Devils Lake offers several dog-friendly camping options within an hour's drive of Jamestown Reservoir. The lake region features rolling prairie terrain with elevations ranging from 1,400-1,450 feet and summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F. Water levels in Devils Lake can fluctuate dramatically between seasons, affecting shoreline camping access for visitors with pets.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Grahams Island State Park Campground provides excellent fishing access on Devils Lake. "This park is on an island in the middle of a beautiful huge lake. You just drive out over a bridge, very pretty. If you don't want to camp you can use it just to launch your boat for a day of fishing or use their very easy hiking trails," notes Lynn G.
Golfing with your dog: At Michigan City Park Campground, pets can join you while you golf. "The Duffers Golf Club next to campground is inexpensive, unique and even has clubs available for free use!" shares Heather H. The course welcomes campers with pets on leash throughout the grounds.
Swimming spots: Dog-friendly areas near swimming beaches let pets cool off while humans swim. "Swim beach was great. Lots of great skipping rocks! Playgrounds were nice & not busy. Nice trails," reports Ason S. about Grahams Island State Park. Dogs must remain leashed but can enjoy the shoreline near designated swimming areas.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded spots available at primitive camping areas. "We stayed overnight in #67 in the primitive section of the campground. It was completely private surrounded by trees that were full of birds!" reports Janet K. about Grahams Island State Park.
Clean facilities: "Great campground and super clean, swimming beach, playground, dog park, fish cleaning station, and shower houses," shares Scott S. about Grahams Island State Park. The regular maintenance makes these facilities comfortable for both human and canine visitors.
Free camping options: Michigan City Park Campground offers donation-based camping with utilities. "No fee but accepts donations. Power at site. Water and toilets nearby," reports Cat T. This makes it budget-friendly for travelers with pets looking for basic amenities without the cost.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Water access changes throughout the year at most campgrounds. "After November 1 no water at site," notes Bruce about Spirit Lake Casino & Resort RV Park. Winter camping requires planning for water needs for both humans and pets.
Flooding potential: Water levels can affect site availability. "There can be flooding. In the winter I believe they have cross-country skiing?" mentions Lynn G. about Grahams Island State Park. Always check conditions before arrival, especially in spring.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "We didn't stay because we wanted to get further down the road... Campground host. Dump station... Quite a few sites..." observed Mark & Kelly G. at McVille Dam Campground. Booking ahead ensures space for you and your pet.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Woodland Resort offers limited play facilities. "Woodland gets lower marks for summer amenities not related to fishing or the lake. Ex no pool and we didn't find a playground," notes Darren L. Consider bringing portable games for children.
Beach activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas suitable for families with pets. "Awesome views, swimming beach, fishing, hot showers and dog park," describes Sandy about Grahams Island State Park. Morning beach visits work best for dog owners to avoid peak crowds.
Event spaces: Some campgrounds provide gathering facilities. "The event center is really nice with kitchen, bathrooms, outdoor seating, and playground. Lots to do at this lake campground," shares Leah A., making Grahams Island suitable for family reunions with pets.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: East Bay Campground offers full connections for RVs with pets. "What a beautiful and spacious campground. Nice office/bait shop, and friendly people. We had a blast camping and fishing," reports Cody. However, be aware that "Lots of activity around the campground makes it fairly noisy."
Site leveling needs: Jan's RV Park requires some preparation. "Our site #6 needed leveling blocks but got pretty flat," notes Thomas R. This is important for larger RVs with slide-outs and for securing pets inside vehicles.
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures can affect camping comfort. "In the summer I believe they have cross-country skiing?" mentions a reviewer about winter options at Grahams Island State Park. Seasonal planning helps ensure appropriate activities and comfort for pets.
