South Dakota's Top Pet Friendly Attraction: Custer State Park | GoPetFriendly.com

State parks that allow pets are wonderful places to explore with your pup! Enjoy nature, take a walk or hike, go boating or biking, pack a picnic, or just kicking back for a relaxing afternoon with your best friend.

Pet Friendly US State Parks from GoPetFriendly.com
 

Some state parks have even gone the extra mile to provide pet friendly cabin rentals, off-leash play areas, and dog friendly beaches where your pooch can splash!

But how do you know where to go? We’ve done all the sniffing for you! Below are the pet policies and amenities for state parks all 50 states. All that’s left is to pack the car, buckle up your furry travel companion, and hit the road!

Elderly dog looking out a car window

Alabama State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on a leash up to six feet long are welcome in Alabama state parks. You must provide proof of vaccination. And pets cannot go on beaches or to swimming pools. Any dog that behaves in an intimidating, destructive, dangerous, or noisy manner must leave the park.

In addition, pets are welcome in all Alabama state park campgrounds, and the parks listed below also have dog friendly cabins. For cabin rentals, a pet fee of $30 per dog per night applies. And campers leaving dogs unattended at any time must confine them to a carrier or crate.

Alabama State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

Alaska State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets are welcome in Alaska state parks and campgrounds if leashed and accompanied by the owner at all times. Dogs can go unleashed in the backcountry, but must be within voice command.

Note that traveling to Kodiak Island State Park requires a ferry ride and pets must stay on the car deck. Owners only have access to the car deck while in port, or for 15 minutes every 8 hours.

Brindle colored dog with a red color and harness sitting in a field with a lake in the background
 

Arizona State Parks – Pet Policy

Leashed pets are welcome in most Arizona state parks and campgrounds and select camping cabins. But you may not take them on cabana sites, on developed beaches, or in other areas posted as environmentally or ecologically sensitive.

Pets cannot go to Red Rock State Park or on the trails at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park.

Alabama State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

Arkansas State Parks – Pet Policy

Dogs are welcome in Arkansas state parks and campgrounds if leashed at all times. In addition, the Arkansas state park system offers a few pet friendly rental cabins in parks that have cabins (listed below).

The lodge at Ozark Folk Center State Park also has a designated pet friendly lodge rooms. Reserve your room by calling the parks directly.

Arkansas State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

READ MORE ⇒  Keep Your Pup Safe with a DIY Doggy Zip Line

Ty the Shar-pei and Buster the German Shepherd from GoPetFriendly.com relaxing in a campsite on their dog zip line
 

California State Parks – Pet Policy

Dogs on a leash (our go-to leash from Amazon) up to six feet long are welcome in many California state parks and campgrounds. Vicious or unusually noisy dogs cannot visit or stay in any park. Several parks restrict where dogs can go. You can see a full list of restrictions in a chart on the dog policy page.

The pet policies at California state beaches vary by park district:

  • Angeles District  818-880-0363 
    Leashed dogs permitted at Point Mugu State Park (Mugu Beach, Thornhill-Broome Beach, Sycamore Cove). At Leo Carrillo State Park beach, you may only take your leashed dogs north of Lifeguard Tower 3.  
  • Channel Coast District  805-585-1850
    Dogs may not walk on any of the Channel Coast District State Beaches. City of Ventura has some areas (Seaside Wilderness Beach, Harbor Cove, Promenade Park, and Marina Park Beach) that allow leashed dogs.
  • Monterey District  831-649-2836
    Leashed dogs may visit Asilomar SB, southern     Garrapata beach at gate 19, Carmel River SB, and Monterey SB from the Roberts parking lot south. Dogs are NOT allowed beyond the parking lots at Zmudowski SB, Moss Landing SB, Marina SB, Salinas River SB, Seaside SB, and Point Lobos State Reserve to protect the threatened Western Snowy Plover.
  • North Coast Redwoods District  707-445-6547
    Dogs m    ay walk in designated areas at Gold Bluffs Beach only. They must be leashed.
  • Orange Coast District  949-492-0802
    Dogs     may walk on beach bike paths only. Some city beaches and unincorporated county areas allow dogs.
  • Oceano Dunes  805-473-7230
    L    eashed dogs may visit the beach.
  • Russian River 707-865-2391
    Dogs m    ay go everywhere except on coastal trails and at Goat Rock.
  • San Diego Coast District 619-688-3260
    Cardiff SB     allows leashed dogs on the beach south of tower 16. You must walk them on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
  • San Luis Obispo Coast District  805-927-2074
    Dogs     may stay at beach campsites at Montana de Oro and San Simeon State Park campgrounds but no other park beaches. They must be leashed.
  • Santa Cruz District  831-429-2850
    Leashed dogs     may enjoy Rio del Mar and Seacliff State Beach.
  • Mendocino District 707-937-5804
    D    o not take dogs onto the beach.

