Dog-friendly Door County Stays: Pet-Friendly Accomodations

Door County welcomes four-legged visitors with open arms—and over 400 pet-friendly accommodations spanning the peninsula and islands. From historic waterfront resorts to rustic campground cabins, this comprehensive guide covers every dog-friendly lodging option across all communities, complete with pet policies, fees, and the amenities that make traveling with your pup a breeze. Most properties limit stays to 2 dogs maximum with nightly pet fees ranging from $10 to $50, though several welcome dogs at no extra charge.

Sturgeon Bay and the southern gateway

As Door County's largest city and main entry point, Sturgeon Bay offers the widest variety of dog-friendly chain hotels and independent properties. This area provides convenient access to Potawatomi State Park and the Shiloh Road Bark Park—a 4-acre fenced dog park open 24 hours.

The Lodge at Leathem Smith

Type: Waterfront Resort | Address: 1640 Memorial Drive, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 | Phone: (920) 743-5555 | Website: thelodgeatls.com

Pet Policy: The Lodge charges $25 per dog, per night with no size restrictions. Up to 2 dogs are permitted, but only in 4 designated pet-friendly rooms (1 Captain's Suite, 1 Standard Double Queen, 2 Standard King rooms). Dogs only—cats not permitted. A $250 cleaning fee applies if pets are found in non-designated rooms. You must call to confirm pet room availability.

Dog Amenities: Rooms feature pet-friendly materials with access to a designated outdoor pet area. Dogs must be leashed or kenneled at all times outside the room and cannot be left unattended except briefly during breakfast (when kenneled). Dogs are not permitted in the breakfast area, pool, restaurant, or common areas.

Beach Harbor Resort

Type: Waterfront Resort | Address: 4007 Bay Shore Drive, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

Pet Policy: A very affordable $15 per pet, per night fee applies. Any size dog is welcome, with a 2 dog maximum. Cats are not permitted.

Dog Amenities: This property stands out by allowing dogs in the dining area—a rarity in Door County. The resort features a dog exercise area on property, grassy areas with waste stations, and offers dog-sitter referrals for an additional fee. Located just 0.11 miles from Potawatomi State Park, dogs must be leashed at all times outside rooms given the waterfront setting. Dogs cannot be left unattended or placed on furniture.

Holiday Music Motel

Type: Boutique Music-Themed Motel | Address: 30 N. 1st Ave, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 | Phone: (920) 743-5571 | Website: holidaymusicmotel.com

Pet Policy: The most affordable option at just $10 per pet, per night. Up to 2 dogs of any size are permitted, though small dogs are preferred. Only first floor rooms (120-128) are pet-friendly—8 rooms total. All pets require prior approval by calling management. Dogs only—cats not accepted.

Dog Amenities: A grassy area for pet relief is available on property. Dogs must be well-behaved and freshly bathed, and may not be left unattended. This unique property features a recording studio and fire pit lounge, located one block from the waterfront.

Best Western Maritime Inn

Type: Chain Hotel | Address: 1001 N. 14th Avenue, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

Pet Policy: $20 per pet, per night with an 80-pound weight limit per dog. Up to 2 dogs allowed, but only in rooms with two queen beds. Dogs only—no cats.

Dog Amenities: Grassy pet relief area on property with waste bags provided. Dogs may not be left unattended in rooms. Guests enjoy free hot breakfast and access to an indoor pool (dogs not permitted in pool area).

Snug Harbor Inn

Type: Motel & Cottages | Address: 1161 Green Bay Road, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

Pet Policy: $15 per pet, per night with no size restrictions. 2 dogs maximum permitted in designated cottages and motel rooms only. Dogs only—cats not permitted. Dogs cannot be left unattended.

Dog Amenities: Grassy pet relief area near property with beautiful waterfront views.

Super 8 by Wyndham Sturgeon Bay

Type: Chain Motel | Address: 923 Green Bay Road, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

Pet Policy: $20 per pet, per night with no size restrictions. 2 dogs maximum—cats not accepted.

