69 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Lazy H Campground and Stone State Park Campground both welcome pets with designated pet-friendly areas throughout their facilities. Campers find the dog park at KOA Campground North Sioux City well-maintained, providing a dedicated space for pets to exercise off-leash. All campgrounds enforce standard 6-foot leash requirements in common areas, with pet waste disposal stations positioned near restrooms and trail entrances. Scenic Park's spacious sites on pavement offer easy access to the Missouri River for dogs who enjoy swimming, while Riverfront Campground at Ponca State Park maintains clean grounds with well-spread campsites that accommodate pets. The campgrounds provide various accommodation options including tent sites, RV hookups, and pet-friendly cabins, though some cabin areas may have additional pet fees or restrictions.
Numerous hiking trails throughout the region welcome leashed dogs, with Newton Hills State Park offering pet-friendly nature paths through wooded terrain. Chief White Crane Recreation Area features a huge green space in the middle of the campground that's perfect for exercising pets, along with several playgrounds and a small beach area where dogs can cool off. During summer months, campers should be mindful of hot pavement that can burn paw pads, especially at Scenic Park and KOA where sites are primarily paved. Local wildlife encounters are possible, particularly at dawn and dusk, so keeping pets secured is essential. Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours beginning at 10:00 PM, with barking dogs specifically mentioned in several campground rules. Veterinary services are available in nearby Sioux City, approximately 25 miles from Akron, with emergency clinics offering 24-hour care for unexpected pet health issues.
"Clean lake with boating. Private lake so no fishing license required."
"I believe you can even rent or request a golf cart to make getting around easier. The only regret I have is not staying longer. Truly a wonderful place.
Sprint/T-mobile data was around 56 Mbps down."
from $45 - $65 / night
Check Availability"Trails in the area give you a chance to stretch your legs. Convenient to the interstate, but that also means some highway noise if you are not in a hard sided camper."
"Minor inconvenience, water and dump station at entrance. Bathhouse was clean, had plenty of hot water Site 08E pull thru, easy in and out. Campground on hill top hidden in the trees."
from $10 - $15 / night
Check Availability"There are water spickets around and I'm not about dump stations. You are surrounded by a football field, two baseball fields and a nice children's playground."
"Water is centrally located. Each site has electric. Some are 50 some are 30. All have 20A/110.
This is attached to a public park and next to a high school. It’s a very nice area."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"The drive from Omaha was so quick and easy. The park is beautiful with tons of trails and things to explore. The overlooks are great, you can see so much of the river."
"It's set at the edge of rolling wheat fields over looking the Missouri river. The woods are lush and full of deer, turkeys and other critters (also ticks...)."
from $25 - $30 / night
Check Availability"We pulled in after office ours and easily found several primitive walk up sites to choose from. We selected T45 for it’s proximity to a scenic Missouri River overlook and it’s flat, shaded ground."
"Need to pay the State Park entrance fee if you don't have an annual pass, but the campground is enjoyable. Close to recreational opportunities for the kids."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"There were vault/pit toilets close and regular restrooms with showers a little walk away (showers needed to be cleaned). Water spigot was close by too."
"Lots of trails, a little man made lake and a playground in the park for the kids. Beautiful hills and scenery and so quiet!"
from $14 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Easy drive down to the Missouri River. Plus they have a pool!"
"Miles of trails! My family did 7 miles. Wonderful views of 3 states. Along the Missouri River. Lovely welcome center with puzzles and games."
from $115 - $405 / night
Check Availability"Scenic park is across the Missouri river from Sioux City, Iowa. It is easy to get to. Very friendly staff. Restrooms are kept clean. "
"Great place very dog friendly. Spots are spacious and on pavement. Close to the river for your fishing needs."
from $18 - $30 / night
Check Availability"The dog park is not so well-maintained but was adequate and the pool was clean, and there is easy access to the freeway Both north and south"
"This KOA just north of the Iowa border is first class. ! Friendly staff and perfect for kiddos. The pool and adventure area are right up your alley if traveling with kids."
"We enjoyed all the trails that the city of Le Mars offers. The shower house was exceptionally clean. The campground itself was clean and well kept."
"The lake is clean and very pretty. The shower house is newly renovated and very nice. One of our favorite places to stay at!!!!"