Colorado State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on a leash up to six feet long are welcome in thirty-eight Colorado state parks and campgrounds. You may not take pets on swim beaches or water-ski beaches at state parks. And Roxborough and Harvey Gap State Parks do not allow pets.

Barr Lake, Cheyenne Mountain, James M. Robb – Colorado River and Mueller State Parks restrict pets in some park areas or trails, but Chatfield and Cherry Creek State Parks offer dog off-leash dog parks, stretching 69 and 107 acres, respectively.

Cherry Creek State Park Off-leash Dog Area - Aurora, CO
 

Connecticut State Parks – Pet Policy

Connecticut welcomes pets on leash in most state parks and forests. But you may not take pets into state park campgrounds, swimming areas, or buildings.

Pets may not visit Dinosaur State Park at any time. Or pets may not visit Sherwood Island or Squantz Pond State Parks between April 15 and September 30.

Delaware State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on a leash up to six feet long are welcome in most Delaware state parks and campgrounds. You must provide a license and proof of a rabies vaccination for all pets. Pets are not allowed in picnic areas, bird nesting areas, park buildings, cabins, cottages or yurts, or at Fort Delaware State Park or the Killens Pond Water Park.

When camping with your pets, you may not leave them unattended (inside or outside) at any time. Please use the waste composting receptacles where available.

Pets are generally welcome on Delaware state beaches in the off-season, except for Beach Plum Beach were pets are prohibited year round. Some beaches welcome nesting birds. Look for “closed” signs where birds are nesting.

The following parks have limited, dog-friendly cabins:

Florida State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on a leash up to six feet long are welcome in all Florida state park day-use areas, except Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs State Park because of the captive wildlife. (That park provides complimentary, self-service kennels at the main entrance for visitors traveling with pets.)

Pets are also not allowed at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park, and Egmont Key State Park. You may not take pets to beaches or playgrounds, or in bathing areas, cabins, or park buildings.

Leashed pets are also welcome at Florida state park campgrounds. Up to four dogs, cats, and non-furbearing pets, such as reptiles, birds, or fish, are welcome under the physical control of the owner. Provide proof of vaccination for dogs and cats. And pets that are noisy, vicious, dangerous, disturbing, or intimidating to other persons or pets, or which damage park resources, are considered nuisances and will not be permitted to remain in the park.

Stephen Foster State Park - White Springs, FL
 

Georgia State Parks – Pet Policy

As long as your pet is on a leash no longer than six feet, you’ll find all Georgia state parks and campgrounds to be pet friendly. Pets are prohibited around some of the most historic sites, lodges, group camps, swimming areas, and some trails at Panola Mountain and Tallulah Gorge.

Every state park in Georgia that offers cottages has at least one that’s dog friendly! Cottages permit two-dogs per cottage. The pet fee is $50 per dog, per stay. Do not leave dogs unattended either in the cottage or in your vehicle. Georgia state park’s dog friendly cottages appear below. Make reservations at GeorgiaStateParks.org.

And don’t forget to join the Tails on Trails club at Georgia State Parks that allow pets. Tick off all the trails you hike with your pup. And get a t-shirt for yourself and a bandana for your dog.

Georgia State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

Hawaii State Parks – Pet Policy

Hawaii’s state parks prohibit pets and other animals in campgrounds, restaurants, pavilions, swimming areas, lodges, on beaches, and wherever posted.

Where they are permitted, pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet, be crated, caged, or otherwise under physical restrictive control at all times.

Idaho State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets are welcome in most Idaho State Parks, but not on the beaches, and some parks prohibit pets on trails and in some cabins and yurts. You must keep your pet on a leash no longer than 6-feet or confined inside a camper. Do not leave them in your vehicle.

Harriman State Park does not allow pets. Dogs are only permitted on one trail at Ponderosa State Park.

Pets are welcome in all Idaho state park campgrounds, except Harriman, and the parks listed below also have dog friendly cabins available for rent. Reserve a site at idahostateparks.reserveamerica.com.

Idaho State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

Illinois State Parks – Pet Policy (See Section 110.30)

Illinois state parks and campgrounds allow pets on a leash up to 10 feet long. But they do not allow dogs beaches, in cabins, or in concession and picnic areas. You may provide proof of current vaccinations upon request. And noisy, vicious, or dangerous animals must leave the park.

Indiana State Parks – Pet Policy

Indiana state parks welcome pets on a leash up to 6 feet long in campgrounds. But pets are not permitted at swimming pools, beaches (unless specifically designated for pets), rented recreation buildings, the Pioneer Village at Spring Mill State Park, or other public buildings. Dogs and cats must be current on their vaccinations.

Whitewater Memorial State Park offers pet friendly cabins for rent.

