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Dog Friendly Shenandoah National Park & Vicinity

Updated 03/26/2024 – In my never-ending search for dog friendly places to go and things to do with my family, I recently came across Shenandoah National Park. Shenandoah National Park has plenty of dog friendly activities, both inside the park and the surrounding areas.

Shenandoah National Park, which is located in north-west Virginia, is one of the few national parks on the east coast of the United States. Established on December 26, 1935, it consists of 194,000-acres of mountains, rivers, waterfalls, forest and fields.

A highlight of Shenandoah National Park is the two-lane, 105-mile long Skyline Drive that runs along the spine of the northern Blue Ridge Mountains. This winding road offers breath-taking views and Instagram worthy photos at its 75 park overlooks.

If you’re looking to visit Shenandoah as part of a road-trip, the Blue Ridge Parkway meets up with the Skyline Drive at the Rockfish Mountain Gap. The parkway will then bring you through Virginia, into Asheville, North Carolina (also dog friendly) and onto the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee.

However, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not very dog friendly. Dogs are restricted to only two short off-road trails in the park.

Dog Friendly Guide to Shenandoah National Park Title Pic with photos of Shenandoah mountains, waterfalls and spring flowers

What can I do with a dog in Shenandoah National Park?

Shenandoah National Park is one of the few national parks that allows dogs on most of its 500 miles of trails. Dog friendly trails lead you to expansive vistas, breathtaking waterfalls or large meadows.

When you are hungry, stop at the full service Spottswood Dining Hall and enjoy dinner on their pet friendly terrace. They even have a doggy menu. At night, you and your pup can gaze up at the stars in Big Meadow.

For more details on these activities and more keep reading.

If you are looking for more dog friendly national parks, Acadia National Park in Maine is another very dog friendly park. Acadia has less dog related restrictions, but even here there are some trails that dogs are not allowed on.

First time traveling with your dog?

If you have never traveled with a dog before, you might not know where to start or what to bring. To help you, we have put together a couple of posts with our best tips for traveling with a dog and also tips on hotel stays with a dog.


Shenandoah National Park - North Entrance sign
Shenandoah National Park – North Entrance

Shenandoah National Park Entrances

The Shenandoah National Park is over 70 miles long. You can enter the park at any of its four park entrances that are spread through-out the park.

There is only one main road that runs through the park. This is the famous Skyline Drive which is 105-miles long. It can take 3 of more hours to drive from end to end.

Which entrance you use will depend on where you are coming from and where you are staying. To make it easier for you to decide we have listed the entrance and closest cities.

North Entrance

Also known as the Front Royal Entrance since it is located in Front Royal, Virginia just off-of Route 340 (Stonewall Jackson Highway). This entrance is the closest one for people coming from Washington D.C., Maryland, Pennsylvania and areas further north.

It is also the most used entrance so expect delays when going during the peak season.

Address: 21073 Skyline Drive, Front Royal, Virginia 22630

Thornton Gap Entrance

This entrance is located in the middle of the park. It’s the best option if you are staying in Luray, Virginia or Sperryville, Virginia. You will find the entrance just off-of Highway 211 (also called Lee Highway).

Address: 31339 Skyline Drive, Luray, Virginia 22835

Swift Run Gap Entrance

The Swift Run Gap Entrance is the closest entrance to Harrisonburg, Virginia. This entrance is off-of US 33. If you are coming from Harrisonburg, the park entrance sign is a bit past the entrance so watch the highways signs to know when to turn.

Address: 22591 Spotswood Trail, Elkton, Virginia 22827

directional sign for where Skyline Drive becomes the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Where Skyline Drive becomes the Blue Ridge Parkway.

South Entrance

This entrance is located at the Rockfish Gap a few miles east of Waynesboro, Virginia off-of Highway 250. I find this entrance the most confusing to locate. There are two ways you can get on to Skyline Drive from Highway 250 and signs are lacking.

If you are coming from Richmond, Virginia or other parts of the South, this would be closest entrance. This is also where the Skyline Drive turns into the Blue Ridge Parkway, so make sure you are heading north when you get on Skyline Drive.

Address: 282 Skyline Drive, Waynesboro, Virginia 22980


Bella at an outlook along Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park - Happyoodles.com

Dog Friendly Ways to Get to Shenandoah National Park

Although you can get close to Shenandoah National Park either by air or train, it is not a commuter friendly location. Outside of car service there are no dog friendly options that I could find to take you to the park from the train station or closest airport.