Quality Inn & Suites

Type: Chain Hotel | Address: 923 Green Bay Road, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

Pet Policy: $15 per pet, per night with a 30-pound weight limit (larger dogs may be allowed by request). 2 pets maximum, and both dogs and cats are accepted. Contact the hotel directly for all pet room requests.

Dog Amenities: Indoor and outdoor pools (dogs not permitted), free hot breakfast, and free WiFi.

Motel 57

Type: Budget Motel | Address: 1001 N 14th Avenue, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

Pet Policy: $15 per pet, per night with no size restrictions. 2 pets allowed, and this property accepts both dogs and cats—one of few in the area.

Dog Amenities: Kitchenettes available, barbecue facilities, close to state parks and wineries. Highly rated for cleanliness (9.0 rating).

Notable properties NOT pet-friendly in Sturgeon Bay

Stone Harbor Resort, Bay Shore Inn (offers 10% kennel voucher), AmericInn by Wyndham, Westwood Shores Waterfront Resort, and Bridgeport Waterfront Resort do not allow pets.

Fish Creek brings dogs to the park entrance

Fish Creek sits at the gateway to Peninsula State Park, making it ideal for dog owners wanting trail access. The village offers charming downtown shopping and the Fish Creek Public Beach, which welcomes dogs.

Julie's Park Cafe & Motel

Type: Motel with Café | Address: 4020 State Highway 42, Fish Creek, WI 54212 | Phone: (920) 868-2999 | Website: juliesmotel.com

Pet Policy: $15 per pet, per night with no size restrictions. Multiple pets welcome—both dogs and cats accepted. Only 8 designated pet-friendly rooms available; you must contact the hotel prior to arrival.

Dog Amenities: Welcome baskets with treats, towels, and blankets greet furry guests. The café features a pet-friendly patio, and dog waste bag dispensers are located throughout the property. The motel sits at the entrance to Peninsula State Park, an 8-minute walk from Fish Creek Beach, with direct access to hiking and biking trails.

Settlement Courtyard Inn & Lavender Spa

Type: Inn with Spa | Address: 9126 Highway 42, Fish Creek, WI 54212 | Phone: (920) 868-3524 | Website: settlementinn.com

Pet Policy: $20 per pet, per night plus $150 refundable deposit. Any size dogs welcome, 2 dogs maximum. Dogs only—no cats. You cannot book online—must call to reserve. Only the Garden House/family house accommodates pets, and pre-approval is required.

Dog Amenities: Pet relief areas within walking distance and 4 miles of on-site hiking trails that connect to Peninsula State Park. Views of Fish Creek and Green Bay enhance the spa resort experience.

Fresh Coast Motel

Type: Boutique Motel | Address: Downtown Fish Creek (Main Street) | Website: freshcoastmotel.com

Pet Policy: A $50 one-time dog fee (plus tax) applies. Dogs of any size accepted, but only 1 pet per designated room. Both dogs and cats are welcome.

Dog Amenities: Pet rooms include a doggy mat for food and water dishes. Multiple dog waste bag dispensers are placed throughout the property, extra towels are available for drying pets, and a dog-friendly patio features a gas fire pit. Pet-friendly room types include No Water View Double Queen, Single King, and Single King Partial Water View rooms. The motel offers Fish Creek Harbor and Peninsula State Park views.

Peninsula Park-View Resort

Type: Resort with Motel Rooms and Cottages | Address: 3397 Highway 42, Fish Creek, WI 54212 | Phone: (920) 854-2633 | Website: peninsulaparkview.com

Pet Policy: $15 per pet, per night with no size restrictions. 2 dogs maximum—dogs only, no cats. Only specific rooms are pet-friendly: Rooms 1, 9, and 10 at the main resort, plus Cardinal, Sparrow, and Starling cottages at Robins Nest Cottages. Current vaccination tags required (papers on request).