READ MORE ⇒  Dog Friendly Indiana Dunes

Indiana's Top Pet Friendly Attraction: Indiana Dunes Lakeshore | GoPetFriendly.com
 

Iowa State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on a leash up to 6 feet long are welcome in Iowa state parks, forests, and campgrounds. In addition, the Iowa state parks listed below have dog friendly cabins or yurts available for rent.

Two dogs are allowed per cabin/yurt. And you may not leave pets alone and unattended unless they are in a crate or carrier.

Iowa State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

Kansas State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on a leash up to 10 feet long are welcome in Kansas state parks and campgrounds. But you may not take pets on swimming beaches or swimming areas that are delineated by buoys or other markers, or into public buildings or structures.

Kentucky State Parks – Pet Policy

Kentucky state parks welcome pets on leash, except on park trails that share land with State Nature Preserves, and in protected archaeological areas. This includes John James Audubon SP, Wickliffe Mounds SHS, and all but one trail at Natural Bridge SRP.

A few trails at Blue Licks Battlefield State Parks, Carter Caves, Cumberland Falls, and Pine Mountain comprise nature preserves. Look for signs at trails where you cannot hike with your pets.

Leashed pets are welcome at all thirty-one Kentucky state park campgrounds. And those campgrounds with cottages and lodges offer pet friendly accommodations as well (listed below). There is a two pet limit in each cottage or lodge room, and a pet fee of $50 for cottages and $30 for lodge rooms applies. Do not take your pet inside restaurants, lobbies, or other public areas.

Kentucky State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

Louisiana State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on a leash up to six feet long are welcome in Louisiana state parks and campgrounds. As of 2020, sixteen state parks have pet friendly cabins. Owners must pay $40 per dog per stay in cabins in the state parks listed below.

Louisiana State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

Maine State Parks – Pet Policy

Leashed pets are welcome in all Maine state parks and campgrounds, except Baxter State Park and the Sebago Lake State Park campground. In addition, leashed pets can go on state park beaches between October 1 and March 31.

READ MORE ⇒  Tips for Teaching your Dog to Swim

Black German Shepherd Dog swimming at the beach on Mackinac Island, MI
 

Maryland State Parks – Pet Policy

Pet policies in Maryland state parks and campgrounds vary by location and time of year. It’s best to refer to the state’s pet policy page to determine the park policy at the time of your visit. Regardless of time of year or location, you must leash your pet. And visiting pets must be vaccinated.

Martinak State Park allows dogs in two of their camper cabins.

Massachusetts State Parks – Pet Policy

Up to four pets per person, on leashes up to ten feet long, are welcome in most Massachusetts state parks, forests, campgrounds, and reserves. Pets can also go on coastal beaches and designated swimmings areas of inland beaches from September 16 – April 30, unless otherwise posted.

You’ll have to show your pet’s license and have proof of rabies vaccination. Pets cannot go to indoor skating rinks, cabins, yurts, and the encompassing areas, playgrounds, or swimming pools. In addition, pets cannot go to the following parks: Walden Pond State Reservation, Moore State Park, City Square Park in Charlestown, Plum Island’s Sandy Point State Reservation, and Boston Harbor Islands.

Massachusetts also has many designated areas where dogs may be off-leash. Dogs must stay within sight at all times, come immediately when called, stay on command, not charge or chase people, dogs, horses, or wildlife, and be leashed when entering or exiting an off-leash area. Additional rules may vary by location, so follow posted rules and regulations.

North Region Off-leash Areas

Boston Region Off-leash Areas

  • Southwest Corridor Park in Boston – Carlton Court Dog Park (Carleton Street between Braddock Park and Holyoke Street)

South Region Off-leash Areas

Central Region Off-leash Areas

West Region Off-leash Areas

Michigan State Parks – Pet Policy

With a few exceptions, pets on a leash up to six feet long are welcome in Michigan state parks, campgrounds, and recreation areas. Michigan prohibits pets from boat access sites at varying times throughout the year. Information will be posted on signs.

Michigan State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

Pets cannot go on the Sandy Hook Trail at Tawas Point State Park, or on designated beaches or areas used for wading or swimming. However, the state has set aside several pet friendly shorelines where dogs are welcome.

Pet Friendly Shorelines in Michigan State Parks

  • Brighton Recreation Area – There is a pet friendly section of shoreline available on Chilson Pond.
  • Burt Lake State Park – A section of pet friendly shoreline is available on Burt Lake.
  • Grand Mere State Park – Pets may explore the entire length of the Lake Michigan shoreline (1 mile).
  • Harrisville State Park – A pet friendly section of shoreline is available at the north end of the camper’s beach. This section of shoreline is available via a foot trail near site #103.
  • McLain State Park – A portion of the Lake Superior shoreline at F.J. McLain State Park is pet friendly.
  • Mears State Park – The southernmost section of shoreline at Mears is pet friendly.

