Joseph H. Stewart State Recreation Area

Covering 910 acres overlooking the clear blue waters of Lost Creek Reservoir, Joseph H. Stewart State Recreation Area offers plenty for day-use visitors, campers, and dog lovers. Surrounded by large conifer trees and imposing mountains, and with the lake as a backdrop, it's a scenic spot to escape the rest of the world and enjoy some quality outdoors time with your canine companion.

As you'd expect, a lot of activity in Joseph H. Stewart State Recreation Area centers on the reservoir. Swimmers can take a dip in the clear and refreshing mountain water, while anglers can target trout, bass, and more. If you've got your own boat, you might like to indulge in water skiing out on the lake's glassy surface.

Park highlights include a large swimming area, boat launching ramp, marina, boat rentals, a restaurant, and groceries. There are also more than 11 miles of hiking trails to explore, leading you through chaparral woodland and dense forest.

If you're planning on staying the night, the campground is open year-round and features 151 electrical sites with water and 50 tent sites with water. There's also a kids' playground, horseshoe pits, a volleyball court, and, of course, a fenced off-leash exercise area for pets.

Daily parking permits are available for day-use visitors for a fee, while overnight fees for campers vary depending on the type of site you choose. Tent sites are $17 a night while electrical sites cost $24 a night.

If you're traveling with your dog, your pet needs to be physically restrained, which means you'll need to keep them on a leash no longer than six feet. However, your pet can be let off the leash when confined inside your vehicle, tent or camper, and when in the pet off-leash exercise area.

There's no shortage of activities and experiences to enjoy in Joseph H. Stewart State Recreation Area, so why not spend a few days exploring them all with your canine companion?