Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Cowanesque Lake in Pennsylvania

Looking for the best options for camping with dogs near Cowanesque Lake? The Dyrt can help you find the best campsites for you and your dog. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the woods or a happening campground near the attractions, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to go camping with your dog.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Cowanesque Lake, PA (89)

    Camper-submitted photo from Watkins Glen State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Watkins Glen State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Watkins Glen State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Watkins Glen State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Watkins Glen State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Watkins Glen State Park Campground

    1. Watkins Glen State Park Campground

    86 Reviews
    302 Photos
    614 Saves
    Watkins Glen, New York

    Watkins Glen State Park is the most famous of the Finger Lakes State Parks, with a reputation for leaving visitors spellbound. Within two miles, the glen's stream descends 400 feet past 200-foot cliffs, generating 19 waterfalls along its course. The gorge path winds over and under waterfalls and through the spray of Cavern Cascade. Rim trails overlook the gorge. Camping near Watkins Glen allows you to enjoy the Olympic-size pool, scheduled summer tours through the gorge, tent and trailer campsites, picnic facilities and excellent fishing in nearby Seneca Lake or Catherine Creek, which is renowned for its annual spring run of rainbow trout.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Ives Run
    Camper-submitted photo from Ives Run
    Camper-submitted photo from Ives Run
    Camper-submitted photo from Ives Run
    Camper-submitted photo from Ives Run
    Camper-submitted photo from Ives Run

    2. Ives Run

    15 Reviews
    30 Photos
    142 Saves
    Middlebury Center, Pennsylvania

    Overview

    Ives Run Campground sits on the eastern shore of Hammond Lake in north-central Pennsylvania. Surrounded by lush forested ridges, the lake offers recreation for the entire family, including picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, hunting and wildlife watching. Ives Run, with its beach and grassy sunning area, is a great place for kids of any age. The facility has campsites as well as group picnic shelters that can be reserved for family reunions, company picnics, neighborhood gatherings and other group events.

    Recreation

    Tioga-Hammond Lakes offer a variety of outdoor activities. With a boat ramp and overnight mooring, campers can easily spend time on the water. Anglers seek out record crappie, giant musky, striped, largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye and channel catfish. The fields and forests around the lakes are popular destinations for both local and out-of-state hunters looking for large and small game species native to the eastern hardwood forests. Four hiking trails, each offering something different, can be accessed from this facility. Near the visitor center, archers use the mile-long Archery Trail, which has targets and tree stands.

    Natural Features

    The partially forested campground sits in the pristine setting of the Endless Mountains region of Pennsylvania, along the Allegheny Plateau in the Appalachian Mountains. The Tioga-Hammond Lakes Project consists of two separate dams and reservoirs. The surrounding land paints a scenic picture of rolling mountains and open fields.

    Contact Info

    This location has limited staffing. Please call (570) 835-5281 for general information.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Reservations to include any reservation changes, such as cancel, refund requests, site transfer, or date changes cannot be made at facility location.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $40 - $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hills Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hills Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hills Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hills Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hills Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hills Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Leonard Harrison State Park — Leonard Harrison State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Leonard Harrison State Park — Leonard Harrison State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Leonard Harrison State Park — Leonard Harrison State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Leonard Harrison State Park — Leonard Harrison State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Leonard Harrison State Park — Leonard Harrison State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Leonard Harrison State Park — Leonard Harrison State Park

    4. Leonard Harrison State Park — Leonard Harrison State Park

    13 Reviews
    62 Photos
    111 Saves
    Gaines, Pennsylvania

    On the east rim of the 585-acre Leonard Harrison State Park, you'll find great pa grand canyon camping that offers modern facilities, a visitor center, and the most famous scenic views of the canyon. On the other side of the canyon is Colton Point State Park. The campground is open from the second Friday in April until the third Sunday in October. Picnic tables, fire rings, showers, flush toilets, and a sanitary dump station are provided.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $19 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Watkins Glen / Corning KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Watkins Glen / Corning KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Watkins Glen / Corning KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Watkins Glen / Corning KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Watkins Glen / Corning KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Watkins Glen / Corning KOA

