Bringing your furry companion along for a national park adventure can make for an unforgettable trip, but not all parks are equally welcoming to dogs.
Many have strict regulations to protect delicate ecosystems and wildlife, limiting where pets can roam.
To help you plan a pawsome getaway, we’ve curated a list of 15 of the best dog-friendly national parks in the U.S., complete with top trails, campsites, and tips to ensure you and your pup have a safe and memorable experience.
1. Acadia National Park, Maine
Nestled along Maine’s rugged Atlantic coast, Acadia National Park spans 47,000 acres of rocky headlands, lush forests, and serene ponds.
With 158 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of dog-friendly carriage roads, it’s a paradise for you and your pup.
Top Dog-Friendly Hikes
- Bar Island Trail: A short, 1.5-mile round-trip hike accessible at low tide, offering stunning coastal views.
- Gorham Mountain Trail: A moderate 3.2-mile loop with panoramic Atlantic vistas, free of ladders or rungs.
- Wonderland Trail: An easy 1.4-mile out-and-back trail perfect for a leisurely stroll to the shoreline.
Camping with Your Dog
Blackwoods and Seawall Campgrounds welcome leashed dogs. Book early for summer and fall, as sites fill fast. Bring extra blankets for chilly coastal nights and waste bags to keep the park pristine.
Tips
Dogs are allowed on park shuttles and most public areas, except Sand Beach, Echo Lake Beach, and Duck Harbor Campground during peak season.
Test trail surfaces for heat, as rocky paths can get warm. Acadia’s carriage roads, built by John D. Rockefeller Jr., are ideal for relaxed walks with minimal elevation.
Acadia’s Official Dog Policy
2. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
Home to North America’s tallest sand dunes, Great Sand Dunes National Park offers a surreal landscape of towering dunes, wetlands, and alpine lakes, backed by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Leashed dogs are welcome across much of the park, including the dunes and the Great Sand Dunes National Preserve.
Top Dog-Friendly Hikes
- High Dune: A 2.5-mile round-trip hike with 700 feet of elevation gain, offering sweeping dune field views.
- Star Dune: A challenging 6-mile round-trip trek to the tallest dune at 750 feet, ideal for adventurous pups.
- Medano Creek: A flat, splash-friendly area in late spring/early summer where dogs can cool off.
Camping with Your Dog
Pinon Flats Campground, open April to October, is pet-friendly and provides easy dune access. Bring plenty of water and a portable shade for your dog, as natural cover is scarce.
Tips
Sand can reach 150°F in summer—test it with your hand before hiking. Early mornings or evenings offer cooler temperatures and stunning light. Always carry extra water and a collapsible bowl to keep your pup hydrated in this arid environment.
GSDNP Official Pet Policy
3. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Just 50 miles from Washington, D.C., Shenandoah National Park boasts 200,000 acres of Blue Ridge Mountains, cascading waterfalls, and over 500 miles of trails, with only 20 off-limits to dogs.
Top Dog-Friendly Hikes
- Hawksbill Gap Trail: A 3-mile round-trip hike to the park’s highest peak at 4,050 feet, with breathtaking valley views.
- Limberlost Trail: A flat, 1.4-mile accessible loop through lush forest, perfect for older dogs.
- Rose River Loop: A moderate 4-mile loop with waterfalls and streams for a refreshing dip.
Camping with Your Dog
Big Meadows, Loft Mountain, and Lewis Mountain Campgrounds are dog-friendly, as are Skyland and Big Meadows Lodge for those preferring cabins. Reserve early for peak seasons.
Tips
Black bears are common, so keep your dog leashed and practice strong recall commands. Skyline Drive offers scenic pullouts for lazy days, but check for seasonal trail closures. Bring extra water and waste bags for multi-day adventures.
4. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Step back in time at Petrified Forest National Park, where colorful petrified logs, badlands, and 13,000 years of human history create a unique desert landscape. The park’s Bark Ranger program encourages responsible pet ownership with a special tag for your dog.
Top Dog-Friendly Hikes
- Crystal Forest Trail: A paved, 0.75-mile loop showcasing vibrant petrified wood.
