Top 11 U.S. National Parks That Welcome Pets

Not every national park allows pets — here are 11 that do, so you don’t have to leave Fido at home.

Fact checked by

Jillian Dara

Every year, thousands of visitors eagerly crowd into America’s parks hoping to hike with their furry friends, only to face a myriad of restrictions. While a stroll through the woods on a dirt trail might appear intuitive, many U.S. national parks impose strict rules regarding pet access, typically to safeguard wildlife, delicate landscapes, and fellow visitors.

However, there are a few exceptions. We’ve compiled a list of 11 pet-friendly parks where you and Fido can both enjoy the rejuvenation nature provides. Just remember: keep your dog on a six-foot (or shorter) leash, never leave them unattended in a vehicle, and always clean up after them.

1. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia restricts pets near its lakes and natural water sources, as well as on rung and ladder trails along cliffs. Nevertheless, there are still 100 miles of hiking paths and 45 miles of crushed-stone carriage roads where Fido can roam freely. We suggest exploring the historic roadways that wander near Jordan Pond House or hiking up the backside of Champlain Mountain.

2. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado

Want to roll down massive dunes with your beloved pet? Great Sand Dunes allows dogs to hike to the peak of the highest dune on the first ridge of the park, followed by a refreshing dip in Medano Creek. Additionally, they’re welcome on several mountainous trails like the path to Mosca Pass, alongside many picnic areas and campgrounds.

3. Yosemite National Park, California

While pets cannot explore most of the stunning trails in this historic park, they are allowed in most campgrounds, on sidewalks, and along scenic pullouts.

4. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Although dogs are not permitted to wander into the deep canyons, they are welcome on all other trails along the South Rim. This allows you to embark on a 13-mile journey along the iconic Rim Trail, which showcases many of the park’s breathtaking views. Additionally, the park features a boarding kennel and allows dogs in most campgrounds and specific rooms of the Yavapai Lodge.

5. New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia

Animal companions are permitted on all trails within America’s newest national park, offering you a plethora of options. You can hike along a sandstone ridge for a view of the New River Gorge Bridge or stroll beneath a tree-lined canopy to discover the remnants of an abandoned mining town. Additionally, pets are allowed at the rock-climbing crag with an extra friend to keep an eye on them.

6. White Sands National Park, New Mexico

Unlike most national parks, White Sands allows dogs to roam freely (on a leash) across its breathtaking gypsum sand dunes, on or off the trails. Enjoy the vibrant hues of sunset while admiring the towering Organ Mountains in the distance with your furry friend — they’re also permitted at backcountry sites.

7. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Although the park is well-known for its winding Skyline Drive, a 105-mile paved road that winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah is also one of the most pet-friendly parks in the country. Pets are allowed on nearly 500 miles of trails, including part of the famous Appalachian Trail.

8. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

In this Arizona park that inspired naturalist John Muir, visitors can explore the Painted Desert and ancient fossilized trees with their furry friends. Pets are welcome on leashes along paved roads or trails, as well as in all official wilderness areas. Prepare for a fantastic hike amidst the striped red hills.

9. Congaree National Park, South Carolina

Congaree serves as an oasis for canine companions who wish to traverse the nation’s largest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest. The park boasts champion trees— the largest of their species known to man— and has a rich history as a hideout for bootleggers and runaway slaves. Stroll along the park’s 2.4-mile Boardwalk Loop trail, where majestic bald cypress trees rise dramatically from the waters – just stay vigilant for alligators.

10. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Dogs (and technically cats) are welcome on over 100 miles of scenic trails in this Ohio park, recognized as one of the top 10 most-visited national parks in the country in 2021. Enjoy breathtaking hikes to Brandywine Falls, the shaded rock formations of the Ledges Trail, and the expansive 20 miles of the multi-use Towpath Trail that weave through the park.

11. Death Valley National Park, California

Like many national parks, Death Valley does not permit pets on its trails. Nevertheless, we included it on our list due to the numerous rugged dirt roads with spectacular views that you can walk with your pets. The park advises leashing your dog and taking a stroll along Devil’s Golf Course Road, 20 Mule Team Canyon, and Mustard Canyon Drive to absorb the park’s stunning arid mountains and unique geological formations. Pooches are also welcome in park campgrounds.