Lakeside State Park

With a host of pet-friendly sites and outstanding views of Lake Ontario, Lakeside Beach State Park is a beautiful spot for a weekend camping getaway.

Situated on a bluff overlooking the lake's clear blue waters, this park is popular with amateur photographers and nature lovers. The sunsets in particular can be stunning, so keep your fingers crossed for clear weather when you visit.

Unfortunately, there's no swimming or water access in this park, so if you're looking for a campground where your dog can make a splash, you'll need to look elsewhere. However, there are several other activities and attractions to keep you and your pooch entertained.

The 18-hole Shore Winds Disc Golf Course is popular and also quite challenging, while there are also several short hiking trails to explore. The trails furthest away from the campground, near Johnson and Syren Creek at the park's western edge, are your best bet if you're looking for a little peace and quiet.

Dumping stations, picnic tables, playing fields and a playground are all provided. There's also a campground store, but as the park is a decent drive from any major grocery stores, you're best off stocking up before you arrive.

The Lakeside Beach State Park campground features 274 campsites spread out around seven loops. Only loops D, E, F, and G are pet-friendly, so make sure you choose your site carefully when making a reservation. Pets must be leashed and cleaned up after at all times, while there's also a maximum limit of two pets per site.

A $6 vehicle entrance fee applies, while camping fees range from $15 to $27 per night (plus an extra $5 nightly fee for out-of-state visitors). Restroom and shower facilities are clean if perhaps a little small, and the park is quite popular at the height of summer.

But despite some drawbacks, it's a well-kept park in a beautiful spot, and the picture-perfect views of Lake Ontario alone make it well worth a visit.