Discover Nature Together
Pet-friendly national parks are among the most amazing places to explore for pet owners who love the great outdoors that is simply full of amazing landscapes and nature. However, not all national parks welcome pets, and knowing where your furry friend will be welcome is essential for a stress-free adventure. This guide calls out National Parks That Allow Pets where pets are welcome and tips for enjoying your visit in 2025.
Why You Should Visit Pet-Friendly National Parks
Traveling pet-friendly national parks with your pet provides unique advantages for both you and your furry friend. It allows you to:
- Lasting Togetherness: Going hiking, camping, or just spending some time with beautiful views makes your bond stronger.
- Be Active: You can walk, run, or swim with your pet.
- Explore the Wild: Go up the side of the mountain, be in the woods, and experience the environment with your loyal companion.
Many pet-friendly national parks offer designated trails, campsites, and even educational programs that allow pets, making your adventures fun for the whole family.
The Best National Parks for Pets, 2025
Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia is one of the most pet-pawtastic pet-friendly national parks in the U.S., allowing pets on most of its 100 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads. Trails are pet-friendly, for leashed animals, as are trails like the Jordan Pond Path and Cadillac Mountain, where sunrise views are glorious. There are also pet-friendly camping options at Blackwoods and Seawall Campgrounds, making for a comfortable stay.
Shenandoah National Park, Va.
Perched along the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah is a pet owners’ paradise. More than 480 miles of trails, including sections of the Appalachian Trail, are open to leashed pets. Other highlights include the Stony Man Trail and Dark Hollow Falls Trail. The park’s lodges and campgrounds that cater to pets — such as Big Meadows Lodge — make it effortless to arrange an overnight visit.
Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado
Great Sand Dunes National Park boasts a unique landscape of towering sand dunes, alpine lakes, and grasslands. Pets are allowed on the Medano Pass Primitive Road, Piñon Flats Campground, and even the primary dune field — as long as they are leashed. Pet-friendly national parks like this let you explore this surreal environment together.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Praised for its out-of-the-ordinary pet-friendly adventures, Cuyahoga Valley is a hidden gem. The park has more than 125 miles of trails — including Towpath Trail and Brandywine Falls Trail — on which leashed pets are permitted. Cuyahoga also has pet-friendly picnicking and scenic train rides for well-behaved pets.
White Sands National Park, N.M.
Famous for its dazzling white gypsum dunes, White Sands National Park is a spectacular park that allows pets in nearly every area. Dogs are allowed on the dunes and trails and on the Interdune Boardwalk, where you can take in spectacular desert views. This landscape offers endless opportunities for exploration and photography with your pet, making it a standout among pet-friendly national parks.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Pets are allowed in Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim, where you’ll find both pet-friendly paved trails as well as the famed Rim Trail. Mather Campground and some lodging also allow pets. Pets are not allowed below the rim or on the shuttle buses, but the park’s vast views and accessible trails make it a wonderful place for those traveling with pets.
Olympic National Park, Wash.
From rugged coastlines to lush rainforests, Olympic National Park offers pet owners access to an array of diverse ecosystems. Pets on leash are allowed on trails such as Kalaloch Beach and the Spruce Railroad Trail. The park’s pet-friendly campgrounds and breathtaking sights create a memorable experience for nature lovers visiting pet-friendly national parks.
Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
This lesser-known park is particularly pet-friendly, permitting them on all park trails and even in the backcountry. Trails such as Blue Mesa and Crystal Forest create vivid surreal vistas of ancient petrified wood and colorful badlands. The park’s pet-friendly policies allow you to discover its unusual geology with few restrictions.
Preparing for Your Visit
Bringing your pet with you when visiting pet-friendly national parks requires careful preparation to make sure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time. Do some research about the specific pet rules at your park of choice, as the rules tend to vary, with differing regulations regarding trails, campgrounds, and facilities. Most parks require pets to stay on a leash no longer than six feet.
Bring basics like food, water, travel bowls, waste bags, and a strong leash. If you’re going to be doing a hike, make sure that your pet is fit enough to handle the difficulty of the trail, and take along paw protection if your pet will be traversing rough terrain or hot surfaces. A pet-specific first-aid kit is also advised; it can include bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers for pulling out ticks.
Confirm pet-friendly lodging and camping when you stay overnight. Many pet-friendly national parks have campgrounds where you can bring your pet, but many require a reservation. Also, keep your pet’s vaccination records and ID tags current, as some parks may require proof of vaccinations.
When you visit, try to keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible to minimize stress. Maintain regular feeding and exercise routines, and allow for ample rest opportunities. If you are passing through wildlife zones, keep your pet away from any animals for the safety of the animals and your travel companion. With a little advance planning and adherence to the rules of the park, you can make great memories with your pet in the outdoors.
National Park FAQs for Pet-Friendly Parks
Are national parks pet-friendly? No, not every national park welcomes pets, and there are varying rules. Check out the park’s particular policies before your visit.
How do I prepare for a visit to a national park with my pet? Pack essentials like food, water, collapsible bowls, waste bags, a leash, and a pet first-aid kit. Add items such as paw protection for rugged terrain.
Is it okay to take my pet hiking on trails? Most pet-friendly national parks only allow pets on certain designated trails. See the park’s website or visitor center for details on trail rules.
Are there any weight restrictions for pets? Dogs are not size-restricted in most parks but may have leash length requirements. Make sure your pet can behave and handle themselves in public places.
How can I ensure my pet is safe during the visit? Make sure to leash your pet at all times, provide plenty of water and breaks, and be aware of wildlife interactions. Check temperatures to avoid overheating.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Great Outdoors with Your Dog!
Exploring National Parks That Allow Pets is a great way to get closer to nature and create memories with your four-legged friend. Acadia, White Sands, and 12 other national parks with pet-friendly trails and vistas make great destinations. Plan your next adventure today by selecting a pet-friendly national park, preparing necessary supplies, and adhering to park rules. With a little preparation, you and your pet can experience the wonders of nature side by side.