Dog Amenities: Located directly across from Peninsula State Park for convenient trail access. Dogs cannot be left unattended, must use non-retractable leashes, and cannot be housed outside overnight. Free bicycles, outdoor pool, and playground available for guests.

Ephraim offers historic waterfront charm

This picturesque village on Eagle Harbor features historic architecture and stunning views. Dogs can explore the waterfront and nearby trails while owners enjoy Ephraim's classic Door County atmosphere.

Edgewater Resort

Type: Historic Waterfront Resort with Cottages | Address: Highway 42, P.O. Box 143, Ephraim, WI 54211 | Phone: (920) 854-2734 | Website: edge-waterresort.com

Pet Policy: $30 per pet, per night plus $100 refundable deposit. Any size dogs welcome, up to 3 dogs permitted—one of the most generous pet limits in Door County. Dogs only—no cats. Seasonal restrictions apply: During summer (May 10–October 28), pets are allowed only in three cottages. Off-season, pets are also allowed in Courtyard and Deluxe Courtyard rooms. Hotel rooms are never pet-friendly during summer. You must call (877) 411-3436 prior to booking.

Dog Amenities: Crafted doggie treats provided at check-in along with toys and a listing of local dog parks and dog-friendly places. The resort features 400 feet of private shorefront with landscaped grounds. Historic Civil War-era cottages offer 2-bedroom layouts with private kitchens. Guests must review and accept Dog-Friendly Policies before booking.

Somerset Inn & Suites

Type: Inn/Hotel | Address: North end of Ephraim (5 wooded acres) | Phone: (800) 809-1819 | Website: somersetinndc.com

Pet Policy: A flat $35 one-time non-refundable cleaning fee (per stay, not per night)—excellent value for longer stays. Any size pets accepted, 2 pets per reservation. Both dogs and cats are welcome. Bookings must be made in advance online or by phone; you must see "pet friendly" in the room description. Unannounced pets will be turned away if no pet rooms are available.

Dog Amenities: Limited pet-friendly options among 38 total rooms. Amenities include indoor pool and hot tub, outdoor pool and sundeck, propane firepit, and picnic areas with grills. Located within walking distance to downtown shops and restaurants, 2 minutes from Anderson Dock and Wilson's Ice Cream.

Ephraim Village Cottages

Type: Cottage Resort | Address: Ephraim (walkable to downtown) | Website: ephraimvillagecottages.com | Season: May to October

Pet Policy: All well-behaved, friendly dogs are welcome across 12 cottages on 3 acres. Limit 1 dog in Cozy Brook North/South and Fireside North/South units. Dogs must be crated if left alone—no exceptions. Dogs are not allowed on beds ($100 fee per bed if violated; repeat offenders refused). Dogs may only use designated covered furniture, must be leashed on property at all times, and require up-to-date rabies vaccines. All waste must be immediately picked up and taken to the dumpster.

Dog Amenities: This property has strict but clear policies designed to maintain cleanliness for all guests. Walkable location to downtown Ephraim.

Sister Bay welcomes dogs with exceptional amenities

Sister Bay offers some of Door County's best dog amenities, including the Sister Bay Dog Park (200'×300' fenced area with picnic tables) on Autumn Court. Multiple properties here go above and beyond for canine guests.

Country House Resort ⭐ Top Pick for Dog Amenities

Type: Adults-Only Waterfront Resort | Address: 2468 Sunnyside Road, Sister Bay, WI 54234 | Phone: (920) 854-4551 | Website: countryhouseresort.com

Pet Policy: $20 per dog, per night (non-refundable, charged at arrival). Dogs up to 80 pounds only, 2 dogs maximum. Dogs only—no other pets. You must call to reserve—pet rooms cannot be booked online. A $250 cleaning fee applies if dogs are found in non-designated rooms. Requirements include current rabies vaccination proof, pre-registration of dogs, cell phone number at check-in, and dogs cannot be left unattended.

