Dog-Friendly Places in Walworth & Jefferson Counties
Traveling with your pup this summer? Walworth & Jefferson Counties are full of places your pooch (and you!) will love. From parks and trails to dog-friendly lodging and establishments, we’ve got you covered!
Trails
Ice Age Trail - Walworth & Jefferson County Segments
This 1200mi footpath offers beauty to the hiker and much to explore for your pup! The Walworth & Jefferson Counties section of the trail consists of the Blue Spring Lake Segment, Blackhawk Segment, Whitewater Lake Segment, and Clover Valley Segment with a 4.9-mile connecting route. Keep your dog leashed (8-ft maximum length) and under control at all times.
Glacial Drumlin State Trail - Jefferson
This gravel/paved “rail-trail” is a popular spot, not only for bikers and skaters, but walkers with their pups, too! Enjoy bridge crossings over the Rock and Crawfish Rivers. Please keep doggo on a leash no longer than 6ft.
Glacial River Trail - Fort Atkinson
This paved trail traverses hills, valleys, and city/rural streets. Perfect for an afternoon stroll with your pup. Stop at the picnic area for you and your dog to take a drink from the fountain and relax.
UW-Whitewater Nature Preserve - Whitewater
The Nature Preserve boasts over five miles of trails through a variety of ecosystems, including woodlands, wetlands, prairie, and others. Bike, hike, or walk these beautiful trails with pup in tow!
Hikes and Hounds Monthly Hikes on the Nordic Trail - Whitewater
These monthly hikes bring together amazing dogs and their humans so you can enjoy making new friends on the beautiful Nordic Trail of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Visit The Sweet Spot Cafe after for refueling and a rest on their outdoor patio.
Parks
Run around with your pup at any one of these beautiful parks in diverse terrains. Fenced-off Whitewater Bark Park and Jefferson County Dog Park allow fido to roam free, however, they need registration! Keep your pup on a leash at the other parks listed except if they are going to swim at Rice Lake Picnic Area, Rice Lake Park & Boat Launch (right side of the pier), or Oak Hollow Pet Area (cross the street and follow the path down the hill to an open play area and swimming spot).
Jefferson County Dog Park - Hwy 26 between Jefferson & Johnson Creek
Dorothy Carnes County Park - Fort Atkinson
Burnt Village Park - Fort Atkinson
Whitewater Bark Park - Whitewater
Natureland - Whitewater
Dr. O.R. Rice Picnic Area - Whitewater
Rice Lake Park & Boat Launch - Whitewater
Oak Hollow Pet Area - Whitewater
📸: DNR
📸: Jones Dairy Bar
Sunset Bar & Grill - Fort Atkinson
Outdoor seating is in the sand, so be sure to walk your dog beforehand! Beautiful view of Lake Koshkonong with classic bar foods, pizza, and live music.
Center Street Cafe - Whitewater
Quaint, cozy coffee shop with good eats in downtown Whitewater. Pup is allowed inside while you lounge. Pop over to Cravath Lakefront Park just down the street for a lakeside walk before or after!
The Sweet Spot Cafe & The Bakehouse - Whitewater
Grab coffee and a breakfast sandwich and chill in their outdoor seating areas. Make sure to treat your dog to a pupcake!
📸: The Sweet Spot Cafe
Second Salem Brewing Co. - Whitewater
Relax with your pup and a craft brew on the colorful patio overlooking Cravath Lake.
The Book Teller - Whitewater
Bring your fur baby along to check out beautiful giftable wares by local artisans and purchase a few used books to curl up and read with your dog in a plush chair for the afternoon
Culver's - Whitewater
A classic WI burger and your doggo enjoying the summer sun? Yes, please!
Fanatico - Whitewater
You and your pup can enjoy a romantic night out eating Italian at Fanatico's outdoor patio.
Stable Rock Winery & Distillery - Jefferson
Tasting flights, German-inspired food, and your pup enjoying the Rock River = perfect evening.
📸: Staller Estate Winery
Staller Estate Winery - Delavan
Let your doggo enjoy a Pup Cup or an all-natural treat from Ma and Pa's Treats and sip your favorite win
Lodging
Whether hotel or cozy bed and breakfast, these three spots let your pup join in on the rest away from home.
Best Western Plus - Jefferson
Holiday Inn Express - Fort Atkinson
Hamilton House B&B - Whitewater
Happy dog days of summer, folks!