Once you are in the park you are limited to walking or using car service to get around. This park does not offer a shuttle service.

However, there are a few dog friendly hotels inside the park that are close to park trails. You can find more information on park lodging at Shenandoah National Park Lodging

By Air

There are three airports within 60 miles of the park.

Shenandoah Valley Regional (SHD) – this is the closet one to the park at 27 miles west of the Swift Run Gap Entrance Station. But it is also the smallest with limited commercial flights

Charlottesville-Albemarle (CHO) – is the next airport by distance at 31 miles east of the Rockfish Gap Entrance Station. American Airlines, Delta and United all offer flights here. Please contact the airline directly for their pet policies.

Washington Dulles International (IAD) – is the largest airport in the area. But it is 56 miles east of Front Royal Entrance Station. Please contact the airline directly for their pet policies.

Dog Friendly Ways to Get to Shenandoah National Park - Dog on train

By Train

Amtrak offers rail service through Virginia via their Crescent line. This line runs from New York to New Orleans, stopping in Charlottesville, VA, the closest stop to the park.

Amtrak Pet Policy – Small dogs (under 20 pounds including carrier) are allowed on some of the Amtrak train lines, with restrictions. Please read the Amtrak Pet Policy for complete details.

By Car

The easiest and most dog friendly way to get to Shenandoah National Park is by driving.

Approximate driving time to get to Shenandoah from:

  • Washington DC to North Entrance– 1.5 to 2 hours
  • Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to North Entrance – 4 to 5 hours
  • Columbus, Ohio New York City to North Entrance– 6 to 7 hours
  • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to North Entrance– 4 to 6 hours
  • Richmond, Virginia to Rockfish Gap Entrance– 2 to 3 hours
  • Charlotte, North Carolina to Rockfish Gap Entrance– 5 to 7 hours

Best time of year to visit Shenandoah National Park with a dog - waterfall in spring
Waterfall in Shenandoah National Park

Best time of year to visit Shenandoah National Park with a dog

Shenandoah National Park gets over 1.5 million visits every year and this number keeps growing. The best time to visit the park with a dog is during the shoulder seasons, when the park is less busy.

Summer

The most popular time to visit Shenandoah National Park is during the summer months. This is when schools are out and people head to the mountains for the cooler air.

The roads and popular trails will be crowded during this time. But, you can get away from the crowds by getting a head start in the morning or by getting off the road to hike some of the less popular trails.

The majority of visitors choose to see the park from the road, overlooks or short trails, leaving the rest of the park less crowded.

Shenandoah National Park Skyline Drive in the fall

Fall

Shenandoah is also a popular fall getaway option for people with dogs. This makes fall the next busiest time of the year.

Most leaf peepers descend on the mountains during the long weekends in October when the colors hit their peak. Going during the weekdays will reduce the number of people you will encounter.

Spring

Spring is a great time to take a dog friendly vacation to the park. Not only will it be less crowded for you and your dog to enjoy, but you will be delighted by cooler temperatures to hike, fields of wildflowers and rushing waterfalls. Though, May to July have the most rain days at an average of 12 per month.


Wildflowers along trail at Shenandoah National Park - Happyoodles.com

Dog Friendly Shenandoah National Park

Stay informed

Shenandoah is a beautiful place to get out and enjoy nature with your dog, but it is a wildlife designation. This means you should take safety precautions before starting out to the park.

One way to do this is to stay informed. By signing up to receive alerts from the park’s emergency and significant event system you will be alerted to hazardous situations, road closures within the park, wildfires and other significant incidents in the park.

You can subscribe by texting SHENALERTS to 888777. You can also get Skyline Drive status updates via their Facebook page or twitter feeds.

Picture of black bear at SNP
Black Bear in Shenandoah National Park

Stay Safe

When hiking in the woods or driving along Skyline Drive you may see wildlife. White-tailed deer, birds, snakes, and black bears, along with other animals live in the park. Therefore, it is important that your dog is kept on a lead at all times when in the national park.

Ticks are also a concern for you and your dog, when visiting the park. Please make sure to take proper precautions before you go.

