Category: Dogs

Top 10 Dog-Friendly National Parks in the U.S.
Planning a trip to a national park with your pup?
The wild is even wilder — and better — with your dog along for the ride. There’s something about sharing a sunrise over the mountains or the stillness of a forest trail with your best friend that makes nature feel even more alive.
Dogs don’t just join the adventure — they amplify it, reminding us to live in the moment, savor the smells, and celebrate every new sight with unfiltered joy.
That said, many national parks aren’t as welcoming to four-legged explorers as you might hope. That’s why it’s essential to plan ahead if you want your pup by your side on the trail.
My family and I have been full-time RVers for years. Along the way, we’ve trekked, trotted and traveled with fur-friends in tow, so we know a thing or two about animal companions.
In this guide, I’ll show you the best national parks to visit with your dog, plus my top tips for making the journey safe, fun, and unforgettable. Let’s hit the road!
What Makes a National Park Dog-Friendly?
Image source: Getty Images
Wondering what qualifies a national park as dog-friendly? The first and most important piece is that park rules allow dogs in the main park areas.

Certain popular parks, like Glacier, don’t allow dogs on trails and otherwise restrict access for fur-friends, making them less dog-friendly than others.
Here’s what dog-friendly national parks generally offer:
- Fur-friends allowed on walking paths
- Pet-friendly camping
- Scenic drives (because you can always have your dog in the car with you)
- Dog-friendly ranger programs
- Pet access to hiking trails
- Off-leash areas
- Pet boarding options
Top 10 Dog-Friendly National Parks in the U.S.
We compiled this list based on a combination of research and our own travels. We chose these parks based on things like dog-friendly hiking trails, BARK ranger programs and user reviews.
1. Acadia National Park, Maine
Image source: Getty Images
Easily one of the most dog-friendly national parks in the country, Acadia National Park is a favorite park of mine. It’s especially amazing because dogs are allowed on over 100 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads throughout the park.
There are also plenty of dog-friendly campgrounds in the park, so finding a place to stay isn’t a problem!
2. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Another great spot to take your pet is Shenandoah National Park. This dog-friendly national park is home to 500 miles of trails, and most of them allow pets.
Our family loved this park because there were so many easy day hikes and overlooks—something your pup is sure to appreciate as well.
3. Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim), Arizona
Image source: Getty Images
While dogs are not allowed everywhere in Grand Canyon National Park, they are welcome on the paved trails on the south rim, meaning you can see a good chunk of the park with your pup.
If you want to wander beyond these paved trails, you can always drop Fido (or Freya) off at the in-park pet hotel.
4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee & North Carolina
Image source: Getty Images
The Great Smoky Mountains are absolutely stunning, especially when the fog settles over them. Luckily, you can share this beauty with your dog because pups are allowed within park campgrounds and at picnic areas.
You can also take pets hiking with you on the Oconaluftee and Gatlinburg trails.
5. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
Image source: Getty Images
While dogs are not allowed in undeveloped areas of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, many other areas within the park allow dogs. Most parking areas are open to pups, as well as Nāmakanipaio Campground.
Unfortunately, there aren’t a lot of hiking opportunities for dogs in the park. Still, the park is gorgeous, unique, and well worth exploring with your furry friend.
6. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Image source: Getty Images
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of the few parks that allows dogs to accompany their owners on nearly every trail. This is amazing because it means you can explore without many restrictions as long as you have a leash.
Towpath Trail is a favorite of ours, so make sure to check it out!
7. Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts
Image source: Getty Images
Okay, so this one isn’t technically a national park, but it’s a park managed by the National Park Service, so I think it’s close enough.
I love this one for dogs because leashed pets are allowed on many of the beaches during the off-season. This is a nice treat considering how much most dogs love the water.
8. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Image source: Getty Images
Unlike most national parks, this park allows dogs throughout the grounds, as long as they are leashed.
You can also get a Bark Ranger badge here, so make sure to do that!
9. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
Image source: Unsplash
Another park perfect for dog lovers, White Sands National Park allows pups to explore all trails and sand dunes within the park. This is incredible because it means your dog can wander wherever you go. Some people even take their dogs sledding here!
Be sure to protect your dog’s paws from hot sand by choosing a cooler time of year and/or putting booties on their feet.
10. North Cascades National Park, Washington
Image source: Getty Images
Lastly, I must mention North Cascades National Park. This park stands out in my memory because of the stunning contrast between the bright blue water and the lush greenery. Fortunately, you can share this beauty with your dog by taking them on the Pacific Crest Trail.
As a bonus, the national forests surrounding the park feature more dog-friendly hiking trails.
Tips for Visiting National Parks With Your Dog
Image source: Getty Images
Once you’ve found the perfect dog-friendly national park, it’s time to start planning. For the most part, planning an RV trip with a dog is just like planning any other RV trip. That said, there are a few extra things you’ll want to do.
Keep Your Pup Hydrated
We all know how important it is for us humans to stay well hydrated while wandering the trails. Don’t forget that your dog needs to stay hydrated too! Carry a collapsible bowl and a sufficient amount of water specifically for your pup, so you can hike together safely.