ScoutThis KOA is well-maintained, a little older but the grounds are nice and it is well organized and maintained. The dog park is not so well-maintained but was adequate and the pool was clean, and there is easy access to the freeway Both north and south
ScoutCute and historical city park that offers multiple 30 Amp hook up sites for $15. Water is available. Lots of play grounds, dog park, disc golf, and historic Lewis and Clark campsite.
LegendNice park on the east side of Yankton. Would rate much higher except roads need more gravel and there are a few serious dips and bumps in the roads. Really nice staff, super clean restrooms, and nice patio sites for the reasonable rate.
Dog park, pool and other amenities are well maintained.
GuideGreat place for RV camping. My Uncle and I went through here back in 2011. All sites were reservable on-line. Every site had electric hookups. There is access to water and restrooms in each loop. Some of the sites are right near Lake Yankton. There was decent fishing but nothing too special. The park itself is very close to South Dakota, and you can visit the old time capitol of the Dakota Territory. I love the little history pieces like this so it was worth the side trip for me. It is also right near Lewis and Clark Lake which has really good fishing in the early morning. People we met were using the spot as they were passing through the area or for taking kids out for the weekend. Pets were allowed here too.
LegendDates: April 15, 2021- October 17, 2021 October 17 2021– April 21, 2022
Fees:$16.00$18.00
The Lewis and Clark Visitor Center: Contains exhibits on the Missouri River and area history including the Lewis and Clark Expedition with stunning views of Lewis and Clark Lake along with the Missouri River. Powerhouse Tours are available on weekends. Please contact the Lewis and Clark Visitor Center at (402) 667-2546 for more information.• The Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium• Visit nearby Yankton, South Dakota- the historic capitol of the Dakota Territory.• Located both upstream and downstream of Lewis and Clark Lake, visit the Missouri National Recreational River.
•• Latitude• 42° 51' 31.0000" N • Longitude• 97° 28' 57.0000" W••
From U.S. Hwy 81 in Yankton, South Dakota, drive four miles west on South Dakota Highway 52, then south on Dam Toe Road and follow signs
.• Check-In Time is 4:00 P.M./ Check-Out Time is 2:00 P.M.
All-Terrain Vehicles(ATVs/UTVs) and golf carts are not permitted.
Quiet hours are 10:00 P.M. to 6:00 A.M.
Fireworks are prohibited.
All pets must be on a leash of 6 feet in length or less. Pet waste must be picked up and properly disposed of promptly.
Firewood Alert: Don't Move Firewood!• Due to the spread of invasive insects(such as Emerald Ash Borer(EAB)) firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Help protect your forests by purchasing near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Firewood is not available for sale on-site, however several local businesses sell firewood a short distance away, see the campground host or attendant for more information.• Visit DontMoveFirewood.org for more information.
For questions or to contact park staff, please call: 402-667-2546 or email: gavinspoint.nwo@usace.army.mil. U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS GAVINS POINT PROJECT OFFICE P.O. BOX 710 YANKTON, SD 57078
Physical Address U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS COTTONWOOD CAMPGROUND 198 TOE RD YANKTON, SD 57078 Phone Number
For facility specific information, please call (402) 667-2546
Trails: There are at least 9 hiking trails on AllTrails that you will find around Lewis and Clark Recreation Area. Lewis and Clark has the best of both worlds since the lake borders South Dakota and Nebraska. That makes it easy to stay in your preferred state and location. In Yankton SD a great trail is the Chalk Bluffs Multi-Use Trail which is a 3.7 mile loop where you will find a lake and it is rated as moderate. Dogs are allowed but must be on leash. This trail is used for hiking, horses, mountain biking and birding and is accessible through out the year. There is a 3.8 mile lightly used round trip or one way out and back called Yankton South Shore Trail. Great for wildlife viewing and it is great for walking, hiking and just enjoying nature.
Fishing: Lewis & Clark offers many types of fish for all anglers out there, walleye, sauger, large and small mouth bass, crappie, catfish and bluegill. It depends on the season and temperature of the water as to what is biting.
Boating: Boating goes hand in hand with fishing and as with all things there are rules and regulations. You will find all types of boats, speedboats, pontoon, kayaks and personal watercraft. Make sure and wear your life jacket anytime you are on the water– Stay Safe and Alive. Make sure you are aware of the rules and regulations for boating around a dam area.
