Pet-friendly parks
National parks are for the dogs (and cats, and animal friends).
Part of the fun of the great outdoors is enjoying it with your furry friend. And with a little planning, your pet can join you on your next national park trip. From an early morning on the trail to a swim in a mountain lake to a perfect photo shoot, there’s plenty of ways to roam with your four-legged family member.
Taking a tail-wagging good trip.
Camping, hiking, and spending time outside with your pet is a fun way to create fun memories. Our national parks provide plenty of ways, and environments, to do just that. And just like your pet is one-of-a-kind, each park is different—so doing your research beforehand can help you find the best place to travel.
A few things to consider
Respect local regulations
Ask about where pets are allowed. When in doubt, stick to developed areas such as campgrounds.
Prepare your pet
Just like you need to gear up to go outside, so does your pet. Be sure to bring water, food, sun protection (such as goggles), and booties to protect their paws.
Service animals
Different regulations apply to service animals and pets, as service animals are legally permitted anywhere visitors can go. Ask park staff if you have additional questions.
Obey leash laws
Keeping your pet on a short leash (six feet or less), is a way to keep them, you, other visitors, and wildlife safe.
Scoop the poop
Carry bags so you can pick up, and properly dispose of, your pet’s waste. This keeps parks beautiful for everyone.
Keep your distance
Just like you would view and enjoy wildlife from a safe distance, your pet should do the same.
Know everyone's limits
National parks are fun, but bringing your pet to an unfamiliar environment can be overstimulating. You know your furry friend best, so play it safe and take things slow.
Make your pet a B.A.R.K. Ranger
Some parks have special programs for pets and their owners. Complete the tasks unique to each park, and your pet can earn a B.A.R.K. Ranger badge.
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Our pet-friendly park picks
The diverse landscapes, species, and weather in national parks mean that each destination—and trip—is unique. These are our recommendations for the best parks for pet owners, as they offer more trails and areas than others to explore.
White Sands National Park
Dogs are allowed on all trails and in the dunefields of this special New Mexico park. And with stunning sunsets and otherworldly landscapes, it’s a great place to take photos too. Don’t miss out on the park’s unique B.A.R.K. Ranger program.
Petroglyph National Monument
You can explore Rinconada Canyon, Piedras Marcadas Canyon, and the Volcanoes Day Use Area with your pet. Be sure to bring booties to protect their paws during the hot summer months.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
Splash in the seasonal waters of Medano Creek, hike Mosca Pass Trail, and make the climb up to High Dune with your pet for a truly wild experience.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
From canyons to creeks to beaches, there are miles of areas open to pets in this California park. As this park is jointly managed between the National Park Service, California State Parks, and local cities and conservancies, do your research ahead of time to learn how regulations may differ.
Pecos National Historical Park
Looking to visit a cultural site close to the dog-friendly city of Santa Fe? Pecos National Historic Site has some pet-friendly trails. Reach out to a ranger to learn how you can enjoy the park while respecting the cultural resources preserved here.
Where to go
Explore parks for pet-friendly parks
Make your next national park trip one to remember by bringing your pet along.
Legend
- Partner Park
- Gateway City