    5. Watkins Glen / Corning KOA

    17 Reviews
    40 Photos
    50 Saves
    Montour Falls, New York
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Lyman Run State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lyman Run State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lyman Run State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lyman Run State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lyman Run State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lyman Run State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tompkins
    Camper-submitted photo from Tompkins
    Camper-submitted photo from Tompkins
    Camper-submitted photo from Tompkins
    Camper-submitted photo from Tompkins
    Camper-submitted photo from Tompkins

    7. Tompkins

    4 Reviews
    12 Photos
    70 Saves
    Lawrenceville, Pennsylvania

    Overview

    Tompkins Campground is on the north shore of Cowanesque Lake in the northern tier of Pennsylvania, less than one mile from the New York state border. Surrounded by lush forested ridges, the lake offers recreation for the entire family, including picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, hunting and wildlife watching. The campground is a great place for kids of any age.

    Recreation

    Cowanesque Lake offers a variety of outdoor activities. With a boat ramp and overnight mooring, campers can easily spend time on the water. There are a variety of indigenous fish that inhabit the area's streams and lakes, and fishing tournaments are held frequently. The North and South Tailrace areas provide access for fishing downstream of Cowanesque Dam. The fields and forests around the lakes are popular destinations for both local and out-of-state hunters looking for large and small game species native to the eastern hardwood forests. The 4 mile Moccasin Trail within the facility leads hikers on a trek through reclaimed farm fields and wood lots inhabited by a variety of watchable wildlife.

    Natural Features

    The partially forested campground sits in the pristine setting of the Endless Mountains region of Pennsylvania, along the Allegheny Plateau in the Appalachian Mountains. The surrounding land paints a scenic picture of rolling mountains and open fields.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Reservations to include any reservation changes, such as cancel, refund requests, site transfer, or date changes cannot be made at facility location.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ferenbaugh Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ferenbaugh Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ferenbaugh Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ferenbaugh Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ferenbaugh Campground

    8. Ferenbaugh Campground

    6 Reviews
    5 Photos
    27 Saves
    Big Flats, New York

    Five miles north of Corning, NY. Located between Corning and Watkins Glen. 319 acres. Swimming pool, fishing, hiking trails, mini golf, game room, planned weekend activities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Colton Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Colton Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Colton Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Colton Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Colton Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Colton Point State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bell Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bell Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bell Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bell Campground

    10. Camp Bell Campground

    4 Reviews
    4 Photos
    10 Saves
    Campbell, New York
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 89 campgrounds

Recent Dog-Friendly Reviews in Cowanesque Lake

526 Reviews of 89 Cowanesque Lake Campgrounds


  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from DB Adventures
    Nov. 14, 2024

    DB Adventures

    A great spot to camp

    So myself, my Girlfriend and our dog went up to hike the Grand Canyon and decided to spend the night. We were met with extremely friendly personnel. The site was easy to get to. And the bathrooms and showers were extremely clean. Honestly it was a huge plus picking this place to stay the night.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Taughannock Falls State Park Campground
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Taughannock Falls State Park Campground

    Great little campground

    Pulled back and punted bc of Storm Debbie. Lucked out with a find in the Finger Lakes. Nice campground. Has everything you need. Small sites but fine for our hybrid. Ours was shady. Check out which side the hookups are on. Some not situated on the right side so you’ll need extra long cords. Just beautiful area. Hiked here. Drove to Watkins Glen-hiked-absolutely breathtaking. That campground is much larger. Went to Buttermilk Falls too.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Watkins Glen State Park Campground
    Oct. 11, 2024

