Big Bend National Park

If exploring southwestern Texas has always been on your pup's barket list, it's time to plan a trip to Big Bend National Park! Located in the Far West along the Texas-Mexico border, this massive, 800,000-plus-acre site draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year with its puptacular beauty and myriad activities. This must-visit destination comprises several pawsome geographical features, including the Chihuahuan Desert, Rio Grande, Chisos Mountains, Persimmon Gap, and Boquillas Canyon!

Because Big Bend is too big to see in one day (it's larger than the state of Rhode Island!), it's highly recommended to have an itinerary before you go. Another impawtant thing to note is that except for service animals, canine visitors are not allowed on trails, off roads, or on the river, in order to protect the park's nearly 600 wildlife species. But not to worry, as Fido can still tag along to places that can be reached by car. Furtunately, there are a number of scenic drives to enjoy at Big Bend, including the 6-mile Chisos Basin Road, which offers puptastic views of the mountain peaks and basin area as it winds up 2,000 feet above the desert floor. Whether you opt for a leisurely cruise on a paved road or a rugged adventure on a dirt road, you and your pooch will be treated to infinite pawmazing sights!

If you and Fido plan to spend a few days at Big Bend, there are four campgrounds where you can make yourselves at home. The largest one is the Rio Grande Village Campground, which is nestled in a big grove of cottonwoods on the Rio Grande. To keep campers happy, it is equipped with running water, flush toilets, picnic tables, grills, overhead shelters, and a dump station. Keep in mind that dogs may not be left unattended in the campground, so someone else will have to stay with your pup should you decide to hit the nearby nature trail. No matter which parts of the park you find yourselves in, always keep your canine pal on a 6-foot leash and clean up after them.

An unfurgettable experience awaits at Big Bend National Park!