13. St. James Social | Boutique Hotel | Bayfield, WI
12. Hygge House | Airbnb | Cable, WI
11. Camp Miller | Airbnb | Shawano, WI
10. Justin Trails Resort | Resort | Sparta, WI
9. Nekoos-A-Frame | Airbnb | Nekoosa, WI
8. Lulu’s Lodge | Airbnb | Danbury, WI
7. Camp Kettlewood | Luxury Campground | East Troy, WI
6. Camp Koie | Lake Home | Presque Isle, WI
5. Evergreen Escape | Airbnb | Athelstane, WI
4. Smiling Moose | Gresham Shores Resort - Lakeland Rentals | Arbor Vitae, WI
3. Northwoods Farmstead | Group Rental | Door County | Sister Bay, WI
2. Birchwood Point | Lake Home - Mercer Cabin Collective | Mercer, WI
1. Good Time Inn | Lake Home | Lake Tomahawk, WI
Our pups, Pabst and Leine, are professional road trippers at this point. We covered some serious ground in 2024 and stayed in so many amazing places–making this by far the most difficult piece I have ever written. I need to start by saying that all of these stays are absolutely amazing. This blog is listed in a ranked order simply because we are always asked about our “favorites.” In reality, we can have a good time anywhere we can walk/hike, play board games, and read a good book…which is pretty much everywhere! Nonetheless, all of these places offer different experiences and their “ranking” is just my opinion and based on our/our dogs’ preferences. I would recommend each and everyone of these stays!
This list just brushes the surface of our dog-friendly recommendations. If you want to see our list of 300+ dog-friendly business across Wisconsin, CHECK OUT OUR FREE MAP!
#13. ST. JAMES SOCIAL
Bayfield, WI
Boutique Hotel
St. James Social is a stunning new boutique hotel in downtown Bayfield that has all the cozy vibes you need! They have one dog-friendly suite available and eight rooms total. Hotel guests have access to a sauna and cold shower, which are lovely to unwind, and they even have views of Lake Superior! After the sauna, you can head up to the rooftop patio for more spectacular views of Bayfield and Lake Superior. Fuel up with coffee from the SJS guest coffee bar or head down to the Social for espresso and pastries. In the Social (open to the public and hotel guests), they offer yummy, ever-changing dinner options on the weekends and wood-fired pizza on some weekdays. We got to try the enchanting roasted bone marrow, sweet potato gnocchi, and pan seared duck—everything was so delicious! SJS also offers a tasty selection of wine and local beers and has lots of space to relax. Pack a game and enjoy the Social!
The honest truth is, this is my #1 stay recommendation in Bayfield, and Bayfield is one of my favorite destinations. It’s beautiful, in the best location, and everything I’ve had from the restaurant is amazing. But, if your pup joins you on your stay, you will miss some of the best parts (sitting in the Social and the sauna). Maybe save your stay at SJS for when you have a pet sitter and can escape for a romantic weekend away.
Nearby dog-friendly recommendations: Copper Crow Distillery (dogs allowed inside and on the patio), Mannypenny Bistro (covered patio), All Hands Sailing sailing excursions (our favorite thing ever, the whole fleet is dog-friendly), Fish Fry at Hoop’s Fish & Chips Dockside (fully outdoor restaurant). Hike Lost Creek Falls and Meyers Beach Sea Caves.
The fine print: 1 dog allowed. $75 pet fee.
Pros: Fabulous guest amenities: in house restaurant, sauna, and rooftop deck. Being located right downtown makes so many other local businesses walkable.
Cons: The sauna and restaurant are not dog-friendly. It’s not the most convenient to take your dog to the bathroom in any hotel. Not a ton of “potty spots” for your pups nearby.
#12. HYGGE HOUSE
Cable, WI
Airbnb | 6 guests, 3 bedrooms, 3 beds, 1 bathroom
In Danish, hygge (Hoo-guh) is described in many ways, but it’s most simply described as the Danish ritual of enjoying life’s simple pleasures. You can tell that the cabin is meant to be a place to enjoy life’s pleasures. The space is so cozy and there are so many charming details!
