OBannon Woods State Park

If you're looking for a pet-friendly outdoor adventure in Indiana, you don't need to look any further than O'Bannon Woods State Park. Formerly known as Wyandotte Woods State Recreation Area, this spectacular wilderness retreat is tucked away in the central and southern parts of the state.

Bordering the Ohio River, O'Bannon Woods State Park actually sits within the 26,000-acre Harrison Crawford State Forest but is managed separately. And with so many outdoor activities to enjoy in the area, it's well worth a visit for dog lovers keen to embark on a nature escape.

Eleven miles of Blue River, located downstream from the S.R. 462 bridge, are available for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and other boating activities. Blue River is also popular with anglers, as is the park's fish pond.

If you'd prefer to stay on dry land, 18 miles of day-use hiking trails wind their way through the park. The 25.5-mile Adventure Trail, a backpacking trail through Harrison Crawford State Forest, can also be accessed. Horse riders can explore 80 miles of marked loop trails through the state forest as well.

In the summer months, Wyandotte Caves are open for guided tours. Little Wyandotte Tour is easy, lasting around 45 minutes and suitable for travelers of all ages. A tour of Big Wyandotte Cave is much more rugged and challenging, however, so it isn't for the faint-hearted.

The O'Bannon Woods State Park campground offers 281 electric sites and more than 70 non-electric sites. Pets are more than welcome to join you on your camping trip, provided you take care to follow the park rules. These include keeping your furry friend on a leash of six feet or less at all times, and remembering to clean up after your dog whenever required.

Follow these simple rules and you can't go wrong, leaving you and your four-legged friend free to enjoy the best this beautiful state park has to offer.