Dog-friendly National Parks

Dog-friendly National Parks – America’s national parks are true gems of absolute treasures, stunning beauty, and breathtaking terrain. Across the country, millions of people have experienced its awe-inspiring landscapes, untouched wilderness and rich biodiversity. Since Yellowstone was established as the first of its kind in 1872, a total of 63 national parks* have been designated by statute in 30 states and two territories.

You may be surprised to know that most national parks do not allow dogs. There are a few reasons for this, but these policies are primarily to protect the environment and avoid any interaction with the park’s wildlife. Some parks, while allowing dogs, restrict their access to trails and other areas.

Dog-friendly National Parks

The good news is that there are still some spectacular dog-friendly national parks. Of course, you have to follow some basic rules like keeping your dog on a leash of six feet or less and making sure to clean up after them. We recommend checking each park’s website for any specific pet rules that may apply locally.

The Most Dog Friendly National Parks

Well, let’s find out — here are the best dog-friendly national parks where you can make memories to last a lifetime.

Located along the coast near Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park covers the middle of two islands and the tip of a stunning and lush peninsula. Boasting the famous Cadillac Mountain, the highest mountain on America’s Atlantic coast, the park is filled with massive, glacially perched cliffs, pebble beaches, granite domes and stunning canyons . John D. Dogs are welcome on the 100 miles of hiking trails established by Rockefeller Jr. and the 45 miles of the historic crushed stone carriage road system. You may not bring your puppy near lakes and natural water bodies, but still. There is so much to explore in this incredible gem of the sea.

One of the most pet-friendly national parks of them all, Shenandoah National Park contains a majestic section of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is famous for Skyline Drive, which cuts along the mountain ridge. The river that bears its name carves a wide valley to the west, while the hills of the Virginia Piedmont rise gracefully to the east. Dogs are allowed on an incredible 500 miles of trails, including significant portions of the Appalachian Trail.

America’s newest national park* is also one of the most dog-friendly. Located in the southern Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia, it was created to protect and maintain the New River Gorge and surrounding areas. Rich in natural and cultural history, the park has incredible geological features carved by flowing water.

The 7 Dog Friendly National Parks In The Continental United States

Visitors can enjoy many recreational activities, including some of the best white water rafting in the country. The features of the Appalachian Plateau are particularly unique, with more than 300 meters of sandstone and shale. Allowed on 100% of the trails in this pet-friendly park, dogs can explore everything from rocks and canals to the ruins of an abandoned mining town.

Located between Akron and Cleveland, the Cuyahoga Valley is one of the most unique national parks in the country. The only one bordering two major urban areas, it has an extensive road network, several small towns, 15 public parks, a golf course and many private attractions. You can also explore caves formed by rockfalls. Dog parents can walk their pups on more than 100 miles of trails and see impressive rocks strewn along the way.

Along Lake Michigan, just southwest of Chicago, there are dunes formed by glacial movements, as well as vast stretches of forests, prairies, and swamps. This diverse landscape includes the 15,000+ acres of Indiana Dunes National Park. Visitors can enjoy lakeside West Beach (with a view of the city by the sea), fish, camp by the dunes, and more. Best of all, leashed dogs are free to roam the entire 15-mile beach of this dog-friendly park.

Adjacent to its namesake town, Hot Springs National Park is a small accessible park with a very distinctive feature. You’ll find natural springs at the base of Hot Springs Mountain that produce half a million gallons of hot water and steam every day. Along with the town’s historic bathhouse, guests can enjoy the nearby mountains, woods, campsites and town at their leisure. You and your friend can explore 26 miles of pet-friendly trails dotting the city.

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Occupying a large part of the Tularosa Basin, this unique national park contains dunes made of chalk crystals. It is one of the largest national parks, spread over approximately 150,000 acres. A popular filming location for Westerns during Hollywood’s Golden Age, it is surrounded by the White Sands Missile Range, a historic military testing area and firing range.