- Blue Mesa Trail: A 1-mile loop through bluish badlands with panoramic views.
- Painted Desert Rim Trail: A 1-mile out-and-back trail with stunning vistas of the desert.
Camping with Your Dog
Backcountry camping is permitted with a free wilderness permit from entrance stations. Campsites are primitive, so pack ample water, food, and waste bags.
Tips
Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F, so hike early or late and check ground heat to protect paws. Dogs are welcome on all trails and roads, including Route 66 pullouts.
The Bark Ranger program at the visitor center is a fun way to engage your pup.
5. Congaree National Park, South Carolina
Congaree National Park preserves 26,276 acres of old-growth hardwood forest, with towering pines, bald cypress, and wetlands teeming with wildlife. Dogs are welcome on all trails, boardwalks, rivers, and campgrounds.
Top Dog-Friendly Hikes
- Boardwalk Loop: A 2.4-mile elevated trail through the forest, ideal for avoiding mud.
- Weston Lake Loop: A 4.7-mile moderate hike with views of wetlands and wildlife.
- River Trail: A 10.8-mile trek to the Congaree River, perfect for adventurous dogs.
Camping with Your Dog
Longleaf and Bluff Campgrounds are pet-friendly, offering serene spots under towering pines. Bring insect repellent for mosquitoes, especially in warmer months.
Tips
Spring flooding can make trails muddy, so plan for late fall or winter for drier conditions. Kayaking or canoeing with your dog on the Congaree River is a unique way to explore. Always carry extra water and a sturdy leash.
6. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
Known for the world’s largest cave system, Mammoth Cave National Park offers rolling hills, river valleys, and diverse trails.
While caves are off-limits to dogs, the surrounding trails are a haven for canine explorers.
Top Dog-Friendly Hikes
- Green River Bluffs Trail: A 1.3-mile moderate hike to a scenic river overlook.
- Heritage Trail: A 0.5-mile paved loop near the visitor center with interpretive signs.
- North Side Trails: Miles of wooded paths through historic homestead sites.
Camping with Your Dog
Mammoth Cave, Maple Springs, and nearby Nolin Lake State Park Campgrounds welcome dogs. Kennels are available at Mammoth Cave Lodge for cave tours (reservations recommended).
Tips
Bring proof of rabies vaccination for kennel use. Check for ticks after hikes, and carry ample water, as summer heat can be intense. The park’s UNESCO status highlights its rich biodiversity, so keep dogs leashed to protect wildlife.
7. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
White Sands National Park’s 145,762 acres of shimmering gypsum dunes create a dog-friendly playground where pets are allowed almost everywhere, except the visitor center and gift shop.
Top Dog-Friendly Hikes
- Alkali Flat Trail: A 5-mile round-trip trek into the heart of the dunes with expansive views.
- Dune Life Nature Trail: A 1-mile easy loop with signs about local flora and fauna.
- Interdune Boardwalk: A 0.4-mile accessible path for a quick, scenic stroll.
Camping with Your Dog
Ten backcountry campsites are available first-come, first-served. Pack all supplies, including water and waste bags, as sites are primitive.
Tips
Avoid summer heat by visiting in fall, winter, or spring. Use dog booties to protect paws from hot sand, and bring sunglasses for yourself to combat glare. The dunes glow beautifully at sunset, making evening hikes a must.
8. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Ohio’s only national park, Cuyahoga Valley, spans 33,000 acres of forests, rivers, and rolling hills. With over 125 miles of trails, most are dog-friendly, making it a hidden gem for pet owners.
Top Dog-Friendly Hikes
- Ledges Trail: A 2.2-mile loop through dramatic rock formations and lush forest.
- Oak Hill Trail: A 2.1-mile easy loop with gentle terrain for all dogs.
- Towpath Trail: A flat, 20-mile trail along the historic Ohio & Erie Canal, perfect for long walks.
Camping with Your Dog
While the park lacks traditional campgrounds, nearby private campgrounds like Crystal Springs welcome dogs. Check local options for pet policies.
Tips
Dogs must be leashed, especially near the Cuyahoga River, where currents can be strong.