Hygge House has 3 bedrooms (2 upstairs and 1 off the living room). They are quaint and quite cozy! The living room is very open and has a gas fireplace, a record player, and a fun collection of records. The kitchen is the cutest little nook that had everything we needed! Upstairs has a fun pink bathroom. It’s only 2 minutes from town and was the perfect place for a relaxing weekend. Perfect for groups of 2-4, but does sleep up to 6.
We visited during some spring rain, but enjoyed dancing around to the record player, eating some yummy takeout, and hiking on the North Country Trail.
Nearby dog-friendly recommendations: The Rivers Eatery (patio & the best pizza), Lakewoods Resort (patio), and Velo Cafe (patio). Hike to Juniper Rock Overlook via the North Country Trail.
The fine print: From the Airbnb host: The Hygge House is dog friendly, and we ask that you care for your dog and any messes they may create. We do not require a security deposit, but you will be responsible for any damages during your stay. Though we have not had any troubles, when outdoors, be aware of the opportunity for bears and wolves, as well as birds, squirrels, and the like. The staircase and railings are exposed and should be noted when looking to stay at our cabin with children or pets. Most dogs do just fine on the stairs, but some are a little more hesitant.
Pros: It is ultimate coziness. I loved the fireplace. There’s a lovely front yard with a small trail for the pups to play.
Cons: Leine did not love the staircase being open. The bedrooms are very small and the dogs didn’t have room to get comfortable unless under the bed.
#11. CAMP MILLER
Shawano, WI
Vrbo | 8 guests, 2 bedrooms, 3 beds, 1 bathroom
One of my 2024 goals was to explore Northeastern Wisconsin. My first adventures in the area brought me to Shawano. I was just Leine and me, and we stayed at Camp Miller, a super cozy cabin on a quiet no-motor lake in Northeastern Wisconsin. We really enjoyed our stay and the comfortable Northwoods vibes!
There are two bedrooms, one full bed with a top bunk, and one with a king bed. The living space is lovely with a fireplace, games, TV, and comfy couches. There is a nice deck and backyard with a fire pit. The long backyard leads to a no-motor lake with a dock. They also have a neighboring rental property available if you have a bigger group, but that one, Camp Lee, is not dog-friendly.
Nearby dog-friendly recommendations: Stubborn Brothers Brewery (patio) and The Gourmet Cafe at Thornberry Cottage (bistro tables out front that you can dine at with your pup, but you must go in to order.)
The fine print: From the Vrbo host: max of 2 dogs & pet fee $25 total. Dogs must be leashed at all times. There are other dogs in the neighborhood, so we all need to respect each other's yard space :)
If you plan to spend much of your time away from your dogs, please choose to board them instead.
Pros: Waterfront, great for watching sunsets, super cozy, close to town, big yard for potty breaks.
Cons: I don’t really have any…it just wasn’t the most glamorous stay of the year.
#10. JUSTIN TRAILS RESORT
Sparta, WI
Resort
Justin Trails allows you to take your dog on a getaway without extreme rules or limitations. There are miles of walking trails that are wonderful for off-leash adventures. Your pup may stay with you in any of the suites or cabins with only a $45/day pet fee. If you camp, there is no additional fee for your dog. They have no breed or weight limits. They just ask that your pup is well-behaved and social. Your pup can join you everywhere, including at breakfast.
The resort offers many different lodging options and they’re all dog-friendly: luxury cabins, traditional b&b rooms, cozy cottages, and rustic campsites. We were in the Sunrise Cottage, which had two bedrooms with king size beds, a full bathroom, an indoor gas fireplace, a patio with an outdoor dining area, an outdoor fire pit, a kitchenette, and a dining table.
There is so much to do on the property: disc golf courses, feeding the llamas, off leash exploring on their many miles of hiking trails, and relaxing in the common area in the bottom level of the barn where you can find lounge and dining areas, foosball, a large smart TV, and ping pong.
Nearby dog-friendly recommendations: Alchemy Brewing (patio with fill menu), St. Mary’s Distillery (patio), and lots of stores in Sparta are dog-friendly. Hike right at the resort!
