, New River Gorge Bridge, and a short drive from the epic Endless Wall Trail, Fern Creek Cabins in Hico is a great place to rest up between hikes. This cozy cabin sits on 40 private acres on the edge of a forest, so Fido will feel like he hasn’t even left the park. Well-behaved pups with good recall can play off leash in the large backyard, keep you company on the porch while you grill up dinner or soak in the hot tub, and join the pack for an evening around the fire pit.

Bring Fido on a relaxing vacation to Grand Teton National Park and experience the beauty of Wyoming and one of the nation’s most recognizable mountain ranges. Within the park, your pup can join you on several scenic drives and at overlooks with incredible views of the Tetons, the Snake River and Jenny Lake, and you’re likely to spot wildlife like elk, moose and bison. Staying at Fireside Resort in nearby Wilson makes it easy to access the park. You’ll love soaking in the hot tub, your pooch will enjoy warming his paws around the outdoor fire pit or the indoor fireplace, and you’ll both delight in having dinner on the deck. This cozy cabin nestled in the woods is also near other dog-friendly activities like Black Dog Raft Company, the National Elk Refuge, and hiking in Bridger-Teton National Forest.

Acadia National Park is one of the most visited pet-friendly national parks in the U.S. Four-legged sightseers are free to stroll along miles of pet-friendly beaches, hike on over 158 miles of trails, and climb to the top of Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the North Atlantic seaboard. Book a stay at Little Brook Cottage in Tremont and your pooch will never be too far from the fun. Described as “a little fairytale house,” this tiny home near Bass Harbor Lighthouse on Mount Desert Island is sure to provide a happy ending after a long day of roaming around the national park. Fido can join you for a cuddle in the cozy living room, or listen to you tell stories around the fire pit in the backyard.

When traveling through South Dakota’s Black Hills with Fido, make a stop at Wind Cave National Park to explore the Prairie Vista and Elk Mountain Campground Trails. Trailside signage provides information as you work your way through diverse prairie and forest ecosystems. Stay just outside the park at Bryer’s Bungalow, a one-bedroom cabin on over 12 acres of shared land you and your pup are welcome to explore. Staying close to the park will allow you to hit the trails at either dawn or dusk for a chance to spot elk and other wildlife. In the evening, kick back around the table-top fire or fire pit, or grill a delicious meal in the outdoor seating area. This quiet and cozy mesa is also close to dog-friendly Custer State Park and Crazy Horse Memorial, and only an hour from Badlands National Park.

Yosemite National Park in The Golden State’s Sierra Nevada Mountains is one of the most picturesque national parks in the country. Although dogs are not allowed on many trails, the most recognizable scenic spots - Tunnel View, Glacier Point, and Yosemite Falls - are all viewable with your leashed pooch via paved roads and sidewalks. Fido is also welcome on Bridal Veil Fall Trail where you can view the famous 617-foot waterfall. If you want to get a feel for the stunning surroundings of Yosemite without the restrictions of the park, reserve Wawona Cabin in North Wawona. Surrounded by redwoods, this striking home provides a place to unwind after an adventurous day. Fire up the barbeque grill on the expansive deck, wander down to the river for a paddle with your pup, or lounge together in the open-plan living area.

Pet travelers may head straight to the most popular national parks, but there’s merit for your mutt in searching out the quieter destinations on the list. Cuyahoga Valley National Park allows dogs on more than 110 miles of hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, the Cuyahoga River, and panoramic views of the sprawling valley beyond. If you’re looking for a place on the water nearby, this cozy lakefront oasis in Portage Lakes fits the bill. Its interior has been fully updated with an open-plan kitchen and living area with water views, but Fido will want to spend most of his time outside. Both front and back yards are fully fenced, so he can play off leash. Head down to the large dock area to explore the lake on the kayaks provided and stick around for cocktails under the lights in the evening.

Hot Springs National Park is home to 26 miles of pet-friendly trails that highlight epic rock formations, swaths of wildflowers during peak season, and natural beauty in The Natural State. If you’re feeling thirsty after scouting the highlights with your hound, visit the only U.S. brewery inside a national park, Superior Bathhouse Brewery. Then, head back to a delightful getaway in Hot Springs to rest up before day two at “The American Spa.” Inside this affordable home, you’ll find hardwood floors and a barbeque grill on the deck surrounded by forest. The national park isn’t the only pet-friendly attraction in town. Give your pooch’s paws a rest and rent a golf cart to tour 210 acres of Garvan Woodland Gardens.

Are you planning a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains with your dog? The most-visited national park in the country attracts millions of tourists every year, including those on four legs. Great Smoky Mountains National Park welcomes pups at paved overlooks and picnic areas and offers two short dog-friendly trails: Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail. After a day of exploring, relax for the evening at Hello Smokys in Gatlinburg. This beautifully renovated home has stunning mountain views from two expansive decks where Fido can sprawl out and rest, and you can enjoy a soak in the hot tub. When you head inside, turn on the huge fireplace and plan your next adventure. For a more pet-friendly alternative to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visit the neighboring Nantahala National Forest.