    Watkins Glen State Park Campground

    Favorite State Park Spot

    I love that despite there being so many sites, you don’t feel on top of each other in Seneca Village. It’s a state campground so don’t expect it to be anything close to dispersed camping. Trees separated me from my neighbors on either side, woods behind my tent, lots of quiet, no one blasted music or anything like that. I woke up to seeing trees above me and hearing birds. The bathroom was clean, with multiple ways to enter it without going near someone else’s site. The campground felt safe, and you are able to buy firewood (I didn’t due to quite a bit of rain). To get to the gorge trail, you have to walk over to the next site (Oswego I think) but it’s not too far. I would most likely stay at that loop next time though because it seemed to have even more space on each site. I didn’t see any bears and asked a few workers but only one had seen a bear the entire time they’ve been there. Definitely recommend this location. Lots of beautiful trails, red cat wine slushies were delicious, grounds were fun to explore and people were either friendly or kept to themselves which was great. Super dog friendly and I met many of them! Just a note, dogs are NOT allowed on the gorge trail.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping
    Oct. 1, 2024

    Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping

    Amazing campground

    Very well maintained. Some sites are close and some a spread out. About half of them are in the sun and half get shade all day. I switched sites after a day to get some solar charging. Clean bathrooms with flush toilets. Sign in near bathrooms on arrival. Dogs must be on a leash but I found a spot down the hill to the south where there are no campsites to let them play fetch for a bit.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Excellent Free Site

    No show but decent bathrooms. I spent a night at Watkins Glen the only advantage was the shower. But you can wash up well here. You can stay horses here, each site has a fire pit and it feels safe.

  • Jolene J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Pine State Park Campground
    Aug. 17, 2024

    Little Pine State Park Campground

    Clean quiet campground

    This is a nice clean quiet campground. It's a great stop if you're doing rails to trails or swimming at the beach up the road. (Note to get to both places you'll need to drive). We went on a weekday and it wasn't crowded but I've heard on the weekends it gets packed. There are two sets of swings and one slide. The bathrooms have showers and were clean. Some of the spots are smaller and right next to each other (down by the creek and up around top). But spots 68,69,70 are prime. We were in spot 75 right next to the bridge and not ideal

  • Emily F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Stony Brook State Park Campground
    Aug. 2, 2024

    Stony Brook State Park Campground

    Review about sites 321 to 325

    I stayed here and it was very peaceful, but it was also pretty empty. Some of the sides are very close together, but if you look around, you can get one that has a little bit more privacy. Clean bathrooms, clean showers. Hikes from the site. Swimming as well!!

  • Greg W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Stony Fork Creek Campground
    Aug. 2, 2024

    Stony Fork Creek Campground

    Great experience

    We arrived on Saturday and departed the following Friday. The campground was exceptionally maintained, bathrooms and showers virtually spotless and the pool was clearly and consistently maintained at all times. Plenty of space to spread out and walk. All of the roads were paved and sites were very large.

  • Craig F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Finger Lakes RV Resort
    Jul. 31, 2024

    Finger Lakes RV Resort

    Quiet and Relaxing

    Amazing RV park!I can't stop talking about the Finger Lakes RV park and the great experience we had there. FLRV opened in the last couple years and is a great addition to the camping options around the Finger Lakes. Located about 1/3 of the way up the eastern side of Seneca Lake, the location provides easy access to the wineries, distilleries, and breweries along the lake.

    This is a family owned campground and the owners were very friendly and took pride in their business. Fresh baked chocolate chip cookies are included at check-in. The campground sites are very large and spread out. Being a newer campground, the trees are small, but that did not take away from the experience. Easy maneuverability, great wifi and water pressure, along with level sites make it a great place to stay. The bath house is immaculate and rivals those at Fort Wilderness Resort. 

    Amenities are minimal(no pool, playground, or golf carts), but they are bookended by two wineries with walking paths from the campground. Due to the minimal amenities, it is very quiet and relaxing especially in the evenings sitting around the campfire. 

    I look forward to returning to the Finger Lakes RV park as this is easily one of our top campgrounds when needing to relax.

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite
    Jul. 23, 2024

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Amazing campsite!!