For information on how to stay safe in the park, check out the park’s “safety Page”

Park Fees

Shenandoah National Park charges a fee to enter the park. Please refer to the Park’s Fees and Passes page to get the most up-to-date information on fees.


Dog Friendly Things to Do in Shenandoah National Park - Sunrise over mountains.

Dog Friendly Things to Do in Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah Skyline Drive

The most popular activity in Shenandoah National Park is also very dog friendly. That is to drive along Skyline Drive and stop at many of the 75 overlooks in the park.

From end to end, Skyline Drive is 105 miles long and runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With the majority of the visitors starting in Front Royal, VA, the north to south route of the drive is the most crowded.

The maximum speed limit on Skyline Drive is 35 mph. But the limit is reduced in developed and congested areas. This means it will take you more than 3 hours to drive the entire length without stopping.

Dog Friendly Things to Do in Shenandoah National Park - Skyline Drive Overlook sign

But who wants to do that.

The fun in driving the Skyline Drive is stopping at the overpasses to see the panoramic views of the mountains and valleys. Add in a few hiking trails and you can spend your entire day just roaming along the drive.

For a quicker route back north, you can take US 340 north. This route will take you through Luray, VA, which has some fun dog friendly stops and places to eat.

Of course, you can choose not to drive the entire length and instead get off at either Thornton Gap Entrance or Swift Run Gap Entrance. Then choose a faster highway to get back north.

Dog Friendly Things to Do in Shenandoah National Park - Stargazing

Stargazing

Head over to the Big Meadows area, near the Rapidan Fire Road for some stargazing. You can also try the amphitheater in the Skyland area. On moonless and cloud-free nights you can see the Milky Way. But you will need to wait until all the light from the sun it gone.


Dog Friendly Hikes in Shenandoah National Park

As I mentioned earlier, Shenandoah National Park is one of the few national parks that allows pets on most of their trails. Out of 500-plus miles of hiking trails in the park, less than 20-miles of trails prohibit pets.

Pet Policy: Pets are also not allowed in buildings or on Ranger Programs. All pets must be on a 6-foot leash and be cleaned up after. For more information, check out the Shenandoah National Park Pet Policy

Here is a list of trails that prohibits pets:

  • Fox Hollow Trail (mile marker 4.6)
  • Stony Man Trail (mile 41.7) except for portion that follows the Appalachian Trail
  • Limberlost Trail (mile 43)
  • Post Office Junction to Old Rag Shelter
  • Old Rag Ridge Trail – popular trail
  • Old Rag Saddle Trail – popular trail
  • Ridge Access Trail (Old Rag area)
  • Dark Hollow Falls Trail (mile 50.7) – popular trail
  • Story of the Forest Trail (mile 51)
  • Bearfence Mountain Trail (mile 56.4)
  • Frazier Discovery Trail (mile 79.5)

So, now that we talked about where your dog can’t go, let’s talk about where they can.

Dog Friendly Hiking Trails

Pet Policy for trials: For the trails listed below dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6-feet in length.

Hawksbill Summit - SNP
Hawksbill Summit

Hawksbill Summit

If you are looking for expansive views, the popular Hawksbill summit should deliver. The viewing platform on top of Hawksbill offers a 360-degree view of the Shenandoah Valley, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the Virginia Piedmont.

There are two ways to get to the summit from the Hawsbill Gap Parking Area; The Hawksbill Loop or the Hawksbill Summit hike. Both are dog friendly (on leash only) and considered moderate hikes, but the summit hike is shorter and steeper than the loop trail.

Details:

Hawksbill Summit Trail

  • Length – 1.6-mile out and back hike
  • Rating- Moderate with a 690-foot elevation gain.
  • Starts– At the Hawksbill Gap Parking area at mile marker 45.5

Hawksbill Loop Trail

  • Length– 2.8-mile loop hike
  • Rating– Moderate with an 860-foot elevation gain.
  • Starts – Hawksbill Gap Parking area at mile 45.5
Rose River Falls - SNP
Rose River Falls

Rose River Trail

If you are looking to hike to a waterfall, the dog friendly Rose River Falls Trail will bring you to a dazzling 67 foot waterfall. Parts of the trail follows the Rose River with small falls along the way. As with many waterfalls there will be less water during a hot, dry summer.