The fine print: From the resort: Dogs need to have current vaccinations and be dog sociable. When packing, bring your pets’ favorite food/water dishes, blanket, toys, extra leash, food and bed or crate. We expect that your dog is protected from kennel cough, etc., the same as if you boarded your dog at a kennel. Have your pet groomed before bringing him/her. No marking territory on shrubs. We have ponds on our property and a hose next to the Elegant Barn. We have pet towels specifically for your pets in a basket in The Lodge. Please keep your dog on a leash around the buildings. No matter how friendly, some folks are uncomfortable with any dog. Your pet may be unleashed away from cabins and buildings. Justin Trails Resort is best-enjoyed off-leash! The corn fields located near the yellow house and the woods near Paul Bunyan belong to our neighbor. Please do not go into their corn fields or woods. Please “pooper-scooper” pick up after your pet & deposit bags in the blue Southwest Sanitation dumpster near the white barn. Do not deposit poop bags in 5-gallon garbage cans around our disc golf courses.
Pros: Your dog can eat breakfast with you at the on site lodge. Off-leash areas on site. Llamas!
Cons: Lodging/cabins are close together.
#9. NEKOOS-A-FRAME
Nekoosa, WI
Airbnb | 3 guests, 2 bedroom, 3 beds, 1 bathroom
We had a very cozy weekend getaway to this 1970 renovated A-Frame cabin. It is beautifully decorated with a lot of thought put into every detail. This lovely cabin is tucked into a quiet neighborhood just steps away from Lake Sherwood.
This cabin is small but uses the space beautifully. It’s aesthetic and pretty and sometimes had me questioning if us and the pups should be there. There is a small bedroom on the main floor and the second is lofted. The couch in the living space also has a pullout bed. There is an indoor wood stove for cozy winter nights. There is no TV, but the space is beautiful and has a lovely vibe for board games or a cozy night in. Outside you’ll find a large porch and a small woodsy yard. The kitchen is very cute and has everything you need to cook. There is a lovely dining area complete with white fluffy chairs!
Nearby dog-friendly recommendations: Upnorth Brewing (dogs welcome in taproom or on the patio)
The fine print: Pets not allowed on furniture or beds.
Pros: It is so aesthetic!
Cons: The stairs to the loft are open and Lenie did not like that. The bed & bedroom on the main floor are small. Dogs are not allowed on the couch.
#8. LULU’S LODGE
Danbury, WI
Airbnb | 8 guests, 2 bedrooms, 3 beds, 1.5 bathrooms
A weekend of cabin vibes, pudgy pies, and being outside! We highly recommend Lulu’s Lodge for a long weekend recharge. We loved the large yard, cozy living room with indoor fireplace, outdoor dining spaces, lofted bedroom, reading in the hammock, and clawfoot tub!
This log cabin with its beautiful stone fireplace is nestled in on five wooded acres. Tucked away in the woods, you can enjoy s'mores inside or out, cook a meal in the full kitchen, or lounge on the porch and patio. There is a bedroom on the main floor and a lofted bedroom and half bath upstairs. There is a 3 season porch that is perfect for breakfast or board games. The real draw to this cabin is the beautiful outdoor space.
Nearby dog-friendly recommendations: The Crow Bar (patio). Hike the Straight Lake Segment of the Ice Age Trail.
The fine print: From the airbnb host: Pets are welcome but you must disclose all your pets to us or you risk paying more in damages and cleaning fees if our cleaners find any signs of pets after your stay. We accommodate up to 2 pets per stay IF you agree to the pet rules (you will receive these upon booking after disclosing your types of pets and how many.) The pet fee is $80 for 2 nights with up to 2 pets. Airbnb will automatically add this to your booking total. IF YOU ARE STAYING MORE THAN 2 NIGHTS, WE WILL ADD AN ADDITIONAL FEE OF $30/NIGHT PER PET. If you would like to request bringing more than 2 pets, please message us and we will discuss it and add additional fees accordingly, at the rate of $30/per night per additional pet (beyond 2). We are happy when our guests can bring their furry friends, but PLEASE be respectful of our pet rules so it can be a win-win situation! Pet Rules: No dogs on furniture, beds, etc. Leash dogs while outside to protect neighbors, other dogs, and wildlife. Crate your pup/s when they’re alone indoors. Good housekeeping. Wipe off wet/muddy paws; use an old towel to dry your dog before coming in after a swim, (please bring your own towels for your dog) Pick up dog waste, bag/tie and place in the bin outside.
Pros: Beautiful inside and out. Feels private and tucked away.
