East Canyon State Park

Tucked away among rolling hills, East Canyon State Park is a hidden gem in Morgan County, Utah. From watersports and wildlife watching to a host of other recreational activities, there's a whole lot to see and do with your dog in this paw-some park.

The main attraction of East Canyon State Park is the 684-acre East Canyon Reservoir. This pristine patch of water is popular for boating, swimming, and fishing for trout, smallmouth bass and a host of other species.

But there's a whole heap more to experience away from the water. You and your dog can explore a four-mile trail that's perfect for hiking in the warmer months, but better suited to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter. And with the park at an elevation of 5,700 feet, you can explore everything from sage grass and shrubs surrounding the reservoir to mountain slopes covered with sagebrush, juniper and scrub oak.

Wildlife in the park is also diverse, with mule deer, elk, and moose frequently sighted, along with bobcats, porcupines and many species of birds.

Day-use fees are $10 from Monday through to Thursday and $15 on Fridays, weekends, and holidays. However, if you're looking to stay the night, East Canyon State Park features two campgrounds: Dixie Creek Campground in the north and Big Rock Campground in the south. The Dixie Creek Campground features 33 sites with full and partial RV Hookups, while the more primitive Big Rock Campground is a better spot for escaping the crowds. Cabins and yurts are also available but aren't pet-friendly.

Your dog is welcome to join you in the rest of the park, however (excluding park buildings), provided they're on a leash of less than six feet and under your control at all times. You'll also need to clean up after your pet and leave this beautiful park the same way you found it.

That way, East Canyon State Park will continue to welcome dog lovers and their furry friends for years to come.