Details:

  • Length – 4-miles circuit hike.
  • Rating – Moderate with a 910-foot elevation gain.
  • Starts – Hike starts across from the Fishers Gap Parking area at mile 49.4.
Blackrock Summit
Blackrock Summit

Blackrock Summit

If you are looking for a short easy hike, Blackrock Summit provides incredible views of the Shenandoah Valley and Massanutten Mountain. This hike is also a designated TRACK trail, featuring a self-guided brochure and informational signs. To find out more information about TRACK Trails and to log your adventure, visit the Kids in Parks website.

Details:

  • Length – 1-miles circuit hike
  • Rating – Easy with a 175 -foot elevation gain
  • Starts – Hike starts at the Blackrock Parking area at mile 84.4

Big Meadows Sign - SNP

Dog Friendly Things to Do Near Shenandoah National Park

Note: Before visiting a venue listed in this post, please confirm that they still allow dogs. Information listed here is subject to change without notice. While we strive to insure accuracy on Happyoodles.com, it cannot be guaranteed.

Also, the mentioning of a business on this page should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Dog Friendly Things to Do Near Shenandoah National Park - Shenandoah Valley

Northern Part of Shenandoah National park – Dog Friendly Things To Do

Winchester, Virginia

Winchester, VA is about 30 minutes north of Front Royal. It is the oldest city west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Here you can dine alfresco, visit dog friendly breweries, walk along an art trail and see centuries-old architecture.

Winchester-Frederick County Visitor Center

Stop by the Winchester-Frederick County Visitor Center to pick up self-guided tour brochures and find out what dog friendly events are happening during your stay.

While the Visitor Center does not allow pet dogs inside, dogs are allowed on the paved walking trail that goes around Wilkins Lake and also on the trials and paths at Shenandoah University which is right next door to the center.

  • Address: 1400 S. Pleasant Valley Road, Winchester, VA 22601
  • Phone: (540) 542-1326 or (877) 871-1326
Old Town Winchester - Happyoodles.com

Explore Downtown Winchester

Take a Self-Guided tour that includes information on the history and architecture of the Winchester Historic District. Tour maps are available at the Visitor Center, via an app or online. Did you know that some of the houses here are over 250 years old?

While you are there, check out the Old Town Winchester pedestrian walkway in the heart of the historic district. This two-block pedestrian walkway features unique small shops, restaurants with outdoor patios and at times street performers. Dogs are welcome to walk around outside with you. There are four parking garages in Old Town Winchester along with on street parking.

Address: 1 N Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA

Broken Window Brewing Company

If you are into craft beer, stop by the Broken Window Brewing Company in downtown Winchester. While you are enjoying your beer and fresh popcorn you can try your hand at a board game while your pup hangs out by your side.

Dogs are allowed inside the brewing company. But please make sure your dog is well-behaved and stays close to you.

  • Address: 14 W Boscawen Street, Winchester, VA 22601
  • Phone: 540-660-9577
Outside of Cooter's - Dog Friendly Shenandoah Valley - Happyoodles.com

Museum of Shenandoah Valley

The Museum of Shenandoah Valley (MSV) is a mixture of indoor and outdoor art displays set on 214-acres. The displays include indoor galleries with both permanent collections and changing exhibits, seven acres of formal gardens, the Glen Burnie House and the Trails at MSV, a 90-acre art park with over 3 miles of trails.

Dog policy – Dog are not allowed in any of the buildings or formal gardens, but they are allowed on the trails at MSV which are free to use. You can do what we do and take turns visiting the galleries while the other person walks the trails with the dog.

Things to know about MSV

  • Museum galleries and gardens are open Tuesday to Sunday, but closed on Mondays and certain holidays.
  • Trails are open daily, but may close due to the weather
  • Admission is waived for the galleries and gardens on Wednesdays but you still need to pay to see special exhibits.
  • You can get a discount on the general admission by buying the tickets on-line. These tickets are non-refundable.

Address: 901 Amherst Street, Winchester, Virginia 22601

Winchester Dog Park

You can find the Winchester Dog Park at the Jim Barnett Park. Licensed and vaccinated dogs can play off-leash. There are separate enclosures for small and large dogs.