Clean Up After Your Dog
If you’ve ever visited a national park before, you’ve almost certainly heard of the “leave no trace” policy, which requires that visitors clean up after themselves and leave nature alone. This same set of rules applies to dogs. Make sure you clean up after your dog so the trail is clean and ready for the next set of hikers.
Avoid Heat
Some national parks experience extremely high temperatures during specific times of day and certain seasons of the year. If you’re visiting a park with especially warm weather, it’s best to avoid visiting in the middle of summer.
If that’s unavoidable, making a point of staying indoors during the hottest parts of the day is the way to go. This will ensure your pup doesn’t overheat and that their paws aren’t burned by hot pavement or sand.
Watch for Advisories
National parks will put out advisories about weather-related events and wildlife sightings. Pay attention to these factors and try to avoid areas with potentially aggressive wildlife, as well as locations that may be hazardous due to weather, flooding, or fire. This will ensure that you, your dog, and the wild animals remain safe.
Use a Pet GPS
In most cases, your dog will likely be leashed while exploring the national parks—but what if they are too quick and hop out when you open the car door, or they manage to wiggle out of their collar?
Because these things happen and because national parks are enormous, it’s a good idea to use a pet GPS or an AirTag (or equivalent tracking gizmo) to ensure you can find your pup wherever they may roam.
Invest in Roadside Assistance
Keep you and your pup safe while traveling to and from national parks with a good RV roadside assistance plan. We love our RV roadside assistance because it allows us peace of mind while traveling. We appreciate knowing that a helping hand is never too far away, even when we travel to remote areas.
National Parks With the Most Dog Restrictions
Image source: Getty Images
I talked about the national parks that are the most welcoming to dogs, but what about national parks with the most dog restrictions? Below, I’ve listed some of the parks that seem to be the least dog-friendly. While I absolutely adore every single park on the list below, I wouldn’t recommend visiting them with Fido (or Freya):
- Yellowstone — Pets are not allowed on boardwalks, hiking trails, in the backcountry, or in thermal areas.
- Yosemite — Pets are not allowed on unpaved trails, in wilderness areas, or inside public buildings.
- Zion — Pets are not permitted on most trails, in wilderness areas, on shuttle buses, or in public buildings.
- Arches — Pets are not allowed on any hiking trails, at any overlooks, or in the visitor center or any buildings.
- Glacier — Pets are not allowed on trails, in the backcountry, or in any building.
Alternative Dog-Friendly Public Lands
Image source: Getty Images
Can’t find a dog-friendly national park that you want to visit? There are other options!
National Forests vs. National Parks
First, look into national forests. While the National Park Service manages national parks, national forests are managed by the U.S. Forest Service, resulting in distinct sets of rules.
Dogs are allowed in most national forests. They must be leashed in developed recreation areas and on interpretive trails, but can usually be off-leash in other areas. Always double-check with the local forest service for specific dog rules.
As a bonus, many national parks are right next to national forests. This means that even if you choose to visit a national park that is not so dog-friendly, there might be a forest nearby where your pup can get out and run around!
BLM Lands and State Parks
Other options for exploring the great outdoors with dogs include state parks and areas managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
Depending on the state, many state parks permit leashed pets on all trails; however, rules vary from park to park.
Dogs are permitted on most Bureau of Land Management (BLM) trails. Please note that leash policies vary from one BLM trail to the next, so you’ll need to check each individually.
Use Filtering Tools
If you’re still unsure where to take your dog on an RV adventure, consider using some tools. Apps like Bring Fido and AllTrails are excellent for finding dog-friendly spots nationwide. I find that the filtering tools these apps offer make searching for the perfect place a cinch!
FAQs: Dog-Friendly National Parks
Image source: Getty Images
Have even more questions about dog-friendly national parks? We’re here to help with answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:
Can you bring dogs to national parks in the U.S.?
Yes! That said, many national parks have strict rules. Do your research to gain a thorough understanding of what your pup will be allowed to do once you arrive.
What national park is the most dog-friendly?
This is a challenging question to answer, as different people will likely have varying opinions. That being said, Acadia National Park is often regarded as the most dog-friendly national park. This is because the park offers over 100 miles of pet-accessible trails.
Are there any national parks where dogs can be off-leash?
Most national parks require dogs to be on a six-foot leash. This is for the safety of you, your pet, other visitors, and the local wildlife. If your pet needs some off-leash time, I recommend heading to the surrounding national forests or BLM lands.
Which national parks don’t allow dogs?
All national parks permit dogs to some extent. That said, many have restrictions that make enjoying the park with your pup a challenge. As mentioned above, some of the least dog-friendly national parks include Zion, Yosemite, and Yellowstone, where dogs are not allowed to hike at all.
Are service dogs allowed in all national parks?
Service animals protected under the ADA are permitted in all areas of national parks, including those closed to pets. That said, we only recommend taking your animal to these areas if necessary, as no-pet rules are usually in place for safety reasons.
Closing thoughts
There you have it, the 10 most dog-friendly national parks in the U.S.. Whether you’re climbing the glistening white dunes of White Sands or enjoying the incredible ocean views at Acadia, you’re sure to love taking it all in with your pup. Make sure you pack everything you need, and always explore responsibly!