READ MORE ⇒  Visiting Mackinac Island With Pets

  • Otsego Lake State Park – There is a section of pet friendly shoreline on Otsego Lake, however it is only accessible via a flight of stairs near site 64. During times of high water, this area becomes even less accessible.
  • Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park – The shoreline is pet friendly.
  • Port Crescent State Park – A section of pet friendly shoreline is available near the mouth of the Pinnebog River. This area is accessible via the steel bridge that connects to the hiking trails closest to the campground.
  • South Higgins Lake State Park – There are two pet friendly areas of shoreline – one for campers-only near the west campground, and a second in the day use area.
  • Tawas Point State Park – A pet friendly section of shoreline is available on Tawas Bay between the campground and the lighthouse. A fence encloses the pet friendly area. It is the only shoreline-area in the park where pets are allowed. Pets are prohibited in all other beach-areas as well as the Sandy Hook Trail.
  • Warren Dunes State Park – Pets may visit north of the northernmost swim buoy at the beach, providing 2.5 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline.

Minnesota State Parks – Pet Policy

Minnesota state parks and campgrounds welcome pets on a leash up to six feet long. But do not leave your pets unattended. Pets cannot go into buildings, lodging, cabins, camper cabins, on tours, or in beach areas.

READ MORE ⇒  Minnesota’s Pet Friendly Itasca State Park

Two dogs admiring the view at pet friendly Itasca State Park in Minnesota
 

Mississippi State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on a leash up to six feet long are welcome in Mississippi state parks and campgrounds. But pets are not welcome in cabins, cottages, on beaches, or in swimming pool areas.

Missouri State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on a leash no longer than 10 feet are welcome in Missouri state parks. Pets cannot go inside any state park or historic site building, in public swimming areas and beaches, or on the trails at Prairie State Park.

Two pets are welcome per campsite in all Missouri state park campgrounds, and the parks listed below also have dog friendly accommodations, including outpost cabins, camper cabins, yurts, single-unit cabins, fourplexes and duplexes.

A pet fee of a minimum of $15 per dog per night, depending on the accommodations, applies on lodging rentals, and there is a limit of two dogs per unit. Do not leave your dog unattended at any time unless in a carrier or crate. The park provides crates with a rental fee.

Missouri State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

Montana State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets are welcome in most Montana state parks, and from April 15 – September 15, they must be on a leash no longer than ten feet, unless otherwise posted. Pets cannot go on swimming beaches, at Frenchtown Pond SP, Wild Horse Island SP, Smith River SP (leashed pets are allowed only at the put-in and take-out locations, not on the float), Spring Meadow Lake from April 16 – October 14, and any other posted areas.

Montana also welcomes pets in most state park campgrounds, and the following parks offer pet friendly tipi or shelter rentals:

Montana State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

Nebraska State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on leashes up to six feet long are welcome in Nebraska state parks and campgrounds. But pets cannot go in lodge rooms, public buildings, and designated swimming beaches or pools.

The following Nebraska state parks offer pet friendly cabin rentals for an additional pet fee of $20:

Nebraska State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

READ MORE ⇒  Nebraska’s Fort Robinson State Park

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Nevada State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on leashes up to six feet long are welcome in nearly all Nevada state parks and campgrounds. The only exceptions are Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park and Sand Harbor at Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park (between April 15 and November 15).

New Hampshire State Parks – Pet Policy

Pet policies in New Hampshire state parks and campgrounds vary by location. But pets may never visit state beaches, picnic areas, and historic sites. It’s best to refer to the state’s pet policy page to determine the pet policy of the park you’re considering before your visit.

Regardless of the location or time of year, New Hampshire requires you to always keep your pet on a leash. You may not leave pets unattended.

New Jersey State Parks – Pet Policy

New Jersey state parks and campgrounds welcome pets on leashes up to six feet long. Pets cannot go in buildings, on swimming beaches, in campsites designated as not pet friendly, or in overnight accommodations.

New Mexico State Parks – Pet Policy (See section 19.5.2.26)

Most New Mexico state parks and campgrounds welcome pets on leashes up to ten feet long. Pets must be vaccinated and cannot be left unattended in a vehicle or at a campsite.

Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park, and Smokey Bear Historic Park do not allow pets.

New York State Parks – Pet Policy

Most New York state park welcome pets on leashes up to six feet long. And New York allows two pets per site in designated loops of state park campgrounds. You must present your pet’s proof of vaccination, cannot leave them unattended, and cannot take them in buildings, picnic or swimming areas, or where posted.

At Rockland State Park pets are allowed only between October 1 and April 30. Even then, they must stay off the bike path or improved walkways. At Watkins Glen State Park, pets cannot go on the Gorge Trail.

