Columbia, SC, is a city that offers plenty of opportunities for dog owners to enjoy life with their pets. From dog parks to pet-friendly cafes, Columbia is an excellent place to live with your four-legged friend. 

However, if you're like many dog owners, there comes a time when you and your dog crave a break from the familiar cityscape. At Barkwells, we provide the perfect dog-centric mountain escape, just a short drive away in Asheville and Brevard, North Carolina.

We understand the needs of both you and your dog because our focus isn’t just on being pet-friendly – we’re dog-centric. When you choose to stay with us, you're not only picking a place where your dog is allowed; you're choosing a vacation spot where your dog can run freely, explore, and enjoy life in a safe and welcoming environment designed especially for them.

Let’s take a closer look at why Barkwells is the best vacation spot for dog owners in Columbia, SC, and why we believe your next getaway should include a stay at our unique, dog-centric retreat in the Western North Carolina mountains.

Why Columbia, SC, Is a Great Place for Dog Owners

If you’re living in Columbia, you know it’s a great place to have a furry friend. Whether you're walking through the beautiful streets of Shandon or hanging out at your favorite local coffee shop, there's no shortage of dog-friendly activities to enjoy in this charming Southern city. Some reasons our Columbia-based guests love their hometown include:

• Numerous Dog Parks: Columbia is home to several fantastic dog parks. Sesquicentennial State Park and Emily Douglas Park are favorites for off-leash adventures, allowing dogs to run, play, and socialize with other pets.
• Pet-Friendly Restaurants and Breweries: Columbia boasts a wide variety of dog-friendly restaurants and breweries, from the laid-back vibe of Hunter-Gatherer Brewery to Café Strudel, where you and your dog can enjoy outdoor seating. There's no need to leave your furry friend behind when dining out in Columbia.
• Walkability and Trails: The Three Rivers Greenway provides miles of shaded walking trails, perfect for strolling with your dog alongside scenic rivers. Columbia also offers plenty of shaded, walkable neighborhoods that make daily dog walks pleasant and enjoyable.

Your Perfect Dog-Friendly Vacation at Barkwells is Just Hours from Columbia, SC

While Columbia’s amenities make it a great place for dog owners, sometimes you and your pup need a break from the routine. When it’s time to escape the city, head to Barkwells in Asheville and Brevard, where you’ll both find new experiences, fresh air, and the kind of relaxation that only comes from being surrounded by nature.

1. Barkwells is a Short Drive from Columbia, SC, in the Mountains of Western North Carolina

One of the best things about planning a dog-friendly vacation to Barkwells is how easy it is to get here from Columbia. In just 2.5 to 3 hours, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the North Carolina mountains, far away from the stress and noise of the city. 

This quick road trip offers the perfect balance between convenience and adventure – just pack up the car, bring your dog, and in a few hours, you’ll arrive at your peaceful, private cabin in the mountains.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a week-long retreat, you’ll love how accessible Barkwells is for Columbia residents. The drive is easy, and once you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another world, where the air is cooler, the scenery is stunning, and relaxation comes naturally.

2. A Mountain Vacation is Great for Dog Owners

There’s something special about the mountains, especially when it comes to vacationing with your dog. The wide-open spaces, fresh mountain air, and peaceful surroundings provide the perfect contrast to city life. Here’s why a mountain retreat at Barkwells is ideal for dog owners:

• Cooler Climate: Columbia’s summers can be sweltering, but the higher elevation of Asheville and Brevard means cooler temperatures and more comfortable outdoor activities for both you and your dog.
• Natural Beauty: Western North Carolina is known for its stunning landscapes, from rolling hills to majestic mountains. You and your dog will love exploring the area’s forests, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails.
• Outdoor Adventure: If your dog loves the outdoors, there’s no better place to visit than the mountains. Whether you want to hike, swim, or simply enjoy the views, the region offers endless opportunities for outdoor fun.

3. Barkwells is A Dog-Centric Vacation Experience Near Columbia

When we say that Barkwells is dog-centric, we mean it. Our goal is to create a vacation experience where your dog isn’t just allowed – they’re the star of the show. Every detail of our property, from the design of our cabins to the amenities we offer, is centered around making sure your dog has as much fun as you do.

