Dog-Friendly National Parks: Where to Bring Your Pup
National Parks are some of the most beautiful places in the country — and luckily, a handful of them are dog-friendly, too. While many parks have strict restrictions on where dogs can go, a few offer hiking trails, scenic views, and even ranger programs designed just for pups and their people.
Here are six National Parks that welcome four-legged explorers — plus a breakdown of the BARK Ranger program that’s making tails wag across the country.
Great Sand Dunes National Park (Colorado)
Dog policy: One of the most dog-friendly National Parks in the country, Great Sand Dunes welcomes leashed pets throughout many areas of the park.
Where dogs are allowed: The main use area of the dunefield (up to the first ridge), Piñon Flats Campground, Dunes Overlook Trail, and Medano Pass Primitive Road.
What to know: Summer sand can get dangerously hot for paws. Visit early or late in the day and cool off in Medano Creek when flowing.
Crater Lake National Park (Oregon)
Dog policy: While Crater Lake has stricter pet rules, dogs are still welcome in select areas.
Where dogs are allowed: Paved roads, Rim Village paths, Mazama Village, and dog-friendly trails like Godfrey Glen and Lady of the Woods.
What to know: Dogs aren’t allowed on most trails or by the lake itself. This park is best for leisurely walks and camping.
Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
Dog policy: Dogs are welcome on all paved trails at the South Rim.
Where dogs are allowed: South Rim Trail, Mather and Desert View Campgrounds, and pet-friendly lodging options.
What to know: Dogs are not allowed below the rim or on shuttle buses. There's also a kennel available for longer visits.
Yosemite National Park (California)
Yosemite allows dogs in developed areas and select trails like Wawona Meadow Loop.
Dog policy: Yosemite allows dogs in paved and developed areas with some hiking limitations.
Where dogs are allowed: Roads, sidewalks, bike paths in Yosemite Valley, campgrounds, and Wawona Meadow Loop.
What to know: Stick to paved trails and avoid waterfalls or wilderness areas. Always pack water and stay on leash.
Acadia National Park (Maine)
Acadia boasts 100+ miles of dog-friendly hiking trails and carriage roads.
Dog policy: One of the most dog-welcoming parks, Acadia offers tons of trails and camping for pups.
Where dogs are allowed: Over 100 miles of hiking trails, 45 miles of carriage roads, and multiple campgrounds.
What to know: Avoid ladder-style hikes. Try Jordan Pond Path or Eagle Lake for scenic, dog-safe walks.
Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona)
This is one of the only National Parks where dogs can go anywhere humans can.
Dog policy: Petrified Forest is exceptionally dog-friendly — dogs are allowed on all trails!
Where dogs are allowed: Every trail, overlook, and wilderness area (except buildings).
What to know: This park also features a BARK Ranger program and encourages responsible pet exploration. Don’t miss Blue Mesa Trail or Giant Logs Trail.
White Sands National Park (New Mexico)
Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the dunes and designated trails at White Sands.
Dog policy: White Sands National Park is notably pet-friendly, welcoming leashed dogs throughout most of the park, including trails, picnic areas, and the open dunes.
Where dogs are allowed:
- All five hiking trails:
- Alkali Flat Trail
- Dune Life Nature Trail
- Playa Trail
- Interdune Boardwalk
- Backcountry Camping Trail
- All open sand dune areas
- Picnic areas
- Roadside pullouts along Dunes Drive
Where dogs are not allowed: Inside the visitor center and gift shop (service animals excluded).
What to know: Be prepared for extreme sun and heat — the white gypsum sand reflects sunlight intensely. Always bring water for you and your pup, and aim for early morning or evening visits. All pets must be leashed at all times (six-foot maximum) and owners are responsible for cleaning up after them.
BARK Ranger Program
National parks are exciting places for pets to visit, but they can also be overstimulating. That’s where the BARK Ranger program comes in — helping you and your pup stay safe, respectful, and happy on your visit.
- Bag your pet’s waste
- Always leash your pet
- Respect wildlife
- Know where you can go
BARK Ranger events and pledges vary by park. Some have guided walks, others provide badge pins or stickers, and many work on the honor system. Either way, it’s a fun and educational way to include your dog in the National Park experience.
Final Woof
Not all National Parks are dog-friendly — but for the ones that are, they can be a magical place to explore together. With a little planning, your next vacation can include stunning views, fresh air, and a wagging tail.
Did we miss your favorite dog-friendly park? Let us know on Instagram @loveourparks!