New York State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

Buster & Ty on Bear Mountain - Hudson Valley, NY - a state park that allows dogs
 

North Carolina State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on leashes up to six feet long are welcome in North Carolina state parks and in some campgrounds. Pets cannot go in building, bathhouses, swimming areas, or on the ferry at Hammocks Beach State Park.

North Carolina state park campgrounds with pet friendly campsites:

  • Carolina Beach State Park
  • Cliffs of the Neuse State Park
  • Crowders Mountain State Park
  • Eno River State Park
  • Falls Lake State Recreation Area
  • Hanging Rock State Park
  • Jones Lake State Park
  • Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
  • Kerr Lake State Recreation Area
  • Lake Norman State Park
  • Medoc Mountain State Park
  • Merchants Millpond State Park
  • Morrow Mountain State Park
  • Mount Mitchell State Park
  • New River State Park
  • Pettigrew State Park
  • Pilot Mountain State Park
  • South Mountains State Park
  • Stone Mountain State Park
  • William B. Umstead State Park

North Dakota State Parks – Pet Policy

Leashed pets are welcome in North Dakota state parks and campgrounds. Do not leave pets unattended. They are not allowed in designated swimming areas, playgrounds, or in park buildings, including, but not limited to, cabins, dormitories and comfort stations.

Ohio State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on leashes up to six feet long are welcome in Ohio state parks and campgrounds. Ohio does not allow pets in cabins, cabin areas, lodges, lodge areas, camping areas designated as not pet friendly, wildlife display areas, or at any beach, swimming pool, or golf course.

In addition to welcoming two pets per campsite in all 56 Ohio state park campgrounds, and the state parks listed below offer pet friendly cabin, yurt, or lodge rentals.

Ohio State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

  • Burr Oak State Park
  • Cowan Lake State Park
  • Dillon State Park
  • Hueston Woods State Park
  • Lake Hope State Park
  • Maumee Bay State Park
  • Pike Lake State Park
  • Punderson State Park
  • Pymatuning State Park
  • Salt Fork State Park
  • Shawnee State Park

Pet Friendly Lake Access in Ohio State Parks

READ MORE ⇒  Ohio’s Hocking Hills State Park

Man and a dog in a fishing boat at sunrise with fog rising off the water
 

Oklahoma State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on a leash up to ten feet long are welcome in Oklahoma state parks and campgrounds. Great Plains State Park in Mountain Park has a dog swim beach. In addition, the Oklahoma state parks listed below have special accommodations for dogs.

Oklahoma State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

  • Clayton Lake State Park in Clayton – pet friendly, two bedroom cabin with no pet fee
  • Greenleaf State Park in Braggs – pet friendly cabins for a small nightly fee
  • Hugo Lake State Park in Hugo –  pet friendly primitive and resort cabins with small pet fee. Resort cabins feature satellite television, fully equipped kitchens, two bedrooms and spacious decks with views of Hugo Lake. Primitive cabins feature heating and air conditioning and screened-in porches with lake views.
  • Lake Murray State Park and Lodge in Ardmore – pet friendly cabins for a $15 per pet per day fee
  • McGee Creek State Park in Atoka – pet friendly rustic lake huts outfitted with bunk beds, a fireplace and air conditioning
  • Robbers Cave State Park in Wilburton – pet friendly cabins for a $15 per pet per day fee

Oregon State Parks – Pet Policy

Most Oregon state parks and campgrounds welcome pets on leash up to six feet long. Pets cannot go in Dabney State Recreation Area, or on the Canyon Trail or connecting Winter Trail, Maple Ridge Trail and Twin Falls trails at Silver Falls State Park.

In addition to welcoming pets at Oregon their campgrounds, the parks listed below allow up to two dogs and cats to stay in pet friendly cabin and yurt rentals for an additional $10 fee.

Oregon State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

  • Beachside State Park
  • Beverly Beach State Park
  • Bullards Beach State Park
  • Cape Blanco State Park
  • Cape Lookout State Park
  • Champoeg State Park
  • Devils Lake State Park
  • Emigrant Springs State Park
  • Fort Stevens State Park
  • Harris Beach State Park
  • Honeyman State Park
  • Jasper Point State Park (at Prineville Reservoir)
  • LaPine State Park
  • Nehalem Bay State Park
  • Prineville State Park
  • Silver Falls State Park
  • South Beach State Park
  • Stub Steward State Park
  • Sunset Bay State Park
  • Tumalo State Park
  • Umpqua River Lighthouse State Park
  • Valley of the Rogue State Park
  • William M. Tugman State Park

Dogs on Oregon State Park Beaches

Dogs can generally go off-leash on Oregon state beaches. However, they must be under your direct control. Exceptions include areas designated as occupied sites for western snowy plovers where dogs are not allowed in wet sand areas, and in areas designated as unoccupied sites for western snowy plovers, where dogs must be on a leash of six feet or less. Always carry a leash, prevent your pet from disturbing wildlife, and clean up after your pets on the beach (and everywhere else).

