The Dogs We've Loved: Celebrating National Dog Month

The Dogs We've Loved: Celebrating National Dog Month

At Wilmington KOA Holiday, we know dogs are family.

They ride shotgun on road trips, curl up at the campsite after a full day, keep watch from the cabin porch, and somehow make every getaway feel more like home. During National Dog Month, we’re taking a moment to remember a few beloved dogs who are no longer with us, but who will always be part of the Wilmington KOA family.

These are their stories.

Sophie

Sophie loved walking around the campground because it meant being with us. Whatever we were doing, she was happy to be part of it.

She was full of love and shared it freely. She loved people, other dogs, animals, the water, boat rides, and even horse shows. Even our cat could feel Sophie’s love, which is probably why she was always curled up beside her.

Sophie reminded us that the best adventures are less about where you go and more about who comes along.”

Shared by Leigh, one of the humans behind Wilmington KOA.

Ember

Ember loved to go camping. She was perfectly at home at the campground and seemed to know every inch of her domain.

One evening while visiting a different campground, we headed out for one last walk before turning in. Suddenly, an unleashed dog startled us, and I lost hold of Ember’s leash. It was dark, and as I wandered through the campground calling her name and asking people if they had seen her, I completely lost my bearings.

After a very worried search, I finally found my way back to our RV site.

And there was Ember, sitting patiently by the door, waiting for me to find my way back.

Some dogs just know where they belong.

Shared by Kate, one of the humans behind Wilmington KOA.

Chrissy

“Chrissy definitely loved camping. We recently took a longer trip, and not having her with us was difficult. We especially missed our walks around the campground.

One of the little things we’ll always remember is the way she would walk with her nose up, taking in all the campground smells. And, of course, her “happy hops” whenever she got excited about going somewhere.

Especially when that somewhere was camping.

Those little habits are the things you miss most.”

Shared by Micah and Robynn, two of the humans behind Wilmington KOA.

Chester

“Chester loved walking around the campground, but his superpower was watching over his people and offering comfort. He had a sixth sense for knowing when someone near him needed a little extra love.

If someone was sad, sick, stressed, or angry, Chester would quietly move in close and press his body against their leg until they noticed him there. Somehow, he knew how to take your mind off whatever was troubling you.

He should have been a therapy dog.

Some dogs love loudly. Chester loved quietly, exactly when it mattered most.”

Shared by Bonnie, one of the humans behind Wilmington KOA.

Dogs Are Always Welcome Here

At Wilmington KOA Holiday, we see it every day. Dogs are not just tagging along for the trip. They are part of the trip.

They explore the campground, relax beside the RV, nap in the shade, and wait patiently for their next walk, treat, or adventure. That’s why we’re proud to welcome four-legged campers and make it easier for guests to travel with the dogs they love.

Whether you’re staying in an RV site or one of our pet-friendly accommodations, Wilmington KOA gives you a comfortable home base for exploring the Cape Fear coast with your favorite travel companion.

Supporting Buddy by the Sea

This National Dog Month - and every month- we’re proud to support Buddy by the Sea by carrying their apparel in our camp store. With every purchase, 10% of net proceeds go to organizations that provide service dogs to people in need.

It’s fun coastal apparel with a meaningful mission behind it.

Next time you stay with us, stop by the camp store and take a look. You might find your new favorite shirt and help support something much bigger.

Bring Your Best Friend to Wilmington

From campground walks to Bark Park play, shaded sites, cozy cabins, and relaxed evenings outside, Wilmington is a wonderful place to make memories with your dog.

This month, we’re remembering the dogs we’ve loved and lost, and celebrating all the four-legged campers still making memories with their families today.

Ready to plan a dog-friendly stay? Book your Wilmington KOA getaway and bring your best friend along.

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