You’ve done the planning. The campsite is reserved and the trail maps are highlighted. The car is packed and you are ready to go. But what’s this? The dog is giving you a look as if to say, “You didn’t forget about me, did you?” And so you think, “Can I bring my pet?”
Whether or not you can or should bring your pet, particularly dogs, is a common concern and one I am here to, hopefully, resolve. Learn what regulations you can expect and check out other information that will help you determine whether or not to leave Fido at home.
Generally Speaking
Pet regulations may vary from park to park, but generally speaking, there are a few standard rules.
- Pet must be leashed or physically restrained at all times.
- Leashes cannot be more than 6 feet in length.
- Leased pets must not be left unattended.
- You are required to clean up after your pet, including throwing away feces in trash receptacles.
Why the Rules?
Parks have created these restrictions not to frustrate visitors, but to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for all. It is important to remember that while you are excited to have your best buddy along for the ride, not everyone in the park may be excited about it. Some visitors may be afraid of dogs and it is important to respect that.
Animals are asked to be leashed not only for the protection of visitors, but also the wild animals that call that park home. Unattended animals can attract unwanted attention from wild animals like bears, mountain lions, and more. This can post as a threat to other visitors as well as your pet. Dogs themselves are natural predators and can harm or kill native wildlife protected in the park’s boundaries. Parks were created to help protect and preserve wildlife so you should consider whether or not your dog enjoys to hunt or is aggressive.
Even if you have the nicest dog or cat in the world, keep in mind they will probably want to “mark their territory” and even that can threaten wildlife as diseases may spread. Many parks have restrictions on trails as animals can carry diseases or parasites into parks. Just like Mammoth Cave National Park has restrictions on what visitors can wear into caves to protect bats from disease, many parks worry pets can contaminate protected lands.
Another reason for pet regulations is that parks work hard to maintain trails for visitors to explore, many of which can be narrow. Even if your pet is on a leash, it is still possible they may trample or dig up vegetation. If you have a large dog, keep this in mind.
Park to Park
The best thing, and easiest thing, to do before any trip is call your specific destination and ask about pet regulations. While some rules are general, each park may have specific guidelines when it comes to pets. For example, Olympic National Park allows leashed pets in campgrounds, picnic areas, and specific trails, whereas in Denali National Park & Preserve pets are not allowed on trails or in the wilderness.
It is also important to do your research in the surrounding area. Some parks encourage the use of kennels if you plan on backcountry excursions or if the park has extreme weather conditions. For example, Canyonlands National Park allowed pets in developed campgrounds but encourages visitors with pets to call Desert Doggie Daycare, a local kennel in the Moab area, as temperatures in the desert can be deadly for pets.
Be sure to talk to a Ranger or park employee to discuss the specific regulations of pets and how it may affect your trip.
To Bring or Not to Bring
Now that you have an idea of what rules and regulations are awaiting you at the parks, it is important to ask yourself, “Should I bring my pet?” This is a very personal decision and one that should not be taken lightly