Oregon State Parks With Off-Leash Areas

  • Cascadia State Park – unfenced
  • Champoeg State Park – unfenced
  • Elijah Bristow State Park – fenced
  • Farewell Bend State Park – fenced
  • Goose Lake State Park – unfenced
  • Hat Rock State Park – unfenced
  • Jasper State Park – fenced
  • LaPine State Park – fenced
  • Lewis & Clark State Park – unfenced
  • McVay Rock – fenced
  • Milo McIver State Park – unfenced
  • Molalla River State Park – unfenced
  • Rooster Rock State Park – unfenced
  • Silver Falls State Park – unfenced
  • L. L. Stub Stewart State Park – fenced
  • The Cove Palisades State Park – fenced
  • Wallowa Lake State Park – unfenced
  • Willamette Mission State Park – unfenced

READ MORE ⇒  Dog Friendly Whidbey & Fidalgo Islands

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Pennsylvania State Parks – Pet Policy

In Pennsylvania state parks, you make take leashed pets to day-use areas, on trails, in most campgrounds (two pets per campsite), and in designated cabins, camping cottages, and yurts. You must provide proof of vacation. And pets may not be left unattended. They are prohibited in swimming areas, inside public buildings, in overnight areas not designated as pet friendly, and in any area posted as closed to pets.

Pets are not permitted at the Night Sky programs at Cherry Springs State Park or in the campgrounds at the following parks:

  • Cherry Springs State Park
  • Kettle Creek State Park (Lower loop only)
  • Caledonia State Park (Chinquapin Hill campground only)
  • Promised Lands (Pine campground only)

The Pennsylvania state parks listed below offer dog friendly rental cabins, cottages and yurts for up to two dogs for an additional pet fee of $2-5 per night. Some accommodations close for the winter, so verify availability on the state’s website.

Pennsylvania State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

  • Bald Eagle State Park – Yurt B and Camping Cottage 1
  • Black Moshannon – Deluxe Cabin Cranberry 22, Cabins 17 – 19
  • Canoe Creek – Modern Cabins 7, 8
  • Chapman State Park – Camping Cottage 1
  • Clear Creek State Park – Rustic Cabins 10-13
  • Codorus State Park – Cottage 66, Yurt 67
  • Cook Forest State Park – River Cabins 7, 11, 12, 14 and 15
  • Cowans Gap State Park – Cabins A, B, and C
  • French Creek State Park – Cottage 1
  • Gifford Pinchot State Park – Willow Cottage
  • Hills Creek State Park – Cabins 1, 2 and 3Rusti
  • Kooser State Park – Cabins 21 and 22
  • Linn Run State Park – Rustic Cabins 9 and 10; Modern Cabin 7
  • Little Buffalo State Park – Cottages 4 and 5
  • Moraine State Park – Cabins 7 and 11
  • Nockamixin State Park – Cabins 1, 2, 3 and 6
  • Ohiopyle State Park – Cottages 198, 235, 236 and 237
  • Parker Dam State Park – Tyler Cabin, Rustic Cabins 11, 12
  • Poe Valley State Park – Cottage 11
  • Prince Gallitzin State Park – Cabins 1, 9 and9 10
  • Promised Land State Park – Cabins 9, 10, 11 and 12; Whittaker Lodge
  • Pymatuning State Park – Moderns Cabins 1 – 4, 16, 18 and 19; Linesville Modern Cabins 21 – 25
  • Ricketts Glen State Park – Modern Cabins C, H and 1, Deluxe Cottages Huron, Seneca, Shawnee
  • Tuscarora State Park – Cottage 1
  • Worlds End State Park – Cabins 9 and 19
  • Yellow Creek State Park – Cottages 1, 2 and 3; Yurt D

Rhode Island State Parks – Pet Policy

Visitors may bring up to two (2) total dogs or cats to Burlingame State Campground, Fishermen’s Memorial State Campground and George Washington State Campground. Dogs must be well socialized, friendly, and happy and have a current rabies vaccination. You may not bring pets to Charlestown Breachway or East Beach Campgrounds. And RI state beaches prohibit pets.

You must provide proof of vaccination upon request. Dogs must have a valid license tag. And you may not leave your pets unattended.

South Carolina State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on leashes up to six feet long are welcome in the outdoor areas of South Carolina state parks and campgrounds. Owners must remove noisy or dangerous pets, or any pet that threatens or harasses wildlife.

The parks listed below allow pets under 75 pounds in select villas or cabins for an additional fee of $55.