Address: 150 War Memorial Dr, Winchester, VA 22601


Front Royal, Virginia

Front Royal is the closet town to any of the entrances. In fact, the North Entrance is right in town. Therefore, you will find a variety of accommodates ranging from dog friendly chain hotels, to rental homes. Plus, there are a few dog friendly activities outside of the park.

Skyline Caverns

If you are looking for a unique activity consider checking out one of the commercial caverns in the area. A few of them are friendly to small dogs.

Skyline Caverns is one of them. Here you will see anthodite formations that can only be seen in a few places in the world. These unique crystals grow in all directions, defying gravity. Skyline Caverns is home to the Chandelier anthodite, which is the largest and oldest anthodite known to man.

  • Pet policy: Small pets are only allowed in the cavern if they are carried for the duration of the tour.
  • Address: 10344 Stonewall Jackson Hwy, Front Royal, VA 22630
  • Phone: (540) 635-4545 or 800-296-4545
State Arboretum of Virginia.
State Arboretum of Virginia

Blandy Experimental Farm

Located about half an hour north of Front Royal, VA is Blandy Experimental Farm. Blandy Experimental Farm is a 700-acre research field station for the University of Virginia and the home of the State Arboretum of Virginia.

The State Arboretum sits in the center of the farm on 172-acres. You will find more than 5,000 trees and shrubs from around the world in the Arboretum. There are trails throughout the site for you to enjoy.

State Arboretum of Virginia Pet Policy – Pets are welcome but must be leashed at all times in all areas.
Pet waste stations are provided near parking areas. Please pick up and dispose of pet waste properly

Address: 400 Blandy Farm Ln, Boyce, VA 22620

Vineyard in Shenandoah Valley 0 Happyoodles.com

Dog Friendly Brewery and Winery Near Front Royal

There are a number of dog friendly breweries and wineries in the area. Here are a few that are close to Front Royal, VA.

  • Saga Meadery & Winery
    • If you are looking for something different, check out the Saga Meadery. Here you will find a collection of handcrafted Meads. In case you are wondering, mead is a fermented beverage made out of honey, water and yeast. You will find outdoor picnic tables in back.
    • Address: 7 South St, Front Royal, VA 22630
    • Phone: (339) 221-3115
  • Chester Gap Cellars
    • Try a sampling of red and white wines, while enjoying a view of the mountains and valley below, at Chester Gap Cellars.
    • Pet Policy – Welcomes well behaved pet dogs at their outdoor seating area.
    • Address: 4615 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630
    • Phone: (540) 636-8086
  • Fox Meadow Winery
    • This winery is a little further away from Front Royal, but the beautiful views from their dog friendly patio makes it worth the mention.
    • Pet Policy – Dogs are welcome on the outdoor deck or picnic area. They must be leashed, well behaved and polite to other dogs and people
    • Walks-in are welcomed but reservations recommended on Saturdays and Sundays.
    • Address: 3310 Freezeland Road, Linden, VA 22642
    • Phone: (540) 636-6777

Front Royal Outdoors

Looking to get out on the water with your pup? Front Royal Outdoors offers dog friendly self-guided canoe and kayak trips on the South Fork of the Shenandoah

  • Address: 8567 Stonewall Jackson Hwy, Front Royal, VA 22630
  • Phone: (800) 270-8808
Dog with ball in grass

Eastham Dog Park

If your dog is looking for a little off-leash time you can find the Warren County Dog Park in Eastham Park, in Front Royal. The facility provides a 0.75-acre area for smaller, timid, or older dogs and 1.90 acres for larger dogs who need plenty of room to run.

Address: 860 Luray Ave, Front Royal, VA 22630


Luray, Virginia

Luray is a short drive from the Thornton Gap Entrance making it a good choice as a home base if you are not staying in the Park. Plus, it has a few unique places that are dog friendly.

Bella in her carrier at Luray Caverns - Happyoodles.com
Bella in backpack at Luray Caverns

Luray Caverns

Luray Caverns is the largest cavern in Eastern USA. Self-guided tours along lighted, paved walkways lead you through cathedral-sized rooms with ceilings 10-stories high, and towering stone formations.

  • Pet Policy: Leashed pets are allowed on the Luray Caverns grounds outside. Guests are permitted to carry small pets on the tour.
  • Address: 101 Cave Hill Road, Luray, VA 22835
  • Phone: (540) 743-6551
Outside of Cooter's - Dog Friendly Shenandoah Valley - Happyoodles.com

Cooter’s Place – Luray, VA

If you are a fan of the original Dukes of Hazard, then you need to stop by Cooter’s Place. Owned by Ben Jones who played the mechanic, Cooter, the place is filled with memorabilia from the show.

