Cumberland Bay State Park

Planning a pet-friendly camping vacation in upstate New York but not sure where to stay? Cumberland Bay State Park, located in Plattsburgh in Clinton counties, is well worth considering. This pretty and peaceful park not only offers beautiful surrounds and a host of recreational activities, but it also boasts a pet-friendly campground.

The park is tucked away on the Cumberland Head peninsula on the western shore of Lake Champlain, a freshwater lake that straddles the US/Canada border. There's a 2,700-foot natural sand beach which is usually a hive of activity in summer, with swimmers looking to escape the heat and sunbathers working on their tans. Fishing and boating are also popular pastimes on the lake, making the park a favorite destination for water sports enthusiasts.

If you'd rather stay on dry land, why not go for a scenic hike? The park is particularly popular with cross-country runners, especially in the fall, so make sure you pack your running shoes.

Other park features include a playground, playing fields, and picnic areas, along with a campground that includes more than 130 sites. A $7 vehicle entrance fee applies, while camping costs vary from $15 to $29 per night. Dogs are welcome in the campground, but please be aware that a two-pet maximum applies to each site.

If traveling with your dog, you'll need to be able to provide proof of their current rabies vaccination. Your dog will also need to be kept on a leash of six feet or shorter, and you'll have to ensure that you properly dispose of their waste. As always, show courtesy to other park users and make sure your dog is well-behaved and under control at all times.

If you can take care of these simple yet important responsibilities, there's nothing to stop you enjoying a paw-some getaway with your canine pal.