Another issue that has become an increasing problem is Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) which is spreading in the United States. There are different types of AIS and they are being spread by several methods. Boaters, of all types, help spread or help stop the spread by taking care of their watercraft. Before leaving a boat launch practice the CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY technique. Many states require an AIS permit before you place watercraft in the water.
Birding: Birding at Lewis & Clark is great for watching bald eagles. You can get a list from Niobrara State Park for birds found around the lake.
Hunting: In season, of course, begins the Tuesday after Labor Day. White tailed deer, mourning dove, waterfowl and wild turkey, cottontail rabbits and squirrel. Make sure you follow all the regulations in the recreation area.
Winter sports: Adds a completely new option for recreation. When ice is thick enough the lake is open for ice fishing, skating and snowmobiles. Cross country skiing is also very popular.
Lewis & Clark Lake is formed from the Missouri and Niabrara Rivers. The lake travels for about 35 miles at a maximum pool 90 miles of shoreline. Maximum depth is 45 feet. It was named after the Lewis& Clark Expedition that camped nearby.
LNT
Better than when you found it
Stay safe– Happy Travels
GuideOur family liked this place so much that we actually changed our itinerary to stay an extra night. The kids and pets especially enjoyed it! There is a huge green space in the middle of the campground, and all around the campground are several fantastic playgrounds as well as a small beach and a dock. The sites didn't have full hookups but that worked fine for us because we snagged two sites right next to the water and bathroom/showers (and the playground!) The showers were much nicer than we expected for a state park. Lots of kids and families around, everyone was friendly and considerate. The sites were on the small side but since the price was reasonable for the amenities we didn't mind reserving two.
LegendOpen year round
Reservations: Mid May - Mid May
FCFS Mid Oct - Mid May
42 sites 31 electric 11 non electric
Group camping with electric
ADA Accessible fishing pier 31 electric sites 11 non electric Modern showers Flush toilets Shore fishing Boat ramp Fish cleaning station RV dump station Group camping Picnic shelter Fire ring/grill Vault toilet Cell service Paved sites Pets allowed Trash Security lights Drinking water
This campground is a gem snuggled along the Missouri River on the Nebraska side of the river. Lewis and Clark journeyed up the Missouri River on their way to the Pacific Ocean. In 1874 a group of Mennonites settled along the now Lewis& Clark Lake. Ground was broken in 1952 at the damsite. Now the public is able to recreate in numerous campgrounds and recreation sites along the Nebraska and South Dakota shore line
GuideThis KOA just north of the Iowa border is first class. ! Friendly staff and perfect for kiddos. The pool and adventure area are right up your alley if traveling with kids.
LegendThis is a large state park in the northwest corner of Iowa, surprisingly wooded considering how close to Sioux City it is located. Touted as a year-round park, there is a large network of trails, some of which can be used as equestrian. HOWEVER, the trails are not labeled and there is no (or very fleeting) cell service so that even after looking at the map (located on a board in the park, not a paper one), I wandered aimlessly around the park getting lost. One of the trailheads requires that you tramp directly through Site 12 to access! I explored this trail for approximately a quarter of a mile, but it became very overgrown and because I was not sure where I was going, I ended up turning around.
The campground is divided into three sections
• Sites 1-11 are located on either side of the access road are a bit too close together for our preference and despite the park being so wooded, have no foliage or other visible separation between the sites. These sites all have electric hookups
• Sites 12-14 are at the top of the hill and have the easiest access to the restrooms; they also have electric hookups. In my opinion, Site 14 would be the most desirable. Given that there are only three sites here, there was a surprising number of cars driving past these sites.
• Sites 15-30 are primitive tent sites and located near Cabin#3 (a CCC cabin).
The bathrooms were clean and (don’t laugh at me), the toilets had lids! Given the current virus situation, this was a nice and welcome surprise!
There was no camp host and we only saw one ranger during our stay. There is a nice playground, but it is not located anywhere near the campground (it is located closer to two of the cabins). If you are camping with children, please note this. There are three cabins, one that was built by the CCC and a lodge which also looked to be a CCC product, although it did not appear to be open when we were there.
Akron camping areas sit within rolling hills and wooded terrain of northwestern Iowa, where the Big Sioux River creates a natural border with South Dakota. Campgrounds near Akron typically offer good tree coverage for shade during summer months when temperatures average 75-85°F. Winter camping options are limited with most facilities closing between October and April due to seasonal freezing temperatures.
