Top 5 Dog-Friendly Adventures to Take This Summer

Summer is the perfect season for making memories with your pup. The sun is shining, the days are long, and the open road is calling. Whether you're exploring the mountains, chilling by a lake, or strolling a new city, your dog deserves to be by your side. But just like us, dogs need the right gear for a safe, fun-filled adventure. That’s where BarkPlayground’s Summer Adventure Bundle comes in—featuring our fan-favorite HydraPaws Water Bottle and the PawGuard Dog Car Seat. Hydration? Check. Safety and comfort? Check.

Ready to plan your pup's next big adventure? Here are five unforgettable dog-friendly destinations and how the Summer Adventure Bundle can make the experience even better.

1. Beach Days: Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Dogs and beaches go together like peanut butter and kibble. Carmel Beach is one of the most dog-friendly beaches in the country. Off-leash play is allowed, the sand is soft, and the coastal views are unbeatable.

What to Do:

• Let your pup run freely in the surf.

• Pack a beach picnic and soak up the sun.

• Walk the Scenic Bluff Path for stunning ocean views.

Pro Tips:

• Always rinse off your dog after saltwater play.

• Bring shade—umbrellas or a pop-up tent work great.

• Avoid hot sand in the peak afternoon hours.

Bundle Boost: The HydraPaws water bottle is perfect for a beach day. It keeps water cool and dispenses easily into the attached bowl—no waste, no mess. And after a day of sandy zoomies, your dog will thank you for the PawGuard, which protects your car seat from sand, water, and fur.

2. Mountain Hiking: Sedona, AZ

Red rocks, epic views, and pet-friendly trails make Sedona a dream hiking destination. Trails like Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock offer moderate hikes with jaw-dropping scenery.

What to Do:

• Hit the Bell Rock Loop Trail for a sunrise or sunset hike.

• Stop by Creekside Bistro’s dog-friendly patio.

• Explore Slide Rock State Park—leashed dogs are welcome in certain areas.

Pro Tips:

• Start hikes early to avoid desert heat.

• Carry extra water (for both of you).

• Use paw balm or booties for extra paw protection on rocky terrain.

Bundle Boost: HydraPaws ensures your dog stays hydrated through every mile of trail. Its lightweight design clips to your bag or leash. Post-hike, the PawGuard keeps your car clean from red dust, muddy paws, or exhausted flops.

3. Lake Life: McCall, ID

Tucked in the mountains of Idaho, McCall is a peaceful lakeside town with dog-friendly swimming areas, hiking trails, and cozy cabins.

What to Do:

• Let your pup splash at Legacy Park's dog-friendly beach.

• Hike Ponderosa State Park for pine forest serenity.

• Rent a canoe or kayak and let your pup cruise with you.

Pro Tips:

• Pack floating toys and a dog life jacket.

• Bring a towel and brush to detangle fur post-swim.

• Watch for signs of fatigue and overheating.

Bundle Boost: After a lake dip, your pup needs to rehydrate—enter HydraPaws. The easy-squeeze bottle and detachable bowl make it simple to refresh your pup dockside or on the trail. The PawGuard protects your back seat from soggy dog shakes and wet fur.

4. Urban Getaway: Portland, OR

City lovers, rejoice. Portland is one of the most dog-friendly cities in America, with countless patios, trails, and boutiques that welcome four-legged explorers.

What to Do:

• Grab coffee at dog-friendly Coava Coffee Roasters.

• Let your dog roam leash-free at Sellwood Riverfront Park.

• Visit Tin Shed Garden Cafe—they have a dog menu!

Pro Tips:

• Always carry water in the summer heat.

• Avoid mid-day pavement walking; it's harsh on paws.

• Try dog booties or stick to shaded paths.

Bundle Boost: Strolling the city means lots of little hydration breaks. Clip HydraPaws to your bag or belt for fast water access on walks. And when you're hopping from cafe to trail to park, the PawGuard gives your dog a comfy, clean ride back to the hotel or Airbnb.

5. Forest Escape: Shenandoah National Park, VA

Craving quiet, trees, and fresh mountain air? Shenandoah offers 500+ miles of trails, with many open to leashed dogs. Waterfalls, wildlife, and wildflowers await.

What to Do:

• Hike the Rose River Trail for waterfall views.

• Drive Skyline Drive for scenic overlooks.

• Camp overnight at a dog-friendly site.

Pro Tips:

• Keep your dog leashed—wildlife is everywhere.

• Bring tick repellent and do nightly checks.

• Pack high-protein snacks and cooling gear.

Bundle Boost: Your dog will work up a thirst in the mountains, and HydraPaws makes refills easy. Its spill-proof design is great for backpacking. After muddy adventures, the PawGuard keeps your backseat safe from wet paws and shedding.

Summer Safety Tips for Adventuring Pups

1. Hydration is key. Offer water every 30–45 minutes during activity.

2. Check the ground. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws.

3. Rest often. Take shady breaks every hour.

4. Watch for overheating. Heavy panting, drooling, and lethargy are early signs.

5. Secure car travel. Dogs should always be harnessed or seated safely—the PawGuard helps keep them secure and your car protected.

Final Thoughts

Summer adventures are better with your dog. Whether you're hitting the coast, conquering trails, or discovering new cities together, it's about the joy of shared experiences. The Summer Adventure Bundle from BarkPlayground, with the HydraPaws and PawGuard, ensures your dog stays safe, hydrated, and happy the whole journey through.

Grab your bundle today and start planning your next adventure. The Bundle is automatically applied in your cart after adding both products!

Let the tail-wagging memories begin!