Hamilton County Conservation Area

Hamilton County State Fish and Wildlife Area is the pawfect place to spend some quality time with your beloved pet. Also known as Dolan Lake, this gorgeous slice of nature draws both four legged and two legged outdoor enthusiasts from the surrounding area.

Since Dolan Lake is the park’s main feature, it’s no surprise that fishing and boating are pupular activities. Boat rentals and a boat launch are available for those who wish to explore the lake. There is also great shore fishing, so bring your pole along and see if you can snag a largemouth bass, channel catfish, or crappie. A small bait shop is on site for those needing some last minute tackle.

After an hour or two of fishing, your patient pup will pawbably get restless and need a walk. Grab the leash and wander around the hiking trails. A small network of paths runs around the lake and passes through the campground and picnic areas. Your pal can put their sniffer to work and find the pawfect stick or track the local critters.

Hamilton County State Fish and Wildlife Area is also home to a premier sporting dog field trial program. If you come to the park at the right time, your doggo can cheer on some of the best trained beagles and bird dogs as they vie for regional and national titles. Good luck puppers!

Besides the fishing, boating, and hiking, this park has a furrific camping area. Sites are available for tents and trailers, and electricity, sanitary dump stations, and showers make this a convenient place to stay. After a day of fishing and exploring, your pooch can relax by the campfire and gaze at the night sky. Be sure that you bring water and clean-up bags, no matter how long you stay in this beautiful area.

Make no mistake, your pup will go mutts over this park!