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Dog-Friendly Camping near Leavenworth, IN

81 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.

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    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    Horseshoe Bend RV Campground accommodates pets at its waterfront sites in Leavenworth, with full hookups including 50-amp service for RVers traveling with dogs. Sycamore Springs Park offers pet-friendly options across tent sites, RV spots, and cabins, maintaining clean facilities with strong shower pressure appreciated by campers with dogs. Marengo Cave Campgrounds allows small pets inside the cave if carried in backpacks, with camping spots facing a small river. Most campgrounds in the area require pets to remain leashed at all times, with designated pet exercise areas available at several locations. The dog park at Love's RV Hookup in Leavenworth provides a convenient rest stop option, though reviewers note the truck stop location creates noise throughout the night that may disturb sensitive pets.

    Tipsaw Lake's 5.9-mile trail system provides excellent dog walking opportunities through hilly, technical terrain where leashed pets can explore alongside their owners. Nearby O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground welcomes pets at both drive-in and hike-in sites, offering drinking water and electric hookups. Several campgrounds feature waterfront access where dogs can swim, particularly at Buffalo Trace Park where a designated area allows pets to enjoy the water. Campers should pack tick prevention when hiking with dogs, especially after rainfall when the trails become muddy. The Hoosier National Forest dispersed camping areas provide more secluded options for those seeking quiet camping with pets, though these primitive sites lack amenities like fire rings or restrooms. Small dogs carried in backpacks are permitted inside Marengo Cave, offering a unique experience for campers with portable pets.

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    Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Leavenworth (81)

      1. O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground

      4.3(21)3mi from Leavenworth282 sitesRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "There is also no sewer hookup at the site which I assumed was wrong, because I have never been to an Indiana state park with sewer hookup on site."

      "The campground is near the trail to the old abandoned bridge which is well worth the hike. The fire tower has a commanding view."

      from $26 - $496 / night

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      2. Sycamore Springs Park

      4.6(17)11mi from LeavenworthRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "We were right at the lake edge. The campsite had electric but no water, but the water was just across the road at a shelter."

      "There is a fishing lake and a small river to fish in or wade and swim in. There is a miniature village for the kids along with 20 playgrounds in the campground."

      3. Indian-Celina Recreation Area

      4.4(20)14mi from Leavenworth102 sitesRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "This was a very quiet campsite in southern Indiana. We had a hard time finding dispered camping in the national Forest so we settled for this site."

      "Indian Lake is co-located with Celina Lake and two campground. Once you turn off of IN37 you just keep straight to get to Indian Lake."

      from $24 - $52 / night

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      4. Buzzard Roost Campground — Hoosier National Forest

      3.8(12)8mi from Leavenworth5 sitesRVs, Tents

      "It used to have a sweet little walk in spot down the bouldering trail that looked over the river. Now it is overgrown and you can't get back there."

      "There actually wasn’t any camp grounds open when we got there but we were so exhausted from the drive and it was 4am so we parking at the trail head and got a 3 hour nap in."

      5. Patoka Lake Campground

      4.4(37)22mi from Leavenworth525 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Only waterfill location was at the camp store. Shower house was open and warm water was available. Big DNR presence and staff was friendly and helpful. Quiet campground wasn’t many occupants."

      "Patoka has always had a hype about it for years; big lake, tons of boats, and fishing. This was our first trip here. We stayed in the Fishermans Primitive Campground."

      from $14 - $52 / night

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      6. Marengo Cave Campgrounds

      4.3(8)12mi from LeavenworthRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "The spots are just near and walking distance from the caves and other attractions."

      "Camp store, cave tours, gift shop, and other pay activities are within steps of camping, but only open until 5:00. No security or staff at all after hours."

      from $27 / night

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      7. Tipsaw Lake

      4.9(10)16mi from Leavenworth48 sitesRVs, Tents

      "This was my first time camping in Indiana and it did not let me down!"

      "Located in the beautiful rolling hills of southern Indiana not far from I-64 (exit 79)."

      from $24 - $80 / night

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      8. Horseshoe Bend RV Campground

      5.0(2)0mi from LeavenworthRVs

      9. Happy Hollow Homestead

      4.8(5)14mi from Leavenworth3 sitesTents, Cabins

      "The drive to this property is very easy and we had no trouble finding it. However, there is not a sign for the campground, so just follow your gps."

      from $40 - $65 / night

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      10. Saddle Lake Campground — Hoosier National Forest

      4.0(11)19mi from Leavenworth13 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Saddle Lake Recreation Area and Campground is located of IN37 right outside Tell City, IN in Hoosier National Forest. "

      "There are 8-10 spots available, all but one of which are drive-in."

      from $5 / night

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    Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Leavenworth, IN

    577 Reviews of 81 Leavenworth Campgrounds


    • C
      Jul. 9, 2019

      Louisville South KOA

      Nice

      There was lots to do at this KOA. There was corn hole, ladder ball, pool, walking trails, access to the river, cat fish pond, small dog park, and washers & dryers. You could bring your RV, travel trailer, tent camp, or rent a cabin. I’m sure I’m forgetting something. The spots were close together. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The park was clean and well maintained.