The post Top 10 Dog-Friendly National Parks in the U.S. appeared first on RV.com.
2025-05-06
The Road Trips Your Dog is Going to Love
When you close your eyes and imagine yourself on the open road, who is in the passenger seat? Who is your ideal companion? Is it someone who’s just along for the ride, loves the journey as much as the destination, and doesn’t dare criticize your carefully curated playlist even after the third time through? Are you envisioning your dog, tongue and fur to the wind? Even if they’re not your only road trip companion, they’re likely your best, so it’s important to factor in their few needs (and demands) when planning your next trip. Our friends at Ollie have a few recommendations for bringing your pup along for the ride, and their freshly cooked meals make for the perfect fuel for any adventure.
So, what makes a road trip or destination dog-friendly? The simple answer is preparation — packing wisely and researching ahead of time to ensure a backcountry site is safe or that viral motel can accommodate your pup. There’s plenty of room in the plan for spontaneity without risking your dog’s comfort and safety. Choosing destinations and waypoints that match your experience and comfort levels is also a must. Are you willing to carry out waste or carry in potable water? Are you prepared to hoof it a few miles to a medical aide site? If it’s your first time traveling with your pup, or you have yet to earn your orienteering badge, consider easing in with one of these dog-approved road trips.
East Coast
Green Mountains to Block Island
Photo Credit: Rfael Rodrigues via Unsplash
New England is ripe for a road trip with its countless dog-friendly beaches and green mountain trails. The sights and smells of the far northeast are unmistakable and marked by a mix of nostalgia and novelty that comes with having four distinct seasons.
Stop 1: St. Johnsbury, Vermont

If there’s anything the region loves as much as its lighthouses and breweries, it’s dogs. Summit Vermont’s aptly named Dog Mountain, you’ll see how one man’s profound love for his pups has transformed into a mountaintop oasis for dog lovers and art enthusiasts alike. The living shrine, Dog Chapel, is a tribute to pups passed and an active space for various community events. Leashes are optional atop Dog Mountain and many of its neighboring trails.
Stop 2: White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire

Heading south to New Hampshire, you and your pup will be treated to a low-key, high-elevation adventure — at least the highest you’ll find in the East. We like to think the state’s motto, “live free or die,” was penned by an off-leash dog who understood the thrill of tackling multiple presidential peaks in a day or scaling Mount Washington’s 6,288 feet by foot, car, or railway. Even if the phrase is more an artifact of the region’s role in the Revolutionary War than a dogism, there is an undeniable feeling of freedom and fortitude in the White Mountains that might just bring out your inner dog.
Stop 3: Block Island, Rhode Island