There are three Cooter’s. The one in Luray features a museum dedicated to the Dukes of Hazzard which includes a Replica of Cooter’s Garage with General Lee, Cooter’s Tow Truck, and Boss Hogg’s Caddy.

Best of all they are dog friendly to leashed dogs.

  • Address: 4768 U.S. Highway 211 West, Luray, VA 22835
  • Phone: (540) 843-2515
Shenandoah River

Shenandoah River Outfitters

Take a ride down the Shenandoah river with your pup by your side with Shenandoah River Outfitters. Dogs are only allowed in canoes & kayaks. Trips are self-guided.

  • Address: 6502 S Page Valley Rd. Luray VA 22835
  • Phone: 540-743-4159

Hawksbill Brewery

Hawksbill Brewery sets itself apart from other breweries by using locally grown ingredients included the hops and honey. While they don’t serve food, they do invite food truck to come by. Hours change seasonally. Please refer their website for up-to-date times. Leashed dogs are allowed.

  • Address: 22 Zerkel St, Luray, Virginia 22835
  • Phone: (540) 860-5608

Wisteria Vineyard

Not too far from Luray, VA you will find the charming Wisteria Vineyard. In addition to wine tasting this vineyard also offers up walking paths, live music on occasion, games for kids and places to spread out. Well-behaved pets are allowed as long as they are kept on a leash and attached to their human.

  • Address: 1126 Marksville Rd, Stanley, VA 22851
  • Phone: (540) 742-5215

Southern Part of Shenandoah National Park – Dog Friendly Things To Do

James Madison University.
James Madison University.

Harrisonburg, Virginia

Located about 30 minutes from the south entrance of Shenandoah National Park, you will find the small city of Harrisonburg, Virginia.   Nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains, Harrisonburg is known as the outdoor adventure capital of Shenandoah Valley. Harrisonburg is also where you will find James Madison University.

Explore Downtown Harrisonburg

Downtown Harrisonburg serves as the hub for the city’s vibrant arts and cultural district, where you will find plenty of dog friendly restaurants, and hotels.  

Take some time to explore the downtown area with a free Traipse Self-Guided Tours.  The tours feature downtown murals and historic sites and range from a historic tour to a pub crawl. Most of the tours offer free outdoor riddles to solve along the way.

Edith J. Carrier Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum is located on the grounds of James Madison University. Here you can walk the winding woodland trails that run through the landscaped gardens.

  • Pet Policy: Leashed dogs are welcome, but you must pick up after your dog. Courtesy
    bags are located near the welcome boards. Dogs must stay away from all water features.
  • Address: 780 University Boulevard Harrisonburg, VA 22807
  • Phone: (540) 568-3194

Smithland Road Dog Park

The Smithland Road Dog Park in Harrisonburg, VA offers a 2.2-acre dog park. The park includes two fenced in areas. One for large dogs and one for small dogs.

The large dog area is for dogs 30 pounds and over. The small dog area is for dogs up to 30 pounds. Please review the park’s web-page for complete details on rules for the park.

Address: 1646 Smithland Road, on the corner of Smithland and Old Furnace Road in Harrisonburg.

Dog Friendly Brewery and Winery Near Harrisonburg

Bluestone Vineyard

The Bluestone Vineyard is a family owned and operated vineyard and winery. Started back in 2007, they are committed to crafting small-batch wines from locally sourced and estate grown fruit.

You will find the tasting room in the lower level of the meeting house. Outside heaters, a fireplace, and two fire pits makes the outside seating area a perfect place to sip a glass of wine and watch the sunset even as the weather cools.

  • Pet policy: Friendly dogs on a leash are welcome in the Tasting Room and outside around the Tasting Room.
  • Address: 4828 Spring Creek Road, Bridgewater, VA 22812
  • Phone: (540) 828-0099

White Oak Lavender Farm & The Purple Wolf Vineyard

Stop by the White Oak Lavender Farm for a guided tour of the farm or to pick up some lavender products at their gift shop. While you are there, visit the Purple Wolf Vineyard tasting room. In case you didn’t realize it “wolf” stands for White Oak Lavender Farm.

