Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Festus, MO
Washington State Park Campground provides pet-friendly sites with both tent and RV options under an hour from St. Louis. Pets are allowed throughout the campground's basic and electric sites, with all accommodations offering picnic tables and fire pits on spacious grounds. The park requires pets to be leashed at all times on its premises. Meramec State Park Campground and St. Joe State Park Campground also welcome pets at their facilities, both offering cabin accommodations for visitors who prefer not to tent camp or use an RV. Campground hosts at Washington State Park are particularly helpful with pet-related questions and park information. Campsites are generally clean and well-maintained, though some visitors note the limited privacy between sites due to minimal tree coverage. Visitors use The Dyrt to find real feedback on camping near Festus, Missouri.
The pet-friendly parks near Festus feature extensive hiking trails suitable for leashed dogs. Washington State Park's 1000 Steps Trail offers a moderate challenge that most hikers with dogs can manage, while providing scenic views throughout. Big River runs through Washington State Park, providing water access for pets that enjoy swimming, though owners should watch for wildlife and changing water conditions. Campers planning overnight stays with pets should secure food in vehicles to prevent wildlife encounters, as raccoons are frequently spotted in the camping areas. The nearby Dollar General store just outside Washington State Park provides convenient access to emergency pet supplies or forgotten items. During summer months, temperatures can be particularly high, so pet owners should ensure adequate shade and water for their animals.