    Stopped in to "ride out a rain storm." After surviving the night, we discovered all the amenities. Free garbage service daily, Water faucets were placed all over the campground. There is a Forest Fire Lookout Tower next to the bathrooms.

    Camp sites are disbursed so you don't feel crowded or squeezed for space.

    Weekends are very busy but weekdays there were no more than 7 or 8 campsites occupied each night.

    The horse stalls were used regularly and seeing horses coming and going on trail rides is a daily occurrence.

  • Matt S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Finger Lakes RV Resort
    Jul. 19, 2024

    Finger Lakes RV Resort

    Great for Waterfalls & Wine!

    We stayed at Finger Lakes RV Resort in Hector, a short drive from Watkins Glen and Ithaca, in search of waterfalls and wine in the Finger Lakes region of NY state. 

    This is a fairly new campground, operated by a friendly husband and wife who show great pride in the condition and cleanliness of every square inch. 

    THINGS I ESPECIALLY LIKED: 

    • Easy drive to Watkins Glen, Lake Seneca, Ithaca, and the greater Finger Lakes region. 

    • Everything is in great condition and clean. 

    • Daily trash and recycling pick-up from each site. 

    • Walking paths from the campground to two different wineries. 

    • Really nice pavilion for group gatherings and watching the sunset. 

    • We experienced a severe thunderstorm one evening which resulted in an area-wide power outage that lasted a couple days. Of course, the campground had no responsibility or control over this situation, but they refunded everybody a night’s stay as a courtesy. Thanks, Rachael and Doug! 

    THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: 

    • This campground does not offer a pool, jump pad, sports facilities, amenities, or activities. They offer a clean and safe place to stay while visiting the area. For me, this is a positive, not a complaint. 

    • There’s no shade from trees or otherwise. If you’re visiting during the summer, be sure your air conditioning and awnings are working. 

    • They sell firewood and propane. 

    WOULD WE COME BACK? 

    • Absolutely, this is a great place to stay for wine and waterfalls.
  • Amber C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Pine State Park Campground
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Little Pine State Park Campground

    Nice Place

    The campground is beautifully kept. Bathrooms and sites were nice. Some sites are alittle closer personally esp in the dog area. It was extremely buggy when we went. Our dogs wouldn't come out of the camper because there was no relief. It was the height of rattle snake season. A site near ours and very close to the playground had a rattler under their camper. Alittle too close for comfort. Otherwise, campers, rangers and hosts were nice to deal!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Palmers Pond State Forest
    Jul. 7, 2024

    Palmers Pond State Forest

    Quiet and beautiful

    The written directions from other reviews were easy to follow. The road was gravel but pretty easy to drive. I found one of the first spots and was very comfortable. Beautiful space, some people drove past but not much noise aside from that. Loved this spot!

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Watkins Glen State Park Campground
    Jun. 29, 2024

    Watkins Glen State Park Campground

    Nice campground and beautiful gorge

    Site is sloped, shaded and right next to the bathrooms and water spigot. ATT coverage is decent. Other side of the bathrooms is access to the gorge trails. Pets are not allowed on the gorge trail itself but the rim and other trails are fine.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Retreat at Fern Hill
    Jun. 23, 2024

    Retreat at Fern Hill

    Clean, private, swimming!

    Stayed here multiple times. Cabin is clean, large firepit, huge patio, great swimming pond with a slide. Cabin included many kitchen items as well as there being a full size freezer/fridge, tables and chairs on the patio. Pet Friendly but no fenced area.

  • P
    Camper-submitted photo from Taughannock Falls State Park Campground
    Jun. 20, 2024

    Taughannock Falls State Park Campground

    Below average SP campground

    As for RV camping, this place is outdated. Sites are on top of one another, but some have good shade. Ours, site 6 didn't. Really can't walk to beach area or store. Cheap enough at $25. T-storms knocked out power overnight.