Heading down to sea level, you’ll find the quintessential views of New England seen on postcards and calendars. You might want to temporarily ditch your vehicle in the name of what has been described as a “dog’s dream.” Rhode Island’s Block Island is a coastal haven with a myriad of public beaches open to dogs and their humans year-round. If you’re feeling social after long hours behind the wheel, Ballard’s Beach is a lively place to stretch your legs, grab a drink, and mingle with other beachgoers. Vaill Beach might be more your speed if you and your pup seek solitude. The more secluded location means fewer amenities (and people!), but it’s never short on stunning sunset views, beachcombing, and rugged adventure.
West Coast
Lake Tahoe to Big Sur
Photo Credit: Vladimir Kudinov via Unsplash
To say the trip from Tahoe to Big Sur is iconic suggests every photograph, work of art, or piece of literature has done it justice. Trust us when we say the feeling of driving down the Pacific Coast Highway can not be captured by film or pen, though you can’t blame anyone for trying.
Stop 1: Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada

While South Lake Tahoe is known for being more bustling and buzzing than its northern counterpart, the amenities that come with tourism tend to benefit our canine companions. Bijou Community Park sits lakeside, offering a wide-open space for you and your dog to roam. It is also a dedicated, fenced-in dog park for pups prone to wandering. For a long, steady hike with rewarding views of the whole lake, the Mt. Tallac climb could be in the stars. Be sure to pack plenty of water, food, treats, and poop bags, and be prepared to enter the ominously named Desolation Wilderness, which requires registration at the trailhead. If you’re not up for an all-day adventure, Van Sickle Bi-State Park boasts some pretty epic views of the area without the trek. Plus, this conservation area traverses California and Nevada state lines if you want to check multiple destinations off your list.
Stop 2: Yosemite National Park, California

National Parks aren’t inherently dog-friendly. Even if they permit pets on park grounds, that doesn’t guarantee the experience will be ideal for four-legged hikers. Yosemite National Park, however, sticks out in the pack with its four-day dog-friendly itinerary that includes pet-safe hotels, hikes, and more in the Yosemite Mariposa County area. Don’t expect just the greatest hits; this itinerary includes hidden gems like Olmsted Point and other pup-approved trails and viewing points.
Stop 3: Fort Funston, California

If you’d rather hit the coast immediately after taking on Tahoe, Fort Funston offers a sandy retreat just outside San Francisco. Part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area,the fort has trails for every level and plenty of beachfront spots for when you and your pup want to take a load off and soak up some sun. Dogs are welcome off and on leash in most park areas; just watch for horses clopping down the mixed-use Bay Area Ridge Trail.
Stop 4: Carmel, California

Highway 1 runs along most of California’s coastline, though you’ll swear the state highway teleported you to a Mediterranean village when you enter Carmel-by-the-Sea in Monterey County. The town’s eclectic architecture is a testament to the area’s Spanish settlement, as it is nearly entirely walkable or bikeable roadways. Carmel Beach is just a stone’s throw away and offers a mile-long meander along the ocean, bordered by bush lupine, wild lilac, and other coastal plantlife bursting with color and life. Once you and your pup have gotten enough sand between your toes, the nearby Terry’s Lounge hosts a “Yappy Hour” beginning at 4:30 pm for dogs and cats of all sizes. Pop by for a cocktail and wash up before dinner at the bar’s pet wash area.
Stop 5: Big Sur, California

Leaving Carmel, you’ll lose cell service, but if there’s one place to go off the grid, it’s Big Sur. When the Santa Lucia Mountains rise out of thin air to meet you and block your signal, you’ll have no choice but to get lost in the drama of the rugged landscape. We do recommend downloading a map ahead of time, so you don’t actually get lost. Just driving down the guardrail-less section of Highway 1 is an adventure all its own, but Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is the perfect place to reground yourself after the long, winding descent. The park has both day-use and overnight camping areas available. The campsites are relatively spread out, allowing you and your pup a little space and shade among the stately redwood trees. We recommend making Pfeiffer Beach your final destination if you’re feeling beached out. The purple sands and gnarled cliffs make this secluded spot unlike any other in this itinerary, and the famed Keyhole Rock is one of the most photographed natural landmarks in the area.
Photo Credit: Ollie
Let Ollie take the wheel when it comes to your dog’s nutrition. Their carefully crafted meals put your pup’s health and happiness first, using high-quality ingredients like premium proteins and superfoods to help dogs of all ages thrive.
The post The Road Trips Your Dog is Going to Love appeared first on RV.com.
2025-01-17