Cons: Dogs cannot go on the couch.
#7. CAMP KETTLEWOOD
East Troy, WI
The coziest glamping can be found at Camp Kettlewood! This beautiful 80 acre property was formerly a Girl Scout camp and is tucked into a serene part of southeastern Wisconsin. It’s home to vintage trailers, platform tents, and (my favorite!) antique scout cabins. The sites are spread out and give you plenty of room and a secluded feel. There are a few awesome group sites perfect for getting a group of friends together.
I have stayed at The Briar Patch, Tall Timber, and Deer Run scout cabins. These cabins used to be at a different Girl Scout Camp just up the road, but have been restored and beautifully decorated with antique camping decor. The cabins are dog-friendly and just one room. There is AC, the comfiest beds, charming decor, and a dining table. There are bath houses with the best outdoor showers (you have not lived until you’ve taken an outdoor shower on a summer night!) and flush toilets.
This is one of my favorite places! You’ll feel transported to summer camp while you fall asleep listening to the critters, get cleaned up in amazing outdoor showers, or lay in the hammocks.
Nearby dog-friendly recommendations: Gus’s Drive-In (dog-friendly patio, but you must go in to order), East Troy Brewery (patio w/ full menu), and The Hive Taproom (dogs allowed inside). Hike at the Scuppernong or Blackhawk Ice Age Trail Segments.
The fine print: From the host: Guests are allowed one dog per site (or two dogs per group site.) Guests bringing their dog(s) are required to select the $45 'additional pet fee' for each dog at checkout during online booking. This is a safe, family friendly campground, so if you describe your dog as "not good with other dogs" or "not good with kids" please do not bring it along. Dogs are not to be left unattended inside the camping units at any time. Dogs are not allowed on the bedding. We suggest bringing a dog bed or another blanket to lay over the bedding to help keep dirt and pet hair to a minimum. Please also be sure to clean up any pet waste on the campsite and trails. An additional cleaning fee may be assessed for any violations.
Pros: You are tucked away into beautiful old growth forests. An outdoor shower on a summer night is the best thing ever. On site trails for walking. The coziest summer camp vibes that you need to experience!
Cons: You need to walk to the bathhouse and you can’t park at your site.
#6. CAMP KOIE
Presque Isle, WI
Airbnb | 5 guests, 2 bedrooms, 4 beds, 1 bathroom
Deep in Vilas County, you’ll find the cozy Camp Koie cabin on the shores of Oxbow Lake. This 2 bedroom cabin is spacious and one of the most dog-friendly places we’ve stayed!
The outside is the picturesque Northwoods destination we all look for. There’s a rowboat, kayaks, dock, paddle board, outdoor dining area, fireplace, and grill—all ready for you to enjoy! The inside has a large living space with a large sectional couch. They supply doggy blankets to put down so your pup can join you on the couch. One bedroom is small with just a bed and the over is quite spacious with a queen bed and a bunk.
Camp Koie is located at the tip of a peninsula, ensuring privacy both at the firepit area and along the lakefront, including the dock. You won't see any neighbors in these spots, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude & relaxation and connecting with the natural world.
Book directly with Superior Getaways and use TWC20 for 20% off your stay. We found our time here to be so peaceful and would love to go back!
Nearby dog-friendly recommendations: Ice Shanty Drive-In (order at the stand & picnic tables– pups welcome at both), Aqualand Ale House (patio), Manny’s Packside (patio), & Dixie’s Coffee House (patio).
The fine print: From the Airbnb host: We are happy to be a dog-friendly home, but all dogs must be disclosed at booking or brought to our attention before check in. Any unauthorized pets will result in a $350 fee.
Cons: I can’t think of any!
#5. EVERGREEN ESCAPE
Athelstane, WI
Airbnb | 6 guest, 2 bedrooms, 4 beds, 2 bathrooms
In efforts to explore another section of Northeastern Wisconsin, I stayed at Evergreen Escape! It’s a great location to chase waterfalls, explore parts of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, hike at Governor Nelson State Park, and embrace being in the trees!
The attention to detail in this rental really gives it a luxurious vibe. The guest bedroom has two twin beds and the main bathroom has heated floors, shampoo, conditioner, and body soap. The living room has a massive Smart TV and a pull-out couch. There is a wood stove to keep you cozy and all sorts of little luxuries. The kitchen has all the essential kitchen tools for you to cook your own meal and dine in the most amazing outdoor dining area located on the covered deck. In the main bedroom, you will find a king-size bed and another Smart TV.
