Need an adventure but don’t want to get away solo? Don’t wait for a plus one to take time off work, dog owners are almost guaranteed to have more fun together without another human. Think about it. Everything you do is fun to a dog whether playing hide and seek behind a tree or a couch and most important – they never complain.
A growing number of adventure-travel outfitters are offering bonding trips for people and their dogs. Different than pet-friendly hotels, these trips see your furry BFF as more than a carry-on but part of the experience. Here, some ruff getaways for one-on-one quality time – from off-leash hikes and paw painting to obstacle courses and dock diving, that you and your pet are sure to enjoy.
MASSACHUSETTS AND GEORGIACamp Unleashed
campunleashedllc@gmail.com
COST: $840 to $1099 per person during four-day weekends
To see an unleashed dog free to run and let loose in nature – no fences or barbed wires holding your pet back — is one of the purest joys a parent can witness. Founded by a former Manhattanite, the New England camp is set on 1,300 forested acres in the Berkshires alongside a private 100-acre lake three hours from New York City and Boston and stays true to its name with morning and afternoon guided hikes at both gentle and vigorous levels and at least one long hike (2 hours) with a picnic lunch. No obedience classes. Don’t think your dog will play well with others? They have endless workshops to fix that. Tune into the owner’s “The Dog Connection” podcast.
WISCONSINCamp Dogwood
COST: From $855, including 3-human meals and accommodations.
(312) 215 – 1114
Owners and dogs spend four days exploring 900-acres of forested land, trails and beachfront about 20 hours outside of Chicago. A typical day includes 25-30 dog-centric activities, including sessions with a dog photographer for techniques to viral-worthy Instagram shots to “What You Say?” Reading Your Dog’s Body Language. Participants bunk in rustic cabins or in their own tents.
VERMONTGone to the Dogs
(630) 659-8771
COST: $1,325 to $1,725 per person for one week.
Fans of the Westminster Kennel Dog Show love the agility and obedience lessons where the motto is “you can teach old dogs new tricks.” Want to play frisbee in the city park with envious onlookers? Want to design your own lease? Take a class. The camp director is a World Class Disc Dog Handler. Located in the charming town of Stowe at the foot of Vermont’s highest peak, this 8-acre getaway camp is said to be the longest running dog camps in the U.S. Puppies welcome. If you are not a fan of dorm-style housing, off-site accommodations offered at Mountaineer Inn.
NEW YORKGlen Highland Farm
(607)263-5415
COST: From $140 to $360 per night depending on accommodations and camp.
This nonprofit is dedicated throughout the year to the rescue of border collies and border collie mixes. The 175-acres of rolling countryside and hemlock forest is now taking reservations for various overnight camps that run from May thru September, including Canine Country Camp, Canine Country Getaway and Canine Discovery, which provide financial support to the rescue mission. A favorite is the unique four day Inner Dog group, where owners sharpen their understanding of how your dog “reads your energy.” It is no surprise your four-legged friend knows when you are sad, mad and happy. Develop your chi force and the innate ability to intuitively communicate and “hear your dog.” The range of accommodations includes RVs (think smartly designed tiny house), cottage, cabin, and tent.