South Carolina State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

  • Barnwell State Park – Cabin 2
  • Devils Fork State Park – Villas 1 – 5
  • Dreher Island State Park – Camper Cabins 2 – 5
  • Oconee State Park – Cabin 20
  • Santee State Park – 11, 12, 13 – 20

South Dakota State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on leashes up to 10 feet long are welcome in South Dakota state parks and campgrounds. Outside of campgrounds and day use areas pets must be under immediate control and more than 200 feet from other park guests. Designated swimming beaches or in any park buildings, including camping cabins, lodges and comfort stations all prohibit pets.

READ MORE ⇒  Pet Friendly Custer State Park

state parks that allow dogs - Custer State Park where a man and German Shepherd sit at a picnic table overlooking a lake
 

Tennessee State Parks – Pet Policy

Tennessee state parks welcome leashed pets on trails and campgrounds. But you cannot bring pets to park inns or cabins (except those designated as pet friendly), lodges, food stores, picnic areas, swimming beaches, or pools. Trails and other areas of the parks may also be posted as closed to pets as deemed necessary. Do not leave pets unattended. And remember to bring proof of rabies vaccination.

For an additional fee of $20 per pet per night, the following Tennessee State Parks offer a limited number of pet friendly inn rooms and one cabin at each park for guests who travel with their pets. Reservations should be made by calling the park and asking for a pet friendly room or cabin.

Tennessee State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

  • Big Ridge State Park
  • Cedars of Lebanon State Park
  • Chickasaw State Park
  • Cumberland Mountain State Park
  • David Crockett State Park
  • Edgar Evins State Park
  • Fall Creek Falls State Park
  • Henry Horton State Park
  • Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
  • Montgomery Bell State Park
  • Natchez Trace State Park
  • Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park
  • Norris Dam State Park
  • Paris Landing State Park
  • Pickett State Park
  • Pickwick Landing State Park
  • Roan Mountain State Park
  • Rock Island State Park
  • Standing Stone State Park
  • Tims Ford State Park

Texas State Parks – Pet Policy

Most Texas state parks and campgrounds welcome pets on a leash up to six feet long. Pets cannot be left unattended, and proof of vaccination must be provided upon request.

Pets cannot go in restaurants, snack bars, cabins, lodge rooms, restrooms, park stores, shelters, refectory buildings, amphitheaters, administration buildings, railroad coaches, or designated swimming beaches.

In addition, the following parks have specific pet restrictions to protect pets and wildlife:

Man and German Shepherd Dog on the pet friendly Hoodoos Trail in Big Bend Ranch State Park, Texas
 

Utah State Parks – Pet Policy

Most Utah state parks are pet friendly, however, pets must be on a maximum six foot leash and not left unattended. Pets cannot go in buildings, on beaches, or in the lakes or reservoirs.

Pets are prohibited on boats, beaches, in the reservoir, or in any park buildings. The following areas restrict pets:

  •  Jordanelle State Park (Rock Cliff) – Dogs are restricted except for perimiter trail and associated parking areas.
  • Deer Creek State Park – Dogs are prohibited below the high water line and in or on the reservoir.
  • Snow Canyon State Park – Dogs are prohibited on all trails and natural areas of the park unless posted.
  • Dead Horse Point State Park – Pets are not allowed on the Intrepid Trail.

Vermont State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on leashes up to ten feet long are welcome in most Vermont state parks and campgrounds, including all trails (unless otherwise designated), Mt. Philo summit and day use area, Sliver Lake and Branbury beaches (except the sandy part of the beach and swimming area), Lake St. Catherine campers’ beach, Lake Carmi Loop A campers’ beach, picnic areas at Osmore Pond, Owls Head, Allis, Elmore, and Underhill, and cabins A and B at Lake Carmi.

Proof of rabies vaccination must be provide upon request, and a pet fee of $1 per pet per night applies at all campgrounds. Unless specifically stated above, pets are not permitted in day use areas, on beaches, in picnic areas and pavilions, or in most cottages or cabins.

The parks listed below each have a pet friendly.

Vermont State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

  • Brighton State Park
  • Burton Island State Park
  • Button Bay State Park
  • Gifford Woods State Park
  • Grand Isle State Park
  • Half Moon Pond State Park
  • Lake Carmi State Park (2)
  • Little River State Park
  • Ricker Pond State Park
  • Wilgus State Park
  • Woodford State Park

Virginia State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on leashes up to six feet long are welcome in all Virginia state parks and campgrounds. Pets may not be left unattended, and proof of vaccination must be provided upon request.

State regulations prohibit pets on public swim beaches, in public facilities like bathhouses, visitor centers, park offices, and restaurants. While pets are allowed at False Cape State Park, they are not permitted access through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

For an additional fee of $10 per pet per night, there are more than 300 pet friendly cabin, lodge, and travel trailer rentals for guests traveling with their pets at Virginia state parks.

