1. Your dog will LOVE staying at Four Paws Kingdom Campground
I can’t say enough good things about Four Paws Kingdom. You can bring your own RV, rent one of theirs, or rent a cabin. Each option comes with a fenced outdoor area for your pup! I opted for a cabin and was not disappointed. Max and I stayed in “Forest.” He was so excited to be there he couldn’t wait to get inside and check it out. I love that there is a fenced area where I can have a fire and he can walk around/do his business.
The campground also has a short nature trail, a fenced-in “ball park,” a fenced dog park with a swimming pond, an agility park, and a grooming station! We stayed on weekdays, but it looks like the weekends are even more exciting with live music, food trucks, movie nights, and dog menus!
I swear Max wanted to move in here. My only regret is that we did not get back to camp in time to check out the gift shop because it looked like they had some really cool souvenirs.
2. Incredible trails in Pisgah National Forest
Pisgah National Forest is your hub for waterfall hikes! We visited North Carolina in the summer so it was important to me that Max could cool off in water during our hikes. We did the Graveyard Upper Falls Trail, Catawba Falls River Trail, Moore Cove Falls Trail, and the short walk down to see the Looking Glass Waterfall. Our favorite was the Moore Cove Falls, where you could actually walk behind the waterfall!
3. Gorgeous views along the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is the longest linear park in the U.S. The views are breathtaking, and Max had his head out the window the whole drive. There are many outlooks along the road where you can stop and get out to take pictures.
4. Get your dog their very own “paw sundae” at Pink Mama’s
Admittedly, Pink Mama’s Ice Cream is actually in South Carolina. This ice cream stop is about one hour from Rutherfordton, but if you don’t mind the drive you can get your dog a “paw sundae” – vanilla ice cream, peanut butter, and treats!
5. Peaceful trails in Crowders Mountain State Park
Also about one hour from Rutherfordton is Crowders Mountain State Park. I opted for the fern trail and lake trail loop. Both were beautiful and peaceful. Max even played in a small stream and dunked his head in to cool off. Access to the park is free and there is plenty of parking.