I really loved this space! Everything is so nice and up-to-date but doesn’t feel out of place in the Northwoods. I loved the location and the stunning forest in the backyard.
Nearby dog-friendly recommendations: Tony’s Dockside (patio), Northern D’Lites (patio), and The Big Dipper (patio). Hike the nearby waterfalls and Governor Thompson State Park.
The fine print: I didn’t see anything on Airbnb or in their welcome guide.
Pros: It is so beautiful and aesthetic and tucked into a stunning forest. I loved their outdoor dining area/covered deck.
Cons: I don't have any!
#4. SMILING MOOSE | Lakeland Rentals
Arbor Vitae, WI
What could be better than a lakefront cabin in the Northwoods?! We stayed at Gresham Shores, a resort with several cabins on Lower Gresham Lake and an on site restaurant. We were in cabin #6, Smiling Moose. This 3 bedroom cabin was perfect for our long weekend getaway! We loved the cozy old school vibes–It had the nostalgic Northwoods feel that I love so much. Not only can you comfortably sleep 6 guests, but it’s also dog-friendly! There’s a large screen porch for bug-free outdoor dining and board games, full kitchen, large living area, nice fire pit, dock, and rowboat, as well as lake access.
We definitely bounced around and ate and drank our way through the local establishments, but we also made plenty of time to enjoy this great property. One morning, I woke up to the sounds of the birds, made a cup of hot chocolate, and made my way down to the dock to watch the sunrise. I was blown away by a beautiful orange sunrise over the treeline! After that, I made my way to our screen porch to enjoy a slow morning reading while Hayden got to sleep in. Being so cozy made it so easy to be unplugged and just be present–something I can struggle with outside of our Up North stays.
Smiling Moose is just one of Lakeland Rental Managements' many rentals! They have beautiful rentals all over the Northwoods ready for your vacations.
Nearby dog-friendly recommendations: Slo’s Pub (patio), Rocky Reef Brewing (dogs welcome in taproom), Northfork Fin & Filet (patio), & Little Brown Jug (patio).
The fine print: None that we know of.
Pros: It’s lakefront, has a walkable restaurant/bar nearby, a quiet area, and not too far from towns. I loved the screened in sun porch!
Cons: Smaller rooms/beds.
#3. NORTHWOODS FARMSTEAD | Wisco Hosts
Sister Bay, Door County
This beautiful dog-friendly, 3 bedroom/3 bathroom rental lies right in the heart of Door County! This is one of the multiple dog-friendly and fully stocked rentals Wisco Hosts offers in the iconic peninsula.
This spring, we enjoyed this massive rental that is perfect for a large group or family, and we were so happy to enjoy it with some of our friends and our pup. The massive kitchen is fully stocked and has an awesome coffee bar! The bedrooms are so cozy and the living spaces had room to lounge, a dog bed, and lots of blankets. The yard was large and great for morning fetch with the pup. There was a great firepit, outdoor bar, and ping pong table that made for some fun nights in!
We loved that Northwoods Farmstead was only a 2 minute drive to Downtown Sister Bay. Another awesome perk? No lengthy check out chores! They tell you to just pack your bags and they’ll take care of the rest. How awesome is that?!
Nearby dog-friendly recommendations: Peach Barn (dog-friendly taproom & patio), Thyme Restaurant (patio), and Door County Creamery (patio, but you must go in to order–they have the best sandwiches). Hike at Newport and Peninsula State Parks.
The fine print: From the host: Dogs must be approved in writing by the Owners when booking, and may be subject to an additional fee. No more than two dogs will be allowed per reservation. Tenant agrees that that all pets will be crated when left unsupervised at the property, dog waste will be picked up and properly disposed of, Tenants will keep pets off the beds, as well as always leashed when outside, per Village of Sister Bay regulations. If any damage is caused by pets brought into the property, the Tenant will be solely responsible for costs to repair this damage. Tenants may be cited or fined by the Village or immediately evicted by the Property Owner or Resident Agent, in addition to any other remedies available at law, for violating these requirements. Violating this rule may result in an extra charge to the guest(s). Additionally, it is understood by Tenant that there are no emergency services for dogs immediately nearby, as the closest emergency vet clinic that sees dogs is in Green Bay. Cats are not allowed on the Property.