The park’s train, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, allows dogs on select rides—check schedules in advance.
9. New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia
This park, centered around the New River, offers rugged cliffs, lush forests, and over 100 miles of dog-friendly trails. Known for its whitewater rafting and scenic beauty, it’s a great spot for active dogs.
Top Dog-Friendly Hikes
- Endless Wall Trail: A 2.4-mile moderate loop with stunning gorge views.
- Long Point Trail: A 3.2-mile out-and-back trail to a scenic overlook of the New River Gorge Bridge.
- Canyon Rim Boardwalk: A 0.2-mile accessible path with panoramic views.
Camping with Your Dog
Stone Cliff and Grandview Sandbar Campgrounds are pet-friendly, offering riverside sites. Backcountry camping is also an option with a permit.
Tips
The river can have strong currents, so keep dogs leashed near water. Check for ticks in forested areas, and bring extra water for warm days.
10. Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana
Located along Lake Michigan’s southern shore, Indiana Dunes offers 15,000 acres of beaches, dunes, and forests. Dogs are welcome on most trails and beaches, except during summer swimming season.
Top Dog-Friendly Hikes
- Cowles Bog Trail: A 4.7-mile moderate loop through wetlands and dunes.
- Dune Succession Trail: A 1-mile loop showcasing dune ecology.
- West Beach Loop: A 3.4-mile trail with beach access for splashing pups.
Camping with Your Dog
Dunewood Campground is pet-friendly, with easy access to trails and beaches. Reserve early for peak seasons.
Tips
Dogs are banned from swimming beaches from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Bring booties for hot sand, and check for ticks in grassy areas.
11. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
This park combines historic bathhouses with 26 miles of dog-friendly trails through the Ouachita Mountains. Its compact size makes it ideal for a quick getaway with your pup.
Top Dog-Friendly Hikes
- Goat Rock Trail: A 2.8-mile moderate hike with views of the Ouachita Mountains.
- Gulpha Gorge Trail: A 1.2-mile loop with creek access for cooling off.
- Hot Springs Mountain Trail: A 2.6-mile loop with scenic overlooks.
Camping with Your Dog
Gulpha Gorge Campground welcomes dogs, with sites near trails and creeks. Book early for spring and fall.
Tips
The park’s urban proximity means busy trails, so keep dogs leashed. Bring water, as natural springs may not be safe for drinking.
12. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
Capitol Reef’s dramatic desert landscape includes canyons, domes, and 100 miles of dog-friendly trails. Pets are allowed on unpaved trails and in developed areas.
Top Dog-Friendly Hikes
- Capitol Gorge Trail: A 2-mile out-and-back trail through a scenic canyon.
- Goosenecks Trail: A 0.2-mile easy path to a stunning overlook.
- Hickman Bridge Trail: A 1.8-mile moderate hike to a natural rock bridge.
Camping with Your Dog
Fruita Campground is pet-friendly, offering shaded sites near orchards. Backcountry camping requires a permit.
Tips
Summer heat can be intense, so hike early and use booties to protect paws from hot rocks. Carry extra water for desert conditions.
13. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan
This park features towering dunes, forests, and Lake Michigan shorelines. Dogs are allowed on most trails, beaches, and campgrounds, making it a Great Lakes gem.
Top Dog-Friendly Hikes
- Dune Climb Trail: A 3.6-mile strenuous hike up massive dunes with lake views.
- Empire Bluff Trail: A 1.5-mile out-and-back trail to a scenic bluff.
- Bay View Trail: A 4-mile loop through rolling hills and forests.
Camping with Your Dog
D.H. Day and Platte River Campgrounds are pet-friendly, with access to beaches and trails. Reserve early for summer.
Tips
Avoid hot sand on dunes by hiking early or late. Keep dogs leashed near cliffs, and bring water for longer hikes.
14. Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
This urban park, centered around the iconic Gateway Arch, offers dog-friendly green spaces and trails along the Mississippi River, perfect for a city-adventure hybrid.
Top Dog-Friendly Hikes
- Riverfront Trail: A 3-mile paved path along the Mississippi River.
