Lake Vermillion Recreation Area

If you are in search of a state park for Fido that overlooks a beautiful, clear, blue lake, then head over to the Lake Vermillion Recreation Area in Canistota, South Dakota. Fido can roam by your side as you take advantage of the hiking and biking trails and observe the various species of birds and wildflowers. Wondering how the park got its name? It turns out that vermillion means bright red, and you and Fido can view some neat red quartzite found within the park. 

And if you need to relieve yourself, there is running water and a bathroom on site. And if you and Fido work up a sweat while hiking through the park, showers are also available. Fido might need a break from that South Dakota sun, so he can rest in one of the many shady areas of the park under an Evergreen tree. You and Fido can also rent a reel and go fishing together at the 512-acre man-made lake that's known for its abundance of fish. 

And you and your pooch shouldn't miss out on geocaching, a favorite new activity where visitors use GPS coordinates for an outdoor scavenger hunt. Love camping? You and Fido are also invited to stay at one of the three campgrounds on site. The Lake Vermillion Recreation Area also offers picnic areas and pavilions that visitors can use for the day, which makes the park an excellent place for family gatherings or even a dog-friendly play date.

Just make sure that Fido remains on a leash no less than ten-feet-long. And remember that when it comes to the beach, he has to sit on the sidelines because the park prohibits dogs from roaming in the posted swimming beach zones. You also want to bring your own poop bag for Fido and be respectful of this beautiful state park by cleaning up after him. The Vermillion Lake Recreational Area offers a large space in which you and Fido can enjoy many outdoor activities.