3. Sip ‘N Stroll with Your Sweet Pup
Elona Schreiner
Things to Do
10 Dog-Friendly Destinations in the Texas Hill Country
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Walnut Creek is perfect for dogs and their outdoorsy owners! Dogs are allowed to run, swim, frolic, and play off-leash for nearly the entirety of the 300-acre park. Located in North Austin, this park is easy to access for Austinites as well as visitors and suburb residents. You can beat the summer heat with your pup in this geocaching, mountain biking, hiking paradise.
Enchanted Rock is a great dog-friendly destination outside of the city. A Texas Historical Landmark, it was named for mysterious and magical noises that are emitted from this granite monolith during the night. Geologists attribute the creaking and groaning due to the cooling of this massive rock after the day’s heating. The choices of activities are quite varied in this unique park; bird-watching, hiking, camping, backpacking, rock climbing, picnicking, nature study, and geocaching. Enchanted Rock State Natural area is very dog-friendly, however, not all of its trails are open to canines. It’s a good idea to check the website for the most up-to-date news on dog rules and weather-related closures.
Escape. Back country. Primitive. If this sounds like your dream destination, bring your dog out to Hill Country State Natural Area in Bandera, Texas. It is an unimproved, undeveloped natural area. The trails are multi-use for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. Primitive camping is also available at this park. Hill Country State Natural Area prides themselves on their back country nature, the website even states, “We are a primitive park, back to nature — so we say ‘If you think you need it, we don’t have it, so you’ll need to bring it!’” Enjoy the best of the dog days of our Texas summer at this secluded and peaceful park.
Photo: Facebook/Flat Creek Estate
The Texas Hill Country is rapidly growing as a recognized and renowned destination for wine lovers. There are many wineries and tasting rooms that welcome your furry friend along with their fine fare.
One such vineyard is Flat Creek Estate Winery and their tasting room Enoteca in Marble Falls. Both locations welcome your dog on their patios. The Vineyard location even has an event room named after their beloved Doberman, Trooper.
Another local Hill Country venue for pups and pinot is the Bent Oak Winery in Cedar Park. They welcome your dog to join you in tasting some of Texas and California’s best varietals.
Bell Springs Winery in Dripping Springs and Wimberley Valley Winery in Wimberley are two more dog-friendly destinations for wine lovers. They boast spectacular Hill Country views, excellent dining and picnic options, as well as beautiful events.
In the city of Austin, the Uncorked Tasting Room and Wine Bar, as well as Max’s Wine Dive are two places to appreciate local vintages and pet your pup at the same time.
Savor the tastes of central Texas’ wine country with your favorite furry friend. With room to roam in the picturesque vineyard properties and a relaxing atmosphere, the whole family will enjoy the experience.
4. Have a Drink While Your Dog has a Playdate
Central Texas is home to some of the most dog-friendly venues in the country. We enjoy our libations and cuisine as well. In true Southern ingenuity, creative Texans have combined our favorite friends and hobbies! After a fun day at the park or winery, relax with your dog at one of these great local public houses.
Austin’s Yard Bar welcomes all friendly and healthy dogs without breed restrictions to enjoy their dog park while the accompanying humans delight in an extensive menu to satisfy every foodie.
The Austin suburb of Leander houses The Doghouse Drinkery and Dog Park. It’s a great place for humans to relax, watch the game, and meet fellow dog enthusiasts all while their dogs play in the attached dog park.
Austin Terrier has two large decks to dine with your dog. The cocktail and dinner menu is wide-ranging and a fit for every palate and preference.
These unique locations are truly family friendly, for our furry family members!
