Umpqua Lighthouse State Park

Set in the midst of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Umpqua Lighthouse State Park offers year-round camping, a pretty freshwater lake, and a tranquil atmosphere. Best of all, the campground has a pet-friendly policy and a wide range of accommodation options.

Encompassing 362 acres, the park is found around a mile from the Umpqua River Lighthouse, which is an imposing presence over the entrance to Winchester Bay. The area around the lighthouse boasts some spectacular coastal views, and there's an interesting museum attached for those keen to learn more about the history of the region.

The other main attraction in this part of Oregon is the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Home to huge sand dunes that tower above 500 feet, this is a favorite destination for both nature lovers and off-road enthusiasts. However, please note that there is no access to the dunes or the ocean from the park -- you'll need to take a five-minute drive to get the feeling of sand between your toes.

Umpqua Lighthouse State Park boasts a campground and day-use area that centers around scenic Lake Marie. This freshwater lake is stocked with rainbow trout multiple times throughout the year and is open for non-motorized boating. It also features a sandy swimming beach if you want to cool off during the summer months.

Happily, dogs are permitted to join you in Umpqua Lighthouse State Park. However, you'll need to ensure that your pet is confined, or on a leash of six feet or shorter, at all times. You'll also need to remove all of your dog's waste and ensure that your pet doesn't disturb other campers during quiet hours from 10 pm to 7 am.

Accommodation options include full hookup sites, electrical sites with water nearby, and tent sites with water nearby. Those looking for extra creature comforts might prefer to stay in:

• A pet-friendly rustic yurt
• One of three pet-friendly deluxe yurts
• A pet-friendly rustic log cabin
  

Accommodation costs vary depending on the type of site you select. Tent sites are $19 a night, electrical sites are $29 a night, while pet-friendly yurts and cabins are $53. If you want to stay in a deluxe pet-friendly yurt, the nightly rate is $92.

Despite its beautiful location, Umpqua Lighthouse State Park is relatively uncrowded for much of the year -- so why not check it out with your dog before the rest of the world discovers this little-known gem?