Dog Amenities: This Forbes-featured resort provides exceptional dog hospitality. A welcome basket at check-in includes towels for dogs, furniture cover sheets, information on local dog-friendly businesses ("Riley's Recommendations"), waste disposal bags, and an all-natural welcome treat. Food and water dishes are provided in rooms, with dog beds available upon request. The property features 1,100 feet of private shoreline with nature trails, an outdoor dog wash station, and unfenced green areas. Pet-friendly room types include One Queen Water View, Two Queen Water View, King Water View, Whirlpool Water View, Carriage House, and First & Second Floor Water View Suites. Adults only (children 13+ welcome).

Open Hearth Lodge ⭐ Dedicated Dog Wing

Type: Lodge | Address: 2669 S Bay Shore Drive, Sister Bay, WI 54234 | Phone: (920) 854-4890 | Website: openhearthlodgedoorcounty.com

Pet Policy: $15 per pet, per night—excellent value for the amenities offered. Any size dogs accepted, 2 dogs per room. Dogs only—no cats. The property features a dedicated 14-room dog-friendly wing. Dogs must be crated if left unattended.

Dog Amenities: Outstanding amenities include food and water bowls, doggy beds, toys, treats at check-in, and poo bags—all provided. The property features a fenced-in off-leash dog area and dedicated dog wash station. Dogs can be walked anywhere on the 42-55 room property, which includes large grassy areas for exercise. Guest amenities include indoor pool, whirlpool, fitness center, continental breakfast, outdoor patio with fire pits, gas grills, and access to hiking/biking trails. Bay Ridge Golf Course sits across the street, with Peninsula State Park a 10-minute drive away.

Nordic Lodge

Type: Lodge | Address: 2721 Nordic Drive, Sister Bay, WI 54234 | Phone: (920) 854-5432 | Website: thenordiclodge.com

Pet Policy: A flat $50 per pet, per stay (not per night)—good value for longer visits. Dogs up to 30 pounds only, 2 dogs maximum. Only 5 designated dog-friendly rooms are available. You must notify the front desk when reserving to ensure a dog room and sign a dog policy agreement at check-in.

Dog Amenities: Grassy area for pet relief on property. The 33-room lodge features indoor pool and whirlpool, outdoor deck, private decks/patios on all rooms, and continental breakfast. Located in a quiet wooded setting between Ephraim and Sister Bay.

Edge of Town Motel

Type: Budget Motel | Address: 11092 State Highway 42, Sister Bay, WI 54234 | Phone: (920) 854-2012

Pet Policy: Pet-friendly—inquire directly for details. Ample grounds available for walking dogs at this mom-and-pop style motel.

Dog Amenities: 10 spacious rooms with A/C, refrigerators, and microwaves. Continental breakfast in office with 24/7 office access. Rates: $40-$95/night—the most budget-friendly option in Sister Bay.

Shoreline Resort & Condos (Gills Rock)

Type: Waterfront Resort | Address: 12747 Highway 42, Gills Rock | Phone: (920) 854-2900 | Website: theshorelineresort.com

Pet Policy: Pet-friendly with pre-approval—contact property for specific fees and requirements.

Dog Amenities: 14 water view motel rooms plus 1-3 bedroom condos with private balconies and fireplaces. Rates: Motel $69-$159/night; Condos $185-$350/night (seasonal).

Bailey's Harbor offers quiet eastern peninsula escapes

The eastern peninsula provides a more relaxed atmosphere with excellent beach access. Captain Bailey's Dog Park on Summit Road offers fenced areas for both large and small dogs, while Whitefish Dunes State Park features Door County's most pet-friendly beach access.