- Old Courthouse Loop: A 0.5-mile easy walk around historic grounds.
- Arch Grounds Trail: A 1-mile loop through park landscapes.
Camping with Your Dog
No campgrounds are available, but nearby private sites like St. Louis RV Park welcome dogs.
Tips
Dogs are not allowed inside the Arch or museum, so focus on outdoor trails. Keep leashed in busy urban areas.
15. Saguaro National Park, Arizona
Saguaro’s iconic cacti and desert trails span two districts near Tucson. Dogs are allowed on most trails and roads, offering a classic Southwest experience.
Top Dog-Friendly Hikes
- Desert Discovery Nature Trail: A 0.4-mile paved loop with interpretive signs.
- Freeman Homestead Trail: A 1-mile loop through desert landscapes.
- Tanque Verde Ridge Trail: A 2-mile out-and-back hike with moderate elevation.
Camping with Your Dog
No campgrounds are within the park, but nearby Tucson-area campgrounds like Gilbert Ray are pet-friendly.
Tips
Summer heat is extreme, so hike early and use booties. Watch for snakes and cacti, and carry extra water.
Dog Etiquette in National Parks
To ensure a positive experience for all, follow these guidelines:
- Keep Dogs Leashed: Use a 6-foot or shorter leash to prevent wildlife encounters and respect other visitors.
- Clean Up Waste: Pack out all dog waste in sealed bags to protect ecosystems.
- Control Barking: Bring treats or toys to manage vocal dogs, especially in quiet areas.
- Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals to avoid stress or conflict.
- Trail Courtesy: Yield to other hikers and ask permission before letting your dog approach others.
Parks to Avoid with Dogs
Some parks have strict restrictions due to fragile environments or wildlife:
- Yellowstone: Dogs are banned from trails and boardwalks due to geothermal hazards and wildlife.
- Yosemite: Pets are limited to paved areas and campgrounds to protect habitats.
- Zion: Only the Pa’rus Trail allows dogs, as canyons are too fragile.
- Rocky Mountain: No dogs on trails due to abundant wildlife like moose and bears.
- Glacier: Grizzly bears and rugged terrain limit dogs to campgrounds and parking areas.
Always check park-specific rules before visiting to avoid disappointment.
Essential Gear for Dog-Friendly Adventures
- Collapsible Water Bowl: Lightweight and portable for hydration on the go.
- Dog Boots: Protect paws from hot sand, sharp rocks, or ice.
- Cooling Vest: Keeps dogs comfortable in desert climates.
- Hands-Free Leash: Allows freedom for you while keeping your dog close.
- First-Aid Kit: Include gauze, antiseptic, and tweezers for minor injuries.
- Dog Pack: Let fit dogs carry 10-15% of their weight with essentials like treats and water.
- ID Tags/Microchip: Ensure contact info is current in case of separation.
Safety Tips for Hiking with Dogs
- Monitor for Overheating: Watch for heavy panting or lethargy; stop in shade with water if needed.
- Be Wildlife Aware: Scan for snakes, bears, or other animals, and keep dogs leashed.
- Avoid Stream Water: Bring clean water to prevent giardia or other parasites.
- Check Paws Regularly: Inspect for cuts, burns, or debris during and after hikes.
- Train Recall: Ensure your dog responds to “come” or “leave it” for safety.
Camping Tips with Dogs
- Choose Pet-Friendly Sites: Confirm campground rules before booking.
- Never Leave Dogs Alone: Wildlife or weather changes can pose risks.
- Secure Food: Store dog food in bearproof containers or vehicles.
- Pack for Comfort: Bring a dog bed or blanket for warmth.
- Morning Etiquette: Keep dogs quiet and walk them away from campsites at dawn.
Final Thoughts
Exploring national parks with your dog is a rewarding way to bond and experience America’s natural wonders.
From Acadia’s coastal trails to Saguaro’s cactus-studded deserts, these 15 parks offer endless opportunities for adventure.
By planning ahead, packing the right gear, and respecting park rules, you and your pup can create memories that last a lifetime—without leaving a trace behind.