Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Ellington, MO
Log Yard Campground allows dispersed camping along the Current River with pet-friendly sites throughout its rocky shoreline area. Pets must be kept on a leash and under control at all times. Four Creeks Ranch Campground offers a more remote pet-friendly experience with comfortable outhouses and river access, according to camper reviews. Dogs appear to be welcome throughout the property with friendly resident dogs often greeting visitors. Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, Sam A. Baker State Park, and Echo Bluff State Park all permit pets in designated camping areas including tent sites, RV spaces, and select cabins. Most campgrounds enforce standard pet policies requiring owners to clean up after their animals and keep them leashed when outside vehicles or camping units.
The Current River provides excellent swimming opportunities for both humans and dogs at Log Yard Campground, though visitors note the site can sometimes attract noisy locals on weekends. No cell service is available in this area, requiring travelers to plan accordingly when camping with pets. Clearwater Lake at Piedmont Park features a swimming beach where families can enjoy water activities, though alcohol is prohibited in beach areas. For RV travelers with pets, Highway K Campground sits directly on Black River with spacious sites that accommodate large vehicles. Most campgrounds in the Ellington area offer basic amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and access to vault toilets, with varying levels of hookups available depending on the specific location and camping loop. Wildlife sightings are common, including bald eagles and potentially elk in the Ozark Scenic Riverway areas.