Yellow Creek State Park

Covering nearly 3,000 acres in Indiana County, Pennsylvania, Yellow Creek State Park offers ample opportunity for outdoor recreation and relaxation, as well as pet-friendly accommodation for dog lovers and their pets.

The park itself is located on what was once the site of the Kittanning Path, which was used by the Delaware and Shawnee nations and by early settlers. Today, the park's centerpiece is the 720-acre Yellow Creek Lake, which is popular with boaters, anglers, and water-lovers.

If you want to go for a swim, the park's 800-foot beach is open from late-May to mid-September. If you're looking to get out on the water, there are multiple boat launching ramps provided, and anglers can target most warmwater game fish and panfish.

For those looking to stretch their legs, there are five miles of hiking trails to explore. Some, such as the half-mile Laurel Run Trail, promise an easy stroll, but the two-mile Ridgetop Trail offers more of a challenge. Mountain bikers are spoiled for choice with 18 miles of trails, while cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowmobiling are all popular in winter.

Accommodation in Yellow Creek State Park is provided in camping cottages and yurts. However, of those structures, only two of the cottages permit pets for an extra fee. There are no entrance fees to worry about, but make sure you check the cost of booking a cottage when making a reservation. Please also note that you'll need to pay a $2 nightly fee in order to stay with your pet no matter which type of accommodation you choose.

Dogs must be under physical control at all times, must have current rabies vaccinations, and must display a valid license. As always, you're responsible for cleaning up after your pet.

If you can take care of these important but simple tasks, all that's left to do is enjoy your vacation! Yellow Creek State Park has plenty to offer to visitors, so make sure you take the time to see it all.