    • L
      Jul. 7, 2024

      Tipsaw Lake

      Great Camp Spot for Families

      Besides picking the only weekend where the camp had plumbing issues… my 4 year old daughter and I loved this place. This was my first time camping in Indiana and it did not let me down! The rangers were very nice and was pleased to answer any of my questions, the lake and bathrooms were clean and the place was nice and quiet. I’ll be back again.

    • L
      Jul. 11, 2021

      Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph

      Fun family campground

      This is a great location near the lake, dog park and community center and has excellent internet access.

    • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Apr. 10, 2024

      Louisville South KOA

      Great place to stay

      The staff are super helpful. The site we had was for a 38’ RV. Full hookups, dog park, lots of places to walk, even trails. We had a great stay here and will most likely come back next time we’re near Louisville.

    • Kelsie E.
      Oct. 16, 2021

      Buffalo Trace Park

      Great lake view

      The sites are well-spaced and there’s a beautiful lake where you can kayak, canoe, fish, let your dog swim, etc. Disc golf is the big activity at this park. Awesome walking path and a petting zoo. The park is exceptionally clean. Sites on the lake view side are noisy due to traffic on the highway.

    • s
      Aug. 20, 2022

      Scottsburg/Raintree Lake KOA

      Still developing

      Owners are fantastic. They will get to a 5 as they continue their hard work making it an awesome place. New owners took over 4 months ago. They have many activities (was yogi bear till it was sold) put put, bowling, chess, volleyball, fishing. Dog park, Play ground was nicely done. Lake has lots of algae. Pool is brand new. It is by highway however, that did not bother us personally. I will visit again and would consider seasonal. Service id rate them a 5. Wonderful people and the place as much potential.

    • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
      Feb. 1, 2026

      Bourbon Springs RV Resort

      New Campground with a Lot of Promise

      We received an information email the day before prior to arrival with general info and wifi password plus how to pre check in. The morning of arrival, we received another email with specific instructions to not trust GPS and follow their instructions. Our Trip Wizard and Waze GPS instructions actually brought us right to the campground  (CG). Since we had pre checked in, we were instructed in the directions email to go directly to deluxe pull-through site 78, where our welcome package would be in the electrical box. The site was plenty long enough for our 40’ toy hauler and F450. Not sure why this is a deluxe site as its gravel with a picnic table and portable fire pit? The utilities were more towards the front of the pad with no issues reaching the connections. It was a nice touch to see a small cement circle pad on the sewer connection. This is a new CG, so amenities like the laundry and gift shop were not opened yet. Water pressure was good. We got 4 bars on Verizon and 3 bars 5G on T-Mobile. We used our T-Mobile Internet versus Starlink. It would not have been an issue to use satellite as there are no mature trees in the campground. They have one large(about 1/4 acre) fenced dog area. The dog park slopes down a hill and connects with a fence that goes around the property. Do not throw small balls down the hill as they can go through the fence and there’s no way to recover the ball due to no openings/gates near by to get to the back of the dog park. There’s also a smaller fenced dog area near the front of the CG. Great customer service before and during our stay.

    • J
      May. 14, 2022

      Scottsburg/Raintree Lake KOA

      New Name “Camp Raintree Lake”

      Gorgeous property with such kind and friendly owners. New owners that are making improvements to the property but it is so nice already.

      The lake is GORGEOUS. Sites have mature trees, variety of singing birds. Really nice stay here as we were passing through. There is a sand volleyball net, gah gah ball, dog park, playground, mini golf (not ready for summer yet), and a new pool soon (concrete poured the other day).

      Campground is a few miles from interstate and right off the highway so some highway noise but still a great picturesque place.

      We will definitely stay here again if we are in the area .

    • j
      Oct. 4, 2024

      Love's RV Hookup-Leavenworth IN 839

      Last minute

      Rest stops leading up to this RV spot were under construction. This was a last minute decision. It was late and I didn’t want to drive in the dark anymore. The price is HIGH. With discounts for goodsam and loves connect it was $50/night for 30 amp. The dog park at this loves is very nice and the spaces are okay. But it’s loud all night because it’s a truck stop. I like the idea of this for loves but the price needs to reflect it. $25/night. No one is staying longer than that and it’s a better deal.