Per section 50.41 of the Village of Sister Bay's Municipal Code, Tenant agrees to dispose of dog waste in the following manner:
Sec. 50.41(d): "Pet manure from any animal classified as a household pet must be placed in a plastic garbage bag and tied securely and placed in a container."
Pros: It’s in Door County, has a big yard, very modern and nice, great for groups.
Cons: The only con is that it is near a busy street. Nothing concerning, but not the best for taking the dog for a walk right from the house.
#2. BIRCHWOOD POINT | Mercer Cabin Collective
Mercer, WI
In February, we stayed at a new rental from Mercer Cabin Collective. Tucked into a private spot on Wilson Lake lies Birchwood Point, an impressive dog-friendly lakefront cottage. With amazing lake views from all sides, the layout of this property makes you feel cozily tucked away. You enter through the screened porch that has a comfortable lounge area and picnic table. (In the warmer months, I would love to dine out here!) Once inside, you’ll find two bedrooms, a welcoming living room with a fireplace, the kitchen of my dreams, a full bath, laundry room, and charming details that will impress every guest. They have truly thought of everything in this cabin–The kitchen is fully stocked and there are lots of board games, cozy blankets, and beautiful views from the living spaces.
Outside, a walk down to the lake brings you to the private dock (where you can keep your boat during your stay in the summer), a really nice fire pit to sit around to make s’mores and pudgy pies, plenty of room for the pups to play, and a private parking area.
We loved this cottage! We loved lounging in the living room with the fireplace warming us. We had a fire every single day we were there and made so many s’mores! What could be cozier than indoor s’mores in the middle of winter in Wisconsin?! I love to cook and came prepared to cook us a few nice meals during our five night stay. The kitchen was stunning. It really was the kitchen of my dreams, and as I cooked at the massive island, I got to enjoy the beautiful lake views. The kitchen was well stocked and had really nice supplies for us to use. I highly recommend a stay at Birchwood Point to anyone who wants to escape to the Northwoods!
Nearby dog-friendly recommendations: Some Nerve Brewing (dogs welcome in the taproom) and The Pines Restaurant (patio).
The fine print: We do allow housebroken pets in the cabins at owner’s discretion. We do charge an additional $5 per day per pet to cover the additional cleaning time. Please do not allow pets on the furniture.
Pros: Stunning in any season, lakefront, indoor fireplace, big yard, screened in porch.
Cons: I have none!
#1. GOOD TIME INN
Lake Tomahawk, WI
Airbnb | 6 guests, 3 bedrooms, 6 beds, 2 bathrooms
Good Time Inn is my dream home. This stunning 3 bedroom lake home is tucked into the woods and is the perfect blend of modern amenities and nostalgic Northwoods vibes. You can relax on the shores of Horsehead Lake and are just a short drive from the town of Lake Tomahawk.
The primary bedroom is spacious for both us and the pups. It has a gas fireplace, full bathroom with jetted tub, and off-suite patio. There are two additional bedrooms, and the living spaces are also lovely. You can enjoy floor to ceiling views from the all glass enclosed sunroom. I still day dream of relaxing in this unique room! There is also a very cozy traditional living room, rec room, full kitchen with everything you need, and lake views from pretty much everywhere but the bedrooms.Outside, there’s a large grassy yard, built-in fireplace, outdoor dining area, dock with bistro tables, and gazebo.
In addition to being the perfect place to relax, it’is also close to Minocqua and many of the area's attractions and trails. Good Time Inn is seriously my dream Northwoods getaway, and I can’t recommend it enough!
Nearby dog-friendly recommendations: Lake Tom Tap House (patio), Rocky Reef Brewing (dogs welcome in taphouse), & Hoagie Doggies (order at stand & picnic tables for dining– dogs welcome for both and they give doggy cones).
The fine print: 4 dogs are welcome in this home. No other animals are allowed without specific Vacasa approval.
Pros: It is literally perfect. Lakefront, amazing primary bedroom/bathroom, large yard, dock, outdoor dining area.
Cons: I have none.
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