Virginia State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

  • Bear Creek Lake State Park
  • Belle Isle State Park
  • Chippokes Plantation State Park
  • Claytor Lake State Park
  • Douthat State Park
  • Fairy Stone State Park
  • First Landing State Park
  • Hungry Mother State Park
  • James River State Park
  • Kiptopeke State Park (Yurt is not pet friendly)
  • Lake Anna State Park
  • Natural Tunnel State Park
  • Occoneechee State Park
  • Shenandoah River State Park
  • Smith Mountain Lake State Park
  • Southwest Virginia Museum
  • Staunton River State Park
  • Twin Lakes State Park
  • Westmoreland State Park

Washington State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on leashes up to eight feet long are welcome in Washington state parks and campgrounds, but are not permitted on designated swimming beaches, within a natural area preserve, or on any designated alpine ski site or cross country trail which has been prepared, set, or groomed during ski season.

The Washington state parks listed below offer pet friendly cabins and yurt rentals for guests traveling with their pets with a nightly fee of $15 per pet.

Washington State Parks with Pet Friendly Rentals

  • Bay View State Park
  • Cape Disappointment State Park
  • Conconully State Park
  • Dash Point State Park
  • Dosewallips State Park
  • Grayland Beach State Park
  • Ike Kinswa State Park
  • Kanaskat-Palmer State Park
  • Rasar State Park
  • Steamboat Rock State Park
  • Wallace Falls State Park
Exploring Fidalgo and Whidbey Island with Dogs | GoPetFriendly.com
 

West Virginia State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on leashes up to ten feet long are welcome in West Virginia state parks, forests, and campgrounds. Be prepared to provide a certificate of vaccination, and use designated pet relief areas where provided.

West Virginia State Parks With Pet Friendly Rentals

The parks listed below offer pet friendly cabin or cottage rentals. Additional pet fees apply.

  • Babcock State Park
  • Beech Fork State Park
  • Blackwater Falls State Park
  • Bluestone State Park
  • Cabwaylingo State Forest
  • Cacapon Resort State Park
  • Canaan Valley State Park
  • Greenbrier State Forest
  • Holly River State Park
  • Kumbrabow State Forest
  • Lost River State Park
  • North Bend State Park
  • Pipestem Resort State Park
  • Seneca State Forest
  • Twin Falls Resort State Park
  • Tygart Lake State Park
  • Watoga State Park

West Virginia State Parks With Pet friendly Lodge Accommodations

The parks listed below offer pet friendly lodge accommodations. Additional pet fees apply, and there is a two pet limit, and a 15-pound maximum weight per pet.

  • Blackwater Falls State Park Lodge
  • Cacapon Resort State Park Lodge
  • Chief Logan Lodge
  • Hawks Nest State Park Lodge
  • North Bend State Park Lodge
  • Pipestem Resort State Park – McKeever Lodge
  • Twin Falls Resort State Park Lodge
  • Tygart Lake State Park Lodge

Wisconsin State Parks – Pet Policy

Pets on leashes up to eight feet long are welcome in most Wisconsin state parks, forests, and campgrounds. Unless specifically stated, pets cannot go in buildings, picnic areas and picnic shelters, on beaches, playgrounds, marked nature trails, or in observation towers. That includes the trails around the waterfalls at Copper Falls, Paradise Springs at Kettle Moraine State Forest, and Boardwalk Trail at Big Bay, and cross-country ski trails when groomed for skiing.

The following parks have pet friendly amenities:

Pets cannot go in these areas:

  • Aztalan State Park
  • Copper Culture State Park
  • Devil’s Lake South Shore area (except on paved roads and walkways leading to areas that allow pets)
  • Governor Nelson State Park (except at the dog swim area)
  • Parts of Havenwoods State Forest
  • Heritage Hill State Park
  • Hoffman Hills State Recreation Area
  • Kettle Moraine State Forest Southern Unit – Loop 1 of Pinewoods family campground and the west loop of Whitewater campground in
  • Parts of the Rock Island State Park campground
  • Parts of the Tower Hill State Park campground

Wyoming State Parks – Pet Policy (See Section 10)

Wyoming welcomes pets on leashes up to ten feet long in state parks and campgrounds, but not in picnic areas, food stores, public buildings, or on designated swimming beaches. Don’t leave pets unattended for more than an hour.

I hope we’ve convinced you that state parks that allow pets offer many great options for pet travelers. Whether you enjoy long hikes, learning at historic sites, camping, or swimming you’ll find options all over the country–some right in your own back yard!

So what are you waiting for? Get out there an discover your favorite state parks that allow pets.

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Category: Travel Destinations, Travel Resources / Tagged with: Beaches, Camping, Hiking, Pet Friendly Lodging