Beachfront Inn ⭐ Dogs Off-Leash on Private Beach

Type: Hotel/Inn | Address: 8040 Hwy 57, Baileys Harbor, WI 54202 | Phone: (920) 839-2345 | Website: beachfrontinn.net

Pet Policy: $25 per dog, per night with no size restrictions. 2 dogs permitted in designated rooms—the entire first floor is dog-friendly. Dogs only—no cats. Guests must sign a dog waiver, and dogs must be leashed in public areas.

Dog Amenities: The standout feature: dogs are allowed off-leash on the private sand beach and in the water—a rare find in Door County. Doggie waste bags provided throughout property. Dogs are not permitted in the pool area or non-dog rooms. Walking distance to Captain Bailey's Dog Park and close to Whitefish Dunes State Park and Ridges Sanctuary (dogs on leash on trails).

Baileys Sunset Motel & Cottages ⭐ All Units Pet-Friendly

Type: Motel and Cottages | Address: Bailey's Harbor (7 wooded acres) | Phone: (920) 839-2218 | Website: baileysunsetmotelandcottages.com

Pet Policy: $15 per day with no size restrictions. All rooms and cottages are pet-friendly—the most accommodating property in Bailey's Harbor. Both dogs and cats are welcome, and multiple pets are allowed. Pets must be crated if left unattended and are not allowed on furniture.

Dog Amenities: Treats and waste bags available at front desk. Grassy pet relief area on property with nature trails for walks across 7 wooded acres featuring wildflowers and fruit trees. Fire pits and picnic areas available. A 10% military/first responder discount applies, and cottages include kitchenettes.

Door County Scotland Yard Bed & Breakfast

Type: B&B | Address: Bailey's Harbor (5-acre wooded property) | Website: doorcountyscotlandyard.com

Pet Policy: Pet-friendly "Scottie Room" available—contact directly for specific policy details. Scottish Terrier-themed décor for dog lovers, walking distance to downtown Bailey's Harbor.

Beantown Campground ⭐ No Pet Fees for Cabins

Type: Campground with Cabins | Address: 8398 County Road F, Baileys Harbor, WI 54202 | Phone: (920) 839-1439 | Website: beantowncampground.com

Pet Policy: No pet fees for cabins—just a $20 charge for not cleaning up after pets. Dogs must stay on leash (max 6 feet) at all times. Note: The 17ft RV rental does not allow pets.

Pet-Friendly Cabin Rates:

• Sleeping Cabin: $125/night (double/single bunk, lofted twin, futon, microwave, mini fridge)

• 3BR Cabin: $170/night

Dog Amenities: Walking area for dogs, close to Lake Michigan for kayaking, 1 mile from downtown Bailey's Harbor. Heated pool, playground, and restaurant on-site.

Jacksonport and Egg Harbor round out the eastern peninsula

These quieter communities offer access to Cave Point County Park and various camping options with dog-friendly accommodations.

Innlet Motel (Jacksonport)

Type: Motel | Address: 6263 Hwy 57, Jacksonport, WI | Phone: (920) 823-2499 | Website: innlet-motel.com

Pet Policy: $15 per night additional fee. Any size pets accepted in designated pet-friendly rooms. Both dogs and cats are welcome.

Dog Amenities: Located across from Jacksonport beach with park access and walking distance to Lake Michigan shore. Restaurant/pub (Mike's Port Pub) adjacent. Frisbee golf course on property. Minutes to wineries, breweries, and Cave Point County Park (3.7 miles).

HTR Door County (Egg Harbor) ⭐ On-Site Dog Park

Type: Campground, Cabins, Cottages, A-Frames | Address: 8164 Wisconsin 42, Egg Harbor, WI 54209 | Phone: (920) 868-3278 | Website: htrdoorcounty.com

Pet Policy: $10 per pet, per night—among the lowest fees in Door County. 2 dogs maximum, any size welcome. Dogs only—cats not allowed. Dogs may not be left unattended. Note: Glamping Tents are NOT pet-friendly.

