Lake Claiborne State Park

When fun on the water is what you seek, look no further than Lake Claiborne in northern Louisiana. This state park is centered around splashin' good times and offers everything you and your gang (doggo included) need to enjoy the great outdoors. 

The grounds include 89 campsites, 20 of which are extra spacious -- some even allowing RVs to pull right through instead of shimmying backward to set up. You'll also have the option of staying at one of the 10 cabins on-site; however, none of these digs let our furry pals stay inside. Although the cabins offer internet access, it's unclear whether WiFi is available at the campsites. The restroom facilities are maintained regularly and the showers have hot water -- so no need to dread every trip to the comfort station! For those in trailers and RVs, a dump station is provided right on the property, as are multiple spigots with drinking water.

To get into the park, you'll have to dish out $3 a person for an entrance permit, though kiddos and seniors can bypass the fee. Nightly rates for camping start at $14 a night for a standard site using the state's online discount, and prices go all the way up to $33 for prime site stays over the weekends.

It's no surprise that the main draw here is, indeed, Lake Claiborne. All types of aquatic recreation are welcome -- meaning you can jet ski, paddleboard, putt around, or front crawl all day long. If you're more into relaxing, the beach makes for a great place to sunbathe, and there are many quiet little coves that are perfect for casting a line or two. For fun with your fur-baby, why not join one of the many tours through the woods with one of the resident park naturalists? 

Canine campers are welcome in the park, though management requests that all pet waste is scooped and disposed of promptly and properly. (Who can blame them?) The leash rules here are a bit fuzzy -- so we recommend you bring one along and ensure your pupper doesn't leave your side.

For an ultimate getaway at the lake, go straight to Lake Claiborne State Park!