  • Pet Policy: Pet dogs are allowed to be with their humans in the front portion of the farm and the tasting room area only. Please refer to their site to see where dogs are not allowed.
  • Address: 2644 Cross Keys Road, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  • Phone: (540) 421-6345

Dog Friendly Restaurants Near Shenandoah National Park

Since it does get cold in the Shenandoah Valley in the winter, most restaurants will not have outdoor seating available. Please call ahead to make sure patio seating is available.

Dog Friendly Restaurants in Shenandoah National Park

Big Meadows Lodge Spottswood Dining Room – This is the only full-service dining option inside the park that allows dogs. Dogs are only allowed on their seasonal outdoor terrace.

But your dog will be pampered with their very own doggy menu with items like Puppy Patties or Yardbird and Rice (it’s chicken)

  • Address: Mile 51.2 along the Skyline Drive
  • Phone: (877) 847-1919

You will also find rest stops referred to as “Wayside” approximately every 25 miles along Skyline Drive. Pets are not allowed inside the building, but they offer grab and go items or have outdoor seating.

  • Elkwallow Wayside (mile 24.1) –
    • Offers breakfast and sandwiches, grilled items for lunch and dinner. Outdoor seating is available
  • Skyland Wayside (mile 41.7 and 42.5) –
    • Grab ‘n Go sandwiches, salads, pastries, snacks and drinks
  • Big Meadows Wayside (mile 51.2) –
    • Grab ‘n Go sandwiches, salads, pastries, snacks and drinks to go.
    • Gas station
  • Loft Mountain Wayside (mile 79.5) –
    • Breakfast and lunch. Outdoor seating is available

Dog Friendly Restaurants in Front Royal, VA

PaveMint Smokin’ Taphouse – is a farm to street grill, serving up BBQ and craft beers. Offers dog friendly outdoor seating in season.

  • Address: 9 S Commerce Ave, Front Royal, VA 22630
  • Phone: (540) 252-4707

Soul Mountain Restaurant & Bar – bistro serving a creative lineup of BBQ & soul food in a wood-lined storefront space. Outdoor seating available when the weather is nice.

  • Address: 865 John Marshall Hwy, Front Royal, VA 22630
  • Phone: (540) 636-1185

Vibrissa Beer – Vibrissa’s Front Royal taproom, restaurant, beer garden and dining deck offers craft beer and a full-service food, wine and craft cocktails. You can bring your pup with you during nice weather as dogs are allowed in the beer garden

  • Address: 122 E Main St, Front Royal, VA 22630
  • Phone: (540) 631-0773

Dog Friendly Restaurants in Luray, VA

Gathering Grounds Patisserie and Cafe – Only 16 minutes from the Thornton Gap Entrance to SNP, this place is convenient to stop by for breakfast before heading to the park. Also, if you want to eat outside of the park for lunch or need an afternoon snack. They have a dog friendly patio that can be accessed from the parking lot behind the cafe.

  • Address: 24 East Main Street, Luray, VA 22835
  • Phone: (540) 743-1121

Triple Crown BBQ – offers handcrafted, small-batch, slow-smoked BBQ. It really is more of a BBQ stand then a restaurant. But they do have some outdoor picnic style seating or you can just eat in your car. They are open seasonally and only Friday to Sunday.

  • Address: 1079 Hwy 211 West, Luray, VA
  • Phone: (540) 743-5311

Dog Friendly Restaurants in Harrisonburg, VA

Magpie Diner and Bakery is a full-service breakfast and lunch restaurant serving a modern diner-inspired menu. They offer a changing menu and a Friday night menu. Their patio is dog-friendly in season.

  • Address: 85 W Gay St, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
  • Phone: (540) 383-4813

Rocktown Kitchen – Specializes in baked, not fried foods for a healthier menu. Offers outside dog friendly seating in season.

  • Address: 217 S Liberty St #101, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  • Phone: (540) 217-2425

Jack Brown’s Burger and Beer Joint – Serves an assortment of burgers and toppings. Outside seating is dog friendly when the weather is nice.

  • Address: 80 S Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  • Phone: (540) 433-5225

Do you Know of a Dog Friendly Place Near Shenandoah National Park that is not listed here?

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