Rifle Gap State Park

In between the steep hills near White River National Forest sits Rifle Gap State Park -- home of the Rifle Gap Reservoir, a long and narrow body of water that makes for quite the summer hot spot for boaters and swimmers alike. No matter what season you come here, you and your pupper will have endless opportunities to explore the diverse and beautiful terrain that surrounds the lake.

If you're looking to camp here, you can pick from 89 different campsites sectioned off into five different areas of the park. The Lakeview Campground offers the most amenities, with full hookup options and lots large enough to accommodate big RVs. Both the Cottonwood and the Cedar Campgrounds offer electric hookups and access to drinking water, while the Sage and Pinyon Campgrounds offer vault toilets as their only real amenity -- though, Sage Campground is ideal for anyone looking to go OHVing! Each of the sites, no matter what loop you are in, come with their own picnic table and fire ring, but check that there aren't any fire bans in place before you get blazing.

To get into the park, you'll have to purchase a vehicle permit which costs $7 per day. There are annual passes available if you plan on visiting often. Camping fees start at $18 for a basic site and jump up to $28 for one with full hookup options. 

If you happen to visit when the weather is warm, you can spend most of your time out on the clear waters of the reservoir. All kinds of boating and motorsports are allowed here, although water levels can get low during times of drought. While there are no official trails here, the perimeter of the lake is easy to traverse and much of the surrounding forest is sparse enough to trek through, so you can get your furry friend the exercise they so badly want!

Speaking of our four-legged friends, this park gladly welcomes all woofers provided they stay on a 6-foot leash and their owners clean up after them throughout their visit. Keep in mind that canine patrons are not allowed on the swimming beach.

For a camping trip with incredible views and lots of good times, be sure to check out Rifle Gap State Park!