  • MJ B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Stony Fork Creek Campground
    Jun. 19, 2024

    Stony Fork Creek Campground

    Good Camping Option to the Grand Canyon of PA

    Stayed at this campsite, taking our pop-up camper on its maiden voyage to the Grand Canyon of PA. Was able to choose a location that worked best for us. The area we selected was not busy. Campsite appeared to have a lot of seasonal campers. My husband does not like staying in crowded campgrounds with people surrounding you and up all night screaming and singing. We go camping to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. Not to listen to people pretending to relive their college days....lol. Area is open, not offering a lot of privacy, but we had shade and woods behind us, and the ground was grassy and level. The pool was nice and the rec center had a lot of activities for kids. The pond offered fishing and pedal boat rentals. We chose this campsite due to its proximity to the Leonard Harrison State Park. We had no issues here and would recommend.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Trout Run Camp Resort
    Jun. 17, 2024

    Trout Run Camp Resort

    Trout Run Review

    Bathrooms were very clean. Lots of things to do for young ones; heated pool, splash pad, pickleball court, basketball hoops and Gaga ball court. Opportunity to rent kayaks, bikes and golf carts.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping
    Jun. 7, 2024

    Sugar Hill Recreation Area Camping

    Dog Friendly Retreat near Watkins Glen

    We stayed at Sugar Hill for about 10 days, arriving right after Memorial Day weekend. The campground offers a variety of great options for various rig sizes, accommodating different needs comfortably. Its location is convenient, just a 15-minute drive from Watkins Glen, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.

    During our stay, the campsite never even got near half full, providing a peaceful and uncrowded experience. For those seeking more privacy, there are numerous secluded spots along the side roads throughout the park.

    However, it's worth noting that WiFi and phone service are pretty limited, typically ranging between 1-2 bars. Despite this minor inconvenience, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would recommend Sugar Hill for its tranquility and proximity to local attractions.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Twin Streams Campground
    Jun. 4, 2024

    Twin Streams Campground

    Family Retreat by the Stream

    Spent Memorial Day weekend at this campground and found it bustling with activity yet still retaining a serene charm. Despite the crowd, we snagged a spot by the stream, which added an extra layer of tranquility to our stay. As the holiday wound down, so did the crowd, leaving behind a peaceful ambiance. Its proximity to the PA Grand Canyon made it an ideal base for exploration. While the WiFi was a bit spotty, offering only two bars in certain areas, it encouraged us to disconnect and fully immerse ourselves in nature, especially during the mesmerizing stargazing nights. Although there were plenty of annual RV residents, the atmosphere remained quaint and inviting. Overall, a delightful spot for a camping getaway.

  • V
    Camper-submitted photo from Pettecote Junction Campground
    May. 28, 2024

    Pettecote Junction Campground

    Nature Lover's Dream

    This is one of the best campgrounds we've ever stayed at. Beautifully maintained and landscaped, and the sites are level. Our site was literally on the river, we even saw an eagle. Their bathrooms are so clean I almost swept from joy. Keep in mind you need quarters for a hot shower but I only needed 2 quarters for 6 minutes, plenty of time. What I love most is how accessible the biking trail and river are. The staff will even shuttle you to the kayak drop off site for a fee, and then you just pull in right to the campground. We have been coming to this area for years and this is the first time we were lucky to snag a site for a Holiday weekend. We won't stay anywhere else from now on.

  • Lylah H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite
    May. 17, 2024

    Sugar Hill Fire Tower Campsite

    Great spot, follow the map around

    I believe it’s still off season so the spot with all the facilities wasn’t open. We used the map on the state forest website. But most spots have a privy/port o potty. We found the map on the website helpful because there are spots all over. Site 28 did have a sign about not awaking “butch and big daddy” as two young women we decided we didn’t want to stick around and meet them. There was a privy at 35 which was nice. The site by the pond was really cute with a privy but a walk in (believe it was 37)!



Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Cowanesque Lake?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Cowanesque Lake is Watkins Glen State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 86 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Cowanesque Lake?

    TheDyrt.com has all 89 dog-friendly camping locations near Cowanesque Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.