Most Dog-Friendly National Parks in the USA

The United States is home to some of the most beautiful national parks in the world, and for dog owners, the joy of exploring these natural wonders with their four-legged companions is unparalleled. However, not all national parks are equally dog-friendly. You know I love exploring the USA with Thor in tow (my 11-year old Shepherd), so I’m excited to share this list of the most dog-friendly National Parks in the USA

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Most Dog-friendly National Parks in the United States

I’m so excited to share this list of most welcoming national parks for dogs, detailing their locations, dog-friendly accommodation options nearby, and the best activities to enjoy with your furry friend. Trust me, your pup will thank you 🙂

1. Acadia National Park, Maine

• Location: Maine
• Dog-Friendly Stay: Bar Harbor Inn
• Activities:
  • Hiking on Carriage Roads and other dog-friendly trails
  • Exploring the Schoodic Peninsula
  • Relaxing at Dog-Friendly Beaches
  • Watch the sunrise at Cadillac Summit

Acadia National Park is one of the most dog-friendly national parks in the USA. It offers over 100 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads where dogs are allowed.

The scenic beauty of this park, with its rugged coastline and forested mountains, makes it a perfect playground for adventurous dogs and their owners.

2. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

• Location: Virginia
• Dog-Friendly Stay: Graves Mountain Farm & Lodges
• Activities:
  • Walking the Appalachian Trail
  • Enjoying Panoramic Views from Skyline Drive
  • Exploring Numerous Waterfalls

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park is a haven for dog lovers. Most of the trails, including a portion of the famous Appalachian Trail, are open to dogs. There’s only 11 trails (out of over 500 miles) that do not allow pups.

The park’s Skyline Drive offers stunning views, and there are plenty of picnic areas where you and your dog can relax together.

3. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

• Location: Arizona
• Dog-Friendly Stay: Yavapi Lodge
• Activities:
  • Walking the South Rim Trail
  • Enjoying Canyon Views at Mather Point (Plan a stop here around sunset for amazing views!)
  • Learn about history along the Trail of Time

The Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is surprisingly very dog-friendly. Dogs are allowed on the South Rim Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the canyon.

While pets are not allowed below the rim, there are ample opportunities for enjoying the vistas together. However, if you do want to explore the trails below the rim, there’s an on-site boarding facility right at the National Park!

4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

• Location: Ohio
• Dog-Friendly Stay: Sheraton Suites
• Activities:
  • Hiking the Towpath Trail
  • Exploring Brandywine Falls
  • Visit the Everett Covered Bridge (and splash in the creek below it)

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a hidden gem for dog owners just 30 minutes south of Cleveland. With over 125 miles of hiking trails, and 100+ miles of which are dog-friendly, it’s a great place to explore the great outdoors with your pet.

The park’s diverse landscapes, including lush forests and rolling hills, make it a picturesque destination.

5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

• Location: Tennessee/North Carolina
• Dog-Friendly Stay: Hilton Garden Inn (Gatlinburg)
• Activities:
  • Strolling the Gatlinburg Trail
  • Walking the Oconaluftee River Trail
  • Have a picnic (all the picnic areas are dog-friendly)
  • Cade’s Cove Scenic Drive

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not as dog-friendly as others on the list, but there are a couple of dog-friendly things to do in the park (and plenty nearby) .

While the options are limited, the available trails, like the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail, offer scenic walks through forests and alongside rivers. It would also be worth it to drive the famous Cade’s Cove Loop in search on wildlife! Just make sure your pup is well behaved and won’t disturb the wildlife from the car.

After checking out those two hikes, I highly recommend taking a short road trip to the Nantahala Forest, Helen (3.5 hours) or Chattanooga (2.5 hours) where you will find many dog-friendly options!

6. White Sands National Park, New Mexico

• Location: New Mexico
• Dog-Friendly Stay: Home2Suites
• Activities:
  • Exploring the Dune Field
  • Sunset Walks on the Interdune Boardwalk
  • Photography and Sand Play

White Sands National Park is my absolute favorite dog-friendly National Park in the United States. It is unique for its vast field of white gypsum sand dunes.

It’s a fantastic place for dogs, as they are allowed throughout the park, including on the trails and in the dune field. The experience of walking these stark, beautiful dunes with your dog is truly unforgettable, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light plays magically on the sands.

We visited during this amazing dog-friendly New Mexico road trip AND again on our way home from Tucson. I don’t return to many places twice, so you can tell I’m obsessed!

7. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

• Location: Colorado
• Dog-Friendly Stay: The Gratitude Homestay
• Activities:
  • Hiking on the Dunes
  • Playing in Medano Creek (seasonal)
  • Exploring the Diverse Trails around the Park

Another fan-favorite (Thor is the fan) on this list, Great Sand Dunes National Park offers a spectacular landscape of sand dunes, forests, and mountains.

Dogs are welcome throughout the park, including on the dunes and most trails. The experience of climbing the tallest dunes with your dog is exhilarating, and playing in the shallow waters of Medano Creek (when it flows in spring and early summer) is a refreshing activity for both dogs and their owners.

Similarly to White Sands, this national park allows for the freedom to spread out and enjoy space to run. It’s one of my favorite pup-friendly Colorado spots (and there’s a lot of them!!!)

8. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

• Location: Arkansas
• Dog-Friendly Stay: Embassy Suites Hot Springs
• Activities:
  • Walking the Historic Promenade
  • Hiking on Dog-Friendly Trails like Sunset Trail
  • Exploring the Scenic Drive

Hot Springs National Park, renowned for its thermal springs, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historic charm. It’s very different from what you are used to in a National Park.