Hiking diverse trail networks: Union Grove State Park Campground offers multiple trail options for various skill levels. "Lots of great hiking trails," notes Laura S., while another visitor mentions, "We hiked around the trails x kids said they looked beautiful."
Fishing without licenses: At Lazy H Campground, guests enjoy private lake fishing that doesn't require permits. "Private lake so no fishing license required," confirms Donald N., while another camper adds they provide "fishing, boating, biking, and swimming."
Water recreation options: Several campgrounds offer water activities during summer months. "The beach has giant floating lily pads that the kids loved. There are showers on the beach to wash off feet after you're done swimming," shares Bryan R. about Lazy H Campground's lake facilities.
Local history exploration: Visit the education center at Ponca State Park to learn about regional history. "Wonderful visitors center with puzzles and games," shares one visitor, while another notes the center has "a little bit of the history of the area as well as education of the Missouri river."
Well-maintained facilities: Oak Bluff Campground receives praise for its upkeep and cleanliness. "The park is amazing with multiple trails and lots to do. Great activities for kids. Staff was friendly and very helpful," shares Sandra W.
Privacy levels vary: Campground layouts differ significantly in this region. "For tent camping you'll likely find the perfect spot for your small to large tent on a walk up site with plentiful shade trees," shares Joe R. about Oak Bluff, while at Lazy H, "sites are close and although they've planted some nice trees, they are small and aren't providing shade yet."
Spacious sites: Scenic Park offers generous site dimensions. "The sites are spacious...neighbors are not on top of you," notes Chris S., while another visitor confirms, "Sites are easy to park in. Plenty of trees and grass."
Budget options: Several campgrounds provide affordable camping near Akron. Elk Point City Park Campground offers basic amenities at lower prices. "For $15 per night, it's hard to beat it," shares one camper, while another notes it has "electric at each site, both 30 and 50 amp service."
Weather preparation: The region experiences seasonal temperature extremes. Summer days can reach 90+°F, while winter brings freezing conditions. "We stayed in the old section (no sewer) which had lovely thick trees offering welcome shade in 90+ degree weather," shares Charles M. about Willow Creek Campground.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Limited number of sites. Make reservations on line," advises Robert about Union Grove State Park, particularly important for holiday weekends and summer months.
Bathroom conditions vary: Facility quality differs between campgrounds. Willow Creek campers report "the shower house is newly renovated and very nice," while at Stone State Park, visitors noted "the bathroom was so gross and the shower did not spray."
Weekend noise levels: Some campgrounds experience higher traffic and noise on weekends. "Shelter house was rented for our family reunion, was a great space," notes one Willow Creek visitor, indicating potential for large gatherings during summer weekends.
Playground proximity considerations: At Stone State Park Campground, "the playground is not located anywhere near the campground (it is located closer to two of the cabins). If you are camping with children, please note this," advises Lee D.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds provide swimming areas for children. "The lake is clean and very pretty," shares a Willow Creek camper, while others note designated beach areas at multiple locations around Akron.
Educational activities: Riverfront Campground offers organized programs for children. "There are activities boundless. Good for biking, hiking, nature watching, fishing, kayaking, archery etc," describes Julie L. about the Ponca State Park area.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer chances to spot local animals. "We witnessed deer and many species of birds in our one evening and morning stay," shares Joe R. about Ponca State Park, making these areas good for nature-curious children.
Site dimensions and access: Many campgrounds accommodate larger rigs, but access varies. "The pull through sites are fully concrete and level. They all have a huge table and stone fire pit. Plenty of room for a second vehicle," notes Bryan R. about Lazy H Campground.
Utility hookup options: Full-service sites are available at several locations. "Sites in upper campground are a little small and close together but very well maintained," notes Leslie B. about Union Grove, while Scenic Park offers "full hook-ups with sewer, water, electric, cable, and wi-fi."
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds provide on-site dumping. "It only has electricity but for $15.00 it was very nice and quiet," mentions Mary M. about Elk Point City Park, indicating the need to plan for dumping elsewhere.
Seasonal considerations: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Akron have limited winter availability. "End of October and it was wonderful! Nearly had the park to ourselves," notes a camper about Union Grove, highlighting the benefit of shoulder-season camping for those seeking quieter experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Akron, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Akron, IA is Lazy H Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 7 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 69 dog-friendly camping locations near Akron, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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