At Barkwells, we don’t just accommodate pets; we cater to them. That’s what sets us apart from other vacation destinations. Here’s what you and your dog can expect when you stay with us:

• Private, Fenced Yards: Each of our luxurious cabins comes with its own private, fenced yard, so your dog can roam and play safely off-leash without ever leaving your sight.
• Off-Leash Dog Park: We offer a large, secure dog park where your dog can run freely, meet other dogs, and enjoy some serious playtime.
• Dog-Centric Amenities: We provide all the comforts your dog needs, from dog beds and bowls to plenty of outdoor space to explore. We’ve thought of everything to make your pet feel at home.
• Pond for Swimming: Many dogs love water, and we’ve got a dog-friendly pond on-site where your dog can splash and swim to their heart’s content.

When you stay at Barkwells, you won’t have to worry about finding dog-friendly activities because everything on our property is designed with your dog in mind. It’s a vacation where you can truly relax, knowing that your pet is enjoying the experience just as much as you are.

The Benefits of a Year-Round Dog-Friendly Vacation at Barkwells

Whether you’re planning a summer getaway or a winter retreat, Barkwells offers a dog-friendly vacation experience in every season. Each time of year brings its own unique charm to the North Carolina mountains, and no matter when you visit, there’s always something special to enjoy.

1. Summer Fun in the Mountains

When the temperatures in Columbia start to climb, head to Barkwells to enjoy cooler weather in the mountains. Summer is the perfect time for swimming in our pond, hiking the nearby trails, and lounging on your cabin’s porch while your dog runs in the yard.

2. Fall Adventures with Your Dog

Fall is a magical time to visit Western North Carolina, with vibrant foliage and crisp air making it an ideal season for outdoor exploration. You and your dog can take scenic drives through the Blue Ridge Parkway, hike through colorful forests, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of the mountains.

3. Cozy Winter Getaways with Your Furry Friend

Even in the winter, Barkwells provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Snuggle up by the fire in your cabin, take peaceful walks through the snow-covered landscape, and enjoy the stillness of the mountains. Your dog will love exploring the property’s wide-open spaces, even in the colder months.

4. Springtime Getaways are Full of Color

Spring brings blooming flowers and lush greenery to the mountains, making it a beautiful time for a rejuvenating vacation. The trails are perfect for morning walks with your dog, and the mild weather makes it easy to spend your days outdoors.

Why Columbia Dog Owners Love Staying at Barkwells

Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of welcoming many guests from Columbia, SC, and one thing we’ve noticed is that they appreciate the contrast between city life and the serenity of the mountains. 

At Barkwells, we provide the kind of retreat that’s hard to find in an urban setting – one where both you and your dog can relax, unwind, and enjoy each other’s company in a peaceful, natural environment.

Here’s what our Columbia guests love about staying at Barkwells:

• Close to Home: At just 2.5 to 3 hours from Columbia, Barkwells is a convenient option for a quick getaway. You don’t have to travel far to enjoy a completely different landscape and atmosphere.
• Dog-Centric Experience: Many of our guests tell us that they’ve never experienced a vacation that’s so focused on the happiness of their dog. From the fenced yards to the dog-friendly hiking trails, Barkwells offers everything you need to ensure that your dog has a fun, safe, and exciting vacation.
• Relaxation and Adventure: Whether you’re looking to relax in your cabin or embark on a new adventure, Barkwells provides the best of both worlds. You can take it easy and enjoy the peace and quiet or explore the beauty of the surrounding area with your dog by your side.

Book Your Dog-Centric Vacation at Barkwells Today

Are you ready to take a break from city life and treat your dog to a vacation they’ll love? We’d be thrilled to welcome you and your pet to Barkwells, where every detail is designed with your dog in mind. Whether you’re looking for a summer escape, a fall adventure, or a cozy winter retreat, Barkwells is the perfect destination for dog owners in Columbia, SC.

With our convenient location, luxurious accommodations, and dog-centric amenities, we’re confident that your stay at Barkwells will be a vacation you and your dog will never forget. Book your stay today, and experience the difference a dog-centric vacation can make. We can’t wait to welcome you to the mountains of North Carolina!

Please reach out if you have any questions about traveling from Columbia to Barkwells with your dog!