You'll find plenty of pet-friendly campgrounds in Oklahoma and Texas, especially within the state parks. Both states enforce regulations for pet visitors, so it's best to review those guidelines before you go, and individual parks occasionally have their own additional rules as well.
Oklahoma State Pet Rules
Oklahoma maintains a few simple, but important, rules for bringing pets into state parks for camping or other activities. Dogs with proof of current vaccinations must be leashed or crated in all public areas on state property. Some state parks allow pets in cottages and cabins; although keeping a pet in a cottage or cabin incurs a per-day fee of $10 for each pet, as of 2010, and owners assume responsibility for any pet-related property damage.
Oklahoma State Campgrounds
Situated about 20 miles south of Oklahoma City, Lake Thunderbird State Park offers more than 1,800 acres for exploring. Well-mannered, leashed dogs are allowed in camping and dog-walking areas for no additional fee, but animals are prohibited in swimming areas and park buildings. Some dog breeds are restricted.
Tucked up in the far northeast corner of Oklahoma, in Ottawa County, Twin Bridges State Park welcomes quiet, well-behaved pets of all sizes with no fee. Owners must leash pets and not leave them unattended at any time. Pets are permitted in dog-walking, camping and tent areas; however, they are not allowed on nature trails.
Texas State Pet Rules
Texas state rules for pets include maintaining animals on leashes of no more than six feet or keeping them crated on park property. Pets can never be left unattended in a Texas state park, and they must be kept out of no-pet areas, including restaurants, lodges, snack bars and any administration buildings. Noisy, or dangerous pets, are banned from Texas state parks.
Texas Campgrounds
Located on the Texas Gulf coast, Galveston Island State Park allows pets with no size restrictions and no additional fees. This park offers a variety of water activities, but dogs are not allowed in public swim areas, nor can they enter public buildings. Trails are open to dogs, as are all camping and tent areas.
About 100 miles north of San Antonio, outside Junction, Texas, you'll find the South Llano River State Park. In keeping with state rules, pets must be on leashes no longer than six feet. And while they are allowed in campground areas, pets are prohibited from entering park buildings, cabins and shelters. The park boasts four miles of trails for hiking, biking and nature walking.
Private Campgrounds
Across Oklahoma and Texas you also can find private camping and RV parks that permit pets. If you plan to visit a private camping area, call ahead to be sure you know the policies before bringing your pet.
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