Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Pineville, LA
Indian Creek Recreation Area offers multiple pet-friendly camping options throughout its 2,500-acre property near Pineville. Dogs are permitted at all campsites across both the main developed campground and the primitive camping areas, with no additional pet fees charged. The campground features 104 water and electric sites with concrete pads, picnic tables, and fire rings, along with primitive tent camping options for those seeking a more rustic experience with their pets. Leashed pets are allowed on the hiking trails and in most outdoor areas, though they must be kept under control and are not permitted on the swimming beaches. Full hookup RV sites accommodate camping with dogs, while tent campers report adequate space between sites for pets. The campground maintains clean facilities with pit toilets and potable water spigots available near the primitive camping areas. Some guests have noted the campground can get crowded on weekends with a party atmosphere and numerous golf carts cruising through the grounds.
Valentine Lake's trails provide excellent opportunities for hiking with dogs, including the Wild Azalea Trail which allows leashed pets on all routes. The nearby Kincaid Lake Recreation Area also welcomes pets, though visitors should note it sustained hurricane damage in 2020 and some facilities remained closed through 2021. Evangeline Camp Complex offers free camping with pets allowed and has well-marked trails suitable for dog walking. Most campgrounds in the area require pets to be leashed at all times outside vehicles or campers, cleaned up after, and not left unattended. Cotile Recreation Area and Colfax RV Park provide additional pet-friendly options within a short drive of Pineville. Primitive camping areas generally offer more privacy for those camping with active dogs that may bark at passersby. The campgrounds remain open year-round, though summer heat requires extra consideration for pet comfort and hydration.