Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Middletown, DE
Lums Pond State Park Campground welcomes pets at all 68 campsites on its spacious grounds near Middletown. Each site includes a concrete pad, picnic table, and fire ring, with full hookups available for RVs. The campground maintains a strict leash policy requiring dogs to be on leashes no longer than 6 feet at all times. Blackbird State Forest Campground, currently closed until further notice, previously offered 8 primitive tent and RV sites where pets were allowed. The campsites at Lums Pond feature large, level spaces with good separation between neighbors, providing ample room for pets to settle in without disturbing fellow campers. Sites are positioned around a central field area with surrounding woods, offering various sun and shade options. Bathroom facilities remain consistently clean, though tent campers face longer walks to reach them than RV sites.
Numerous hiking opportunities exist for dogs and their owners, including the 7-mile trail that circles Lums Pond and the 8-mile multi-purpose trail system. The Mike Castle Trail along the C&D Canal is accessible just across from the park entrance, providing additional pet exercise options. The park's pond allows fishing and non-motorized boating, though pets must remain on leash near water areas. During summer months, campers should monitor pets for ticks and mosquitoes, particularly prevalent in the wooded sections of the campground. The state park features several recreational amenities including a Go Ape zipline course, kayak rentals, and fishing piers. Sites fill quickly during peak seasons, with reservations highly recommended for anyone planning to camp with pets, as the campground's popularity means last-minute availability is limited.
