LaPine State Park

A pristine and pet-friendly campground tucked away in the Oregon wilderness next to a winding, twisting river -- sounds pretty good, right? This is exactly what you can expect to find if you make the journey to LaPine State Park, which sits on the banks of the Deschutes River about 180 miles southeast of Portland.

Situated amongst subalpine pine forest, LaPine State Park is a nature getaway for those keen to escape the hustle, bustle, and grind of everyday life. From the crisp fresh air to the surrounding mountain lakes and encroaching wilderness, this park is the pawfect base from which to explore some of Oregon's most spectacular terrain.

Park highlights include an extensive network of hiking trails, excellent trout fishing in the cold waters of the Deschutes River, magnificent eagles and red-tailed hawks, plus a host of other wildlife watching opportunities. LaPine State Park is even home to "Big Red," Oregon's largest ponderosa pine. The tree is 162 feet tall, 28.9 feet around, and may be over 500 years old.

Aside from the stunning natural scenery, there's another feature that draws dog lovers to the park: a fenced, off-leash pet exercise area! It's a wonderful inclusion and is designed to ensure that your furry friend gets a chance to run off any excess energy during your stay.

Speaking of pets, your pooch can join you at one of the park's 82 full-hookup sites, or 47 electrical sites with water. The campground also features 10 cabins, two of which are pet-friendly. The pet-friendly cabins are a little pricier than the other cabins, but the extra fee is a small price to pay for your canine's company!

Of course, you'll need to abide by all park rules concerning pets. These include keeping your dog on a leash of six feet or shorter and making sure they're always controlled and never unattended. Cleaning up after your pet is also a must.

Whether you want relaxation, adventure, or just the chance to spend some time in nature with your canine pal, LaPine State Park is well worth a visit. Make sure to check it out if you ever get the chance.