Pet-Friendly Accommodation Types:

• 2-Bedroom Cottages

• Rustic Cabins (sleeps 6)

• A-Frame Cabins

• RV Sites (Executive, Premium, Deluxe)

• Tent Sites

Dog Amenities: Features an on-site dog park—rare for accommodations in Door County. Fire pits, picnic tables, heated outdoor pool, arcade, and nature trails. Near Whitefish Dunes State Park.

Door County Cottages (Egg Harbor) ⭐ No Pet Fees

Type: Deluxe Cabin Rentals | Address: Egg Harbor, WI | Phone: (920) 868-2300 | Website: doorcountycottages.com | Email: dccottages55@gmail.com

Pet Policy: No extra fee to bring your dog, and all sizes welcome—a rare find in Door County. 6 deluxe cabin rentals (Lodge, Elise, Elena, Fieldstone, Lincoln, Gretna).

Dog Amenities: A mile-long nature trail on property for dog walking. Cottages feature wood burning stoves with glass doors, whirlpool tubs (2 have saunas), radiant floor heating, A/C, fully equipped kitchens, and outdoor decks with Weber grills and fire pits.

Harbor Hounds Dog Park (Egg Harbor)

Location: Village View Park, Egg Harbor

Located centrally in Egg Harbor, this 2-acre fenced dog park features separate areas for large and small dogs—perfect for burning off energy after travel.

Washington Island brings dogs across the water

Washington Island is the only Door County island with traditional lodging. The Washington Island Ferry welcomes leashed pets on the main decks free of charge. The ferry departs from Northport Pier in Ellison Bay for a 30-minute, 5-mile crossing. The Rock Island Ferry (Karfi) also allows leashed pets at no charge for travel from Washington Island to Rock Island State Park.

Steffen's Cedar Lodge ⭐ No Pet Fee, Any Size

Type: Lodge and Cabins | Address: 1070 Old West Harbor Road, Washington Island, WI 54246 | Phone: (920) 535-0126 | Starting Rate: $83/night

Pet Policy: Dogs of any size allowed with no additional fee—the best value on the island. Cats may also be allowed by request. Pets require pre-approval; notify the property of type and number of pets when booking.

Dog Amenities: Private beach access, outdoor fireplace and seating area, pier and boat launch, fire pits, BBQ grills, and picnic tables. Protected harbor location with shuttle service to/from ferry dock upon request. 7 units including cabins with kitchenettes featuring microwave, fridge, and stove.

Gibson's West Harbor Resort

Type: Historic Resort (since 1917) | Address: 2206 West Harbor Road, Washington Island, WI 54246 | Phone: (920) 847-2225 | Website: gibsonswestharbor.com | Rates: $30-$100/night

Pet Policy: Pets allowed in housekeeping cottages only—not in main house rooms. Pet fee applies (contact property for exact amount). 6 cottages available: 3 beachfront on Green Bay, 3 overlooking West Harbor.

Dog Amenities: Large yard and playground equipment for dogs to run, plus 1,000+ feet of shorefront with pebble beach access on Green Bay. Fire pits, canoes, kayaks, and rowboats available. Open year-round.

Washington Island Campground

Type: Campground with Cabins | Address: 745 Eastside Road, Washington Island, WI 54246 | Phone: (920) 847-2622 | Website: washingtonislandcampground.com | Season: Opens May 16

Pet Policy: 8 pet-friendly rustic cabins available at $10/night per pet. Dogs must be kept on leash and are not allowed in the swimming pond. Important: Deluxe cabins, Premium cabin, and travel trailer rental do NOT allow pets.

Cabin Rates (Pet-Friendly):

• Rustic Cabins WITHOUT toilets: $95/night + tax (includes sink, bunks, futon, microwave, mini fridge)

• Rustic Cabins WITH toilets: $125/night + tax

Campsite Pet Policy:

• Tent sites: $30/night—pets allowed on leash

• Electric & Water sites: $45/night—pets allowed on leash

Dog Amenities: Large grounds for walking, swimming pond (dogs not allowed), walking trails nearby, mini-golf course, volleyball, and playground.