Like many other newly established national parks, White Sands is very dog ​​friendly. Your pup is allowed to walk on the sand dunes and all its wonderful chairs. Many people think that national parks are pet-free, but many are actually dog-friendly. A handful of parks in the West allow pets on designated trails and have safe accommodations for pets for owners who want to explore without their animal.

It may come as a surprise, but many of America’s most visited parks allow dogs on trails and campgrounds. In particular, you can walk your four-legged friends in developed areas, as well as on paved roads, sidewalks and bike paths. Dog-friendly camping can be found throughout the park, except for hiking campsites and group campsites. Don’t forget to cuddle your fur baby, follow her and never leave her in the car.

The Grand Canyon offers many fantastic options for travelers with pets. On the South Rim, leashed dogs can go on any trail above the rim. The North Rim is tighter, with dog access limited to a greenway that connects the North Kaibab Trail and part of the Arizona Trail. If you’re hoping to explore the dog-restricted area, you can park your pup at the Grand Canyon Kennel for the day (they also accept cats). The park offers several great pet-friendly hotels. Animals are welcome at Mather Campground, Desert View Campground, Trailer Village and Yavapai Lodge.

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Experience one of the most beautiful sections of the Pacific Crest Trail with your pup. Dog-friendly hiking can be found on an 18-mile section of the PCT through North Cascades National Park. Pets are also welcome in many of the recreation areas around the park, such as Ross Lake and Lake Chelan.

Zion National Park offers an excellent hiking trail for dogs, the 3.5 mile Parus Trail. Dogs are allowed in all developed areas of the park, such as paved roads, campgrounds, and picnic areas.  If you want to explore the park without your pet, animals are allowed in your campsite as long as they are properly restrained (and the weather conditions are safe). Remember, Zion gets incredibly hot, so keep your animal cool and hydrated at all times.

Almost all Great Sand Dunes are open to pets and their owners. The only places you can’t bring your four-legged friend are in the backcountry, backpacking sites, and off-trail areas. However there are many dangers in the park, such as hot sand, cactus and wild animals, so be careful.

Dog visitors are really encouraged here! Pets are allowed anywhere in the park—on roads, trails, and wilderness areas. The visitor center also offers honorary “Bark Ranger” dog tags.  

National Park Paws Is Dog Info For American National Parks & Protected Public Lands

Dogs are allowed on many trails and beaches in Olympic National Park, including Peabody Creek Trail, Madison Falls Trail, Spruce Railroad Trail, and July Creek Loop Trail. You can also get sandy with your pup on the dog-friendly beaches between the Hoh and Quinault reservations in the Kalaloch area. Pets are welcome in campgrounds, picnic areas, and paved and unpaved roads.

White Sands National Monument, NM Pets are allowed in this 275 square mile chalk dune park. As in all other parks, pets must be on a six-foot leash and must be picked up by the owners.  

To the west, Acadia National Park, Shenandoah National Park, and Cuyahoga Valley National Park all offer plenty of dog-friendly hiking and camping options. With over 100 miles of trails, carriage roads to explore, and free pet-friendly shuttles, visiting Acadia National Park with dogs is a real treat for the whole family!

Acadia National Park requires a commitment. Located in the northeast corner of America, this is not a place that you just happen upon. Boston is the nearest major city and is 250 miles away!

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But, like most things that require a little effort, Acadia’s payoff far outweighs the investment. And for those traveling with pets, this is one national park that is guaranteed not to disappoint!

Glaciers carved this beautiful landscape over thousands of years. Behind to the left are rounded mountain peaks and deep valleys that now contain lakes and freshwater ponds. The advance and retreat of the ice surface layers, which expose the pink granite, make this area so unique.

Now you and your dogs can contemplate the monumental powers that accompany Acadia’s spectacular beauty.

Whatever your preference or skill level, you’ll have a blast

Dog Friendly Parks

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