    Guide to Leavenworth

    O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground offers a variety of camping options near Leavenworth, Indiana, within the rolling hills of southern Indiana. The campground sits at approximately 600 feet elevation, with a mix of forest and river access creating distinct seasonal temperature variations. Most sites feature asphalt pads that can present leveling challenges during wet weather conditions.

    What to do

    Hiking and trail exploration: The trail system at O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground provides varied terrain and difficulty levels. "The hiking trails were amazing, the scenery was breathtaking, the sites were nice, and the nature center was so cool," notes Stacey S., who found the park suitable for multiple return visits to complete all trails.

    Caving adventures: The region offers underground exploration opportunities at Marengo Cave Campgrounds, where small dogs carried in backpacks can join the adventure. "I have a small zuchon and carry her in a doggy backpack, she loved it!" reports Sofia A., highlighting this unique pet-friendly feature.

    Water recreation: Camping near water provides swimming and boating options at several locations. "The beach is the main attraction to this area of Hoosier NF. A very nice set up on the shore of Tipsaw with sand to get in all those cracks and a play area for the kids," explains Shelly S., pointing out the family-friendly design of the area.

    What campers like

    Privacy and site layout: Campers appreciate the variety of site arrangements available. "The sites are spacious and not jammed up against other sites. It is very family oriented with plenty of friendly campers," shares Nancy R. about Indian-Celina Lake, where the forest setting creates natural separation.

    Clean facilities: Sycamore Springs Park consistently receives praise for maintenance. "The showers were the best I've seen, clean and strong pressure," reports Barry B., who appreciated both the tent camping options and pet-friendly policies at the lakeside sites.

    Kid-friendly amenities: Multiple playgrounds and activities keep children entertained. "So much to do with the kids, from swimming in the creek, fishing, campfires, s'mores, fresh black topped roads, and such friendly staff. Tons of playgrounds too spread throughout the campground," explains Cora P., highlighting the comprehensive family experience.

    What you should know

    Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have spotty connectivity. At Buzzard Roost Campground, "One bar with AT&T, was able to get online when the neighbors left (but not while they were home) - so a booster or better would be advised," reports licia S., suggesting preparation for limited communication.

    Weather considerations: Rainfall impacts trail conditions significantly. "Ticks were REALLY bad. Maybe the season, maybe the area, not sure," warns Kyle about O'Bannon Woods, indicating the need for tick prevention, especially in warmer months.

    Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly, particularly on weekends. "It used to be free with an email request for a reservation but eventually the foundation that runs this campground did have to start charging a small fee to help with maintenance and operating costs," explains Tonya C. about Sycamore Springs Park.

    Tips for camping with families

    Playground access: Tipsaw Lake offers numerous recreational facilities for children. "The playground at the lake is perfect for Littles. The trails are clearly marked and fun little streams for the kids to play in," recommends Angela M., highlighting the family-friendly atmosphere.

    Kid-specific attractions: Several campgrounds feature unique play areas. "They have a giant tree web about 15 feet in the air. My boys loved climbing up and laying in the web. The tire swing was also fun for the kids," shares Heather K. about Happy Hollow Homestead's distinctive play features.

    Swimming options: Not all water access areas permit pets. "The beach area on Tipsaw Lake is very family oriented, nice bathhouse facility, small picnic pavilions on cement walkways and a nice beach with play area for the kids. We did not visit the beach because dogs are not allowed," notes Shelly S., pointing out this important consideration for families traveling with pets.

    Tips from RVers

    Site selection for larger vehicles: Saddle Lake Campground has limited options for bigger rigs. "This is a small campground (13 sites). Sites are nice, but small if you RV camp. We have a 29 ft. camper and could only use 3 or 4 of the sites," advises Ronald H., highlighting the importance of advance planning.

    Hookup variations: Dog friendly campgrounds near Leavenworth vary in available amenities. "The campground was really nice and relatively quiet. 50,30,20 amp service in one box. There was no water at the site though. Throughout the campground are potable water spigots that you can hook up to and add water to your tank," explains Derek J. about O'Bannon Woods, noting the unexpected water access arrangement.

    Level site challenges: Some campsites require additional equipment for comfortable setup. "Not all pads are level or very wide. Some of the tent sites are a challenge to get to and use," mentions Shelly S., suggesting bringing leveling blocks for RVs and carefully selecting tent sites based on vehicle access.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Leavenworth, IN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Leavenworth, IN is O'Bannon Woods State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 21 reviews.

    What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Leavenworth, IN?

    TheDyrt.com has all 81 dog-friendly camping locations near Leavenworth, IN, with real photos and reviews from campers.