Rock Island State Park (Primitive Camping)

Access: Karfi ferry from Jackson Harbor on Washington Island | Phone: (920) 847-2235

Pet Policy: Dogs allowed in designated campsites only (sites A-E and 1-19). 8-foot leash maximum required. Pets not allowed in other campsites. No vehicles or bicycles allowed on island—all supplies must be carried in.

Dog Amenities: 40 primitive walk-in tent sites with 10+ miles of hiking trails and 5,000 feet of undeveloped beachfront including dog-allowed sandy beach areas. Pit toilets, fire rings, and drinking water available. Features Pottawatomie Lighthouse—Wisconsin's oldest (1836).

Washington Island dog-friendly beaches and parks

All island shoreline can be explored on-leash:

• School House Beach: White polished limestone rocks (stay by picnic area)

• Jackson Harbor Ridges Beach: Sandy dunes, shallow warm water, 9 acres

• Percy Johnson Memorial Park Beach: Sandy beach, picnic shelters, wooded trails, 5 acres

• Gislason Beach: Detroit Harbor, playground, picnic area

• Washington Island Stavkirke: Dogs welcome on grounds (not inside)

Vacation rentals expand your options across Door County

Beyond traditional accommodations, 373+ pet-friendly vacation rentals are available on VRBO alone, with hundreds more on Airbnb and through local property management companies.

Major platforms for pet-friendly rentals

VRBO (vrbo.com) lists 373 pet-friendly properties across Door County. Use the "Pet-Friendly" filter and include pets in the "Guest" field when booking. Pet fees typically range from $20-$100 per pet per stay. Properties available in all Door County communities.

Airbnb (airbnb.com) offers numerous pet-friendly options including properties where dogs stay free. Filter by "Pets allowed" to find options. Common policies include maximum 2 dogs, crating when unsupervised, and fees from $15-$99 per pet per stay.

Rent Door County

Phone: (920) 854-4865 | Website: rentdoorcounty.com | Email: reservations@rentdoorcounty.com

Offers 13 designated pet-friendly properties with a "Pet Friendly" search filter. Notable properties include:

• Zivjeli House: Lake Michigan beachfront, 5BR/3BA, sleeps 10, 360 feet of beach frontage

• Fish Creek Beach House: Walking distance to town, 5BR/2.5BA, sleeps 12, 2 dogs maximum

• Rocky Bottom Lodge: Bailey's Harbor, 4BR/4BA, sleeps 12

• Beach Camp: Glidden Drive, Lake Michigan beachfront, 4BR/3BA, sleeps 8

Coverage spans Bailey's Harbor, Egg Harbor, Ephraim, Fish Creek, Gills Rock, Jacksonport, Sister Bay, Sturgeon Bay, and more.

Simple Life Rentals

Website: simpleliferentals.com/dog-friendly-vacation-rentals

Philosophy: "We believe every journey should include our four-legged companions." Notable pet-friendly properties:

• Three Little Birds Cottage: Sturgeon Bay, 3 wooded acres, 2 dogs allowed

• Eagle Harbor Retreat: Ephraim, sleeps 6 + family dog

• The Log Home of Fish Creek: 4BR, two living spaces, outdoor decks

• Cedar Cove Cottage: Lake Helen shorefront

• Fish Creek Farmhouse: 1906 retreat near Peninsula State Park entrance

Door County Cottages

Phone: (920) 868-2300 | Website: doorcountycottages.com | Location: Egg Harbor

6 deluxe cabin rentals with no extra pet fee and all sizes welcome. Cottages (Lodge, Elise, Elena, Fieldstone, Lincoln, Gretna) feature whirlpool tubs, saunas, wood-burning stoves, and a mile-long nature trail on property.

