Tranquility can be found even in the most hectic of times if you and Fido know where to look. How about unearthing a desert retreat lightyears from the nearest canine, branching out to a treehouse vacation, or going back to basics at an off-grid rental under the stars? These unique pet-friendly getaways offer a place to take minds and bodies far from the commotion of everyday life.
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Desert Dwellings
The desert is a blissfully barren place. Every time you visit, you’ll discover something different. These desert homes welcome you and your dog with open arms and serene landscapes.
The Joshua Tree Green Haus
Yucca Valley, CA - Joshua Tree National Park is known for quiet dusty trails around prickly cacti. Unfortunately, dogs are only welcome to explore picnic areas, roads and campgrounds. The Joshua Tree Green Haus gives you the chance to enjoy the beauty of the park without stepping a paw inside. Lay back in the sunken outdoor tub with Fido on the ledge beside you and enjoy unencumbered views of the park, Mt. San Jacinto and Mt. San Gorgonio.
Nightly rates start at $225.
Tiny House Cozy Cabin
Fredonia, AZ - Tiny House Cozy Cabin invites guests to pack a doggy bag and leave their troubles at home. Situated next to a staggering backdrop of red cliffs, this homesteader’s cabin is located on a 400-acre ranch. During the day, introduce your pup to the resident farm animals on a stroll on the trails and dirt paths of this desert escape.
Nightly rates start at $79.
Earth Houses
Built into the ground, underneath or surrounded by it, earth houses utilize the insulating properties of soil and blend seamlessly into any landscape.
Creekside Hideaway
Jefferson City, MO - Creekside Hideaway is located in the foothills of the Elkhorn Mountains. Tolkienites will be drawn to this earth home like Bilbo to the One Ring, but even if you’re not a fan of fantasy fiction, you’ll be blown away by the magical touches inside. Wake up in one of four sleeping nooks or send Fido sniffing for the secret bedroom. The real gem is the shower, which you enter through an indoor tree trunk.
Nightly rates start at $200.
Brand New Studio Earthship
Taos, New Mexico - This studio Earthship was featured on Discovery Channel’s “Building Off The Grid.” However, a stay at this architectural gem is far from “ruff-ing” it. The amazing house has been three years in the making; it catches its own rainwater, generates its own electricity, and stays at a steady 72 degrees year-round without the use of any fuel. Enjoy desert solitude in a home that’s completely at one with its surroundings.
Nightly rates start at $125.
Treehouses
Fido can pack his trunk and get closer to the squirrels than ever before on a unique above-ground vacation. When he lays eyes on these treehouse rentals, he’ll be begging to come “bark” for more.
Redwood Treehouse Santa Cruz Mtns.
Watsonville, CA - It’s easy to stay in touch with your roots when they’re sprouting through the floorboards. This Redwood Treehouse has not one, but two live trees growing right through the main living area and the bathroom. Walk through the woods, soak in the hot tub and get high off the ground in a mighty redwood.
Nightly rates start at $139.
Treehouse Adventure
Brea, CA - Treehouse Adventure is designed to appeal to everybody’s inner child. Sick of walking down the stairs? Don’t worry, this place has a bright yellow slide for a quick descent from the tree. Don’t let anybody up unless they know the password, right Fido?
Nightly rates start at $109.
Waterfront Oases
Wake up to the sound of water and wildlife at a hidden property on the banks of a river or lake.
Enchanting Riverfront Retreat
Blowing Rock, NC - Recharge your batteries at this enchanting riverfront retreat in Blowing Rock. First, make the five-minute trek into Boone for your essentials, before bolting to your home away from home by the river. Spend your vacation paddling, swimming and fishing just beyond the backdoor.
Nightly rates start at $100.
Private Lakefront Retreat
Whitwell, TN - Whether he’s dipping his paws in the crystal blue water from his private dock or listening to tales around the campfire when the sun sets, this private lakefront retreat is a refreshing place for the dog who finds comfort in the sights and sounds of lakeside living.
Nightly rates start at $275.
Downsizing in Style
If you believe good things come in small packages, these unique properties are perfectly suited to getting away from it all with your pooch by your side.
Shipping Container
Dover, OH - This oasis is tucked into the woods and hills along the Tuscarawas River. When you’re chilling in the charming living space, you might forget that the home is constructed from a shipping container. Drive up the winding pathway to this undisturbed and quirky vacation rental, where you can walk Fido around the woodland trails surrounding the property.
Nightly rates start at $117.
Snow Cross Tiny Home
Red Cliff, CO - Downsizing with your dog has never been easier, but if you want a taste of tiny home living take a trip to Snow Cross Tiny Home. Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains within 30 acres of national forest land, this solar-powered miniature abode has plenty to keep you occupied. Play a game of volleyball on the astroturf, enjoy a blazing fire in the evening, and wile away the time admiring the vistas with your best friend.
Nightly rates start at $138.
For other getaways that take you and Fido off the beaten path, check out our roundup of pet-friendly cabins, off-grid Airbnbs and yurts.