While dogs are not allowed in the buildings or bathhouses, there are several trails and outdoor areas where pets are welcome (on all 26 miles of trails!) The Historic Promenade provides a picturesque walk alongside the famous bathhouses, and the Sunset Trail offers a more natural setting for a hike with your dog.

Your furry best friend is also welcome to join you inside the Superior Bathhouse for some dinner and a freshly spring-water brewed beer. This park is perfect for those who enjoy combining outdoor activities with a bit of history and culture.

Then, after exploring the national park, I HIGHLY recommend exploring more of the nearby Ouachita National Forest!

9. Saguaro National Park

• Location: Arizona
• Dog-Friendly Stay: Hacienda Del Sol Ranch
• Activities:
  • Exploring the Desert on Bajada Loop Drive
  • Hike along the Desert Ecology trail
  • Picnic at the Mica View Picnic Area.

Saguaro National Park, famous for its towering saguaro cacti, offers a unique desert experience for dog owners.

While dogs are not permitted on the hiking trails, they are allowed on roads, picnic areas, and campgrounds. The Bajada Loop Drive is a scenic route where you can enjoy the stunning desert landscape with your dog from the comfort of your car.

The park has several overlooks and accessible areas where you can stop, take a break, and enjoy the views with your furry friend.

However, if you are hoping to hike more, I suggest heading to Sweetwater Preserve (pictured above) or Catalina State Park. I promise both of these will lead to equally amazing views (I’m a big believer that state parks can be just as epic as national parks!)

10. Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri

• Location: Missouri
• Dog-Friendly Stay: Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch
• Activities:
  • Walking Around the Gateway Arch Grounds
  • Exploring the St. Louis Riverfront
  • Visiting the Old Courthouse (from the outside of course)

Gateway Arch National Park, known for the iconic Gateway Arch, offers more than just a stunning architectural feat. Dogs are welcome on the park grounds, making it a unique urban park experience in St. Louis.

You and your dog can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beautifully landscaped paths with views of the Mississippi River and the downtown skyline. Then, be sure to check out more dog-friendly things to do in St. Louis!

11. New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia

• Location: West Virginia
• Dog-Friendly Stay: Quality Inn New River Gorge
• Activities:
  • Hiking on the Long Point Trail
  • Exploring the Banks of the New River
  • Enjoying the Views from Canyon View Overlook

New River Gorge National Park, America’s newest national park, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and their dogs. The park offers numerous trails where dogs on leashes are welcome.

The scenic beauty of the gorges, rivers, and forests provides a perfect backdrop for adventure-filled hikes. The Long Point Trail in particular, is a favorite among dog owners for its breathtaking views.

12. Yosemite National Park, California

• Location: California
• Dog-Friendly Stay: Tenaya at Yosemite
• Activities:
  • Walking the Wawona Meadow Loop
  • Exploring Bridalveil Fall
  • Enjoying the Views from Tunnel View

Yosemite National Park is known for its awe-inspiring cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias. While its not the most dog-friendly National Park on the list, the views make it worth a stop.

Dogs are not allowed on most trails, however there are still plenty of areas where you can enjoy a walk with your furry friend, including the Wawona Meadow Loop and various paved paths.

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More Tips for Visiting National Parks with Dogs

• Check Park Regulations: Before heading out, verify the park’s pet policies. Some parks have restrictions on where pets can go, so it’s important to know these rules in advance.
• Keep Your Dog on a Leash: Most national parks require dogs to be on a leash, typically no longer than 6 feet. This rule helps protect wildlife, other visitors, and your pet.
• Plan for the Weather: Be aware of the weather conditions and prepare accordingly. In hot weather, bring extra water for your dog and avoid walking on hot surfaces that could burn their paws.
• Stay on Designated Trails: To protect the natural habitat and for your dog’s safety, stick to trails where dogs are permitted.
• Bring Waste Bags: Always clean up after your dog. Carry waste bags with you and dispose of them properly.
• Bring Enough Water and a Bowl: Dogs can get dehydrated quickly, especially on warm days or during strenuous hikes. Always bring sufficient water and a collapsible bowl. Be careful with letting your dog(s) drink from creeks as these can carry dangerous bacteria.
• Watch Out for Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from wildlife and never allow your dog to chase or disturb animals.
• Be Mindful of Your Dog’s Limits: Not all dogs are suited for long hikes or rough terrain. Be aware of your dog’s physical capabilities and don’t push them beyond their limits.
• Update Identification Tags and Microchips: Ensure your dog’s identification tags are up-to-date and consider a microchip in case you get separated.
• Pack a First Aid Kit: Include items for both you and your pet, such as bandages, tick removal tools, and any medications your dog may need.
• Take Breaks and Monitor Your Dog: Regular breaks help prevent exhaustion. Watch for signs of fatigue, overheating, or distress.
• Respect Other Visitors: Not everyone is comfortable around dogs, and some visitors may have allergies. Keep your dog under control and respect others’ space.
• Acclimate Your Dog: If your dog isn’t used to long hikes or outdoor activities, start with shorter trips to get them used to the experience.
• Research Dog-Friendly Accommodations: Some parks have specific camping or lodging areas where dogs are allowed. Make sure to book these in advance.
• Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. This includes respecting wildlife, leaving what you find, and being considerate of other visitors.

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Dog-friendly National Parks Map

Who said national parks weren’t dog-friendly? With a bit of research and planning, you can surely have an amazing national park vacation with your furry best friend! Here’s a map of the most dog-friendly National Parks in the USA to make your planning a bit easier!