Door County's dog parks and outdoor adventures

Door County offers 5 fenced dog parks plus extensive trail access in state and county parks.

Dedicated dog parks

Park Location Features Shiloh Road Bark Park Sturgeon Bay 4 acres fenced, 24-hour access, separate large/small dog areas Sister Bay Dog Park Autumn Court, Sister Bay 200'×300' fenced, picnic tables Captain Bailey's Dog Park Summit Road, Bailey's Harbor Fenced, separate large/small dog areas Harbor Hounds Dog Park Village View Park, Egg Harbor 2 acres, separate large/small dog areas

State parks with dog access

Whitefish Dunes State Park is Door County's most pet-friendly state park, with dogs allowed on beach areas—unusual for Wisconsin state parks.

Peninsula State Park welcomes leashed dogs on most trails including White Cedar Nature Trail and Pine Picnic Area. Dogs prohibited on sandy beach, some trails, and inside buildings.

Newport State Park allows dogs on trails and sandy shoreline areas in this wilderness park setting.

Potawatomi State Park permits dogs on trails including segments of the Ice Age Trail.

Quick-reference fee comparison by town

Town Property Pet Fee Size Limit Max Pets Sturgeon Bay Holiday Music Motel $10/night Any 2 Beach Harbor Resort $15/night Any 2 Lodge at Leathem Smith $25/night Any 2 Fish Creek Julie's Park Cafe & Motel $15/night Any Multiple Peninsula Park-View $15/night Any 2 Fresh Coast Motel $50 one-time Any 1 Ephraim Somerset Inn & Suites $35 one-time Any 2 Edgewater Resort $30/night + $100 deposit Any 3 Sister Bay Open Hearth Lodge $15/night Any 2 Country House Resort $20/night 80 lbs 2 Nordic Lodge $50/stay 30 lbs 2 Bailey's Harbor Baileys Sunset Motel $15/day Any Multiple Beachfront Inn $25/night Any 2 Beantown Campground FREE Any - Egg Harbor HTR Door County $10/night Any 2 Door County Cottages FREE Any - Washington Island Steffen's Cedar Lodge FREE Any - WI Campground Cabins $10/night Any -

Essential booking tips for traveling with dogs

Call ahead: Most properties require advance notice for pet rooms and many cannot book pet-friendly accommodations online. Country House Resort, Settlement Courtyard Inn, and Edgewater Resort specifically require phone reservations for dogs.

Book early: Pet-friendly rooms represent a small fraction of total inventory and fill quickly, especially during peak summer and fall color seasons.

Verify current policies: Fees and restrictions change; confirm current rates directly with properties before booking.

Bring documentation: Many properties require proof of current rabies vaccination.

Pack appropriately: Bring your dog's crate (often required if leaving dogs unattended), water bowl, waste bags, and a blanket or bed—dogs typically aren't allowed on rental furniture.

Check weight limits: Some properties restrict dogs to 30, 50, or 80 pounds. Nordic Lodge (30 lbs) and Country House Resort (80 lbs) have firm limits.

Conclusion

Door County has earned its reputation as one of the Midwest's most welcoming destinations for dog owners. From the Open Hearth Lodge's dedicated dog wing with fenced off-leash area to the Beachfront Inn's private beach where dogs run free, accommodations across the peninsula genuinely welcome four-legged family members. The best values include properties charging no pet fees—Door County Cottages, Steffen's Cedar Lodge, and Beantown Campground cabins—while properties like Country House Resort justify higher fees with exceptional amenities including welcome baskets, dog wash stations, and 1,100 feet of private shoreline.

For the most seamless experience, book by phone rather than online, confirm vaccination requirements before arrival, and target properties with outdoor dog amenities—fenced areas, wash stations, and direct beach or trail access make all the difference. Whether you're seeking a waterfront cottage in Ephraim, a historic island lodge on Washington Island, or a convenient chain hotel in Sturgeon Bay, Door County ensures your dog is as welcome as you are.