If you’re a dog owner who’s always up for a new adventure with your furry friend, look no further than Knox County. With our numerous trails, wide open green spaces, and gorgeous waterways, adventure awaits around every corner.
To start your visit, stop by the Gambier Dog Park located just down the hill from Kenyon College’s beautiful campus. Created in 2008, this three-acre plot of lush, green grass is a great spot for both dog and owner alike to meet new friends. The park is also fenced in, giving your pet plenty of room to explore and roam off leash. Next, head over to the Kokosing Gap Trail conveniently located just a few hundred feet away. No matter which way you go, this paved trail will take you and your four-legged friend through rolling hills and show off the most stunning landscapes that Knox County has to offer.
Once you’ve hiked as much as you like, hop off the trail and head into town for a quick bite at the Gambier Deli. After you’ve ordered, enjoy your meal outside on the patio with your dog. Walk your lunch off around Kenyon College campus by following the Gund Gallery’s Public Art Tour. With 14 stops around campus, this is a great way to explore campus, take in some unique art and get some steps in with your furry sidekick.
If your companion is needing to rest and recharge, journey about 10 minutes down the road to Mount Vernon and visit the iconic Dog Fountain at South Main Plaza. Here your dog can enjoy the spray of the fountain and even get some water from a drinking fountain intentionally created at dog-height. This is also a great opportunity to snap a photo to commemorate the trip.
Other dog friendly stops in downtown…
Fat Dog Vinyl- Perfect for the owner looking to update their record collection or score some rare vinyl. Not to mention the cutest pup shaped topiaries in their front display.
Paragraphs Bookstore- Enjoy the dog fountain? Our friends at Paragraphs has Dog Fountain posters for sale, along with some cute dog bandanas.
Pine Row Studio- The makers at Pine Row are known to make brilliant pieces of art, but dog lovers may also be able to find a handcrafted dog bowl or two. What a souvenir!
Happy Street Brũ Werks- A huge patio for you and your four legged friend to enjoy some home brews and live music.
Y-Not Cycling- While more focused on the cyclist, this shop always has a fresh bowl of water out for its four legged visitors.
Ready to turn in for the day? No worries, Knox County has plenty of pet-friendly lodging options. If you’re looking to stay somewhere unique and secluded, make a reservation at The Mohicans Treehouse Resort near Glenmont. Pets are allowed in the cabins for a small fee and your dog will have plenty of room to play and explore the surrounding woods. Prefer a quaint BnB? Check out Danville’s White Oak Inn. This bed and breakfast offers two pet friendly rooms in the guesthouse that you can reserve for a small fee. As a bonus, all breakfasts and dinners are made fresh from local produce. If a traditional hotel is more your style, head over to Mount Vernon’s Comfort Inn. All rooms are pet friendly and the building is conveniently located directly next to the Kokosing Gap Trail and the Heart of Ohio Trail.
No matter where you choose to stay, you can’t leave Knox County without experiencing one of our beautiful waterways. If your companion loves hitting the water, you’re in for a real treat since the Koksoing State Scenic River and the Mohican State Scenic River flow through Knox County. After enjoying a good night’s sleep, head to the river(s) or head over to Knox Lake for some fishing while your dog takes a swim.
And while we can’t wait to show you around, below are some general rules when traveling the local trails and parks with your favorite friend.
On-Leash Only: Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times in all parks except for the designated off-leash Bark Park at Wolf Run Regional Park.
Cleanup Required: Pet Owners must clean up after their dogs in all areas of the park. Plastic bags for pet waste disposal are provided at dispensers within most parks.
We hope you have a paw-sitively great visit here in Knox County!
Written by Faith West
