With pet-friendly camping and cabins in a scenic region of Pennsylvania's Clear Creek Valley, Clear Creek State Park offers excellent fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking opportunities.
It's bordered by the Clarion River and offers a 180-foot sand beach for swimming -- a popular spot during summer. There's a public boat launch for canoeists and kayakers wanting to tackle the Class 1 river, while anglers can target trout, panfish, and warm-water game fish.
If you want to explore on foot, the park provides access to 25 miles of trails. The popular Clear Creek Trail runs for 1.4 miles and traverses the length of the park, while those looking for something a little more strenuous may want to tackle the steep hill on the 1.9-mile Hunter Trail.
Located in a peaceful woodland setting, the Clear Creek State Park campground is open from the second Friday in April until the third Friday in December. There are 53 campsites with their own picnic tables and fire rings, and 40 of those sites feature electric hookups. Showers, toilets, and a dump station are provided, and two sites are ADA accessible. However, dogs are only allowed on certain sites, so take care when booking your spot.
There are also 22 rustic cabins located near the river, each of which boasts beds, heating, a microwave, and a refrigerator. Four of these cabins welcome dogs.
There are no entrance fees for Pennsylvania state parks, but accommodation costs vary depending on the site you select. Pets are permitted on designated campsites (sites 31-53) for an additional fee of $2 per night. If you're planning to stay in one of the park's four pet-friendly rustic cabins, please be aware that you'll need to pay an additional fee of $5 per night.
A two-pet maximum applies to campsites and cabins, and your pooch will need to be on a leash when not confined to your accommodation. You'll also need to dispose of your pet's waste at all times.
There are a couple of downsides you should be aware of before visiting this park. Some campsites aren't the largest, and the campground can get quite busy in the summer months. If you're craving privacy and seclusion, you're better off looking elsewhere.
But if these drawbacks aren't dealbreakers for you and your furry friend, make sure you pay Clear Creek State Park a visit! It's a pretty spot and offers tons of recreational opportunities, so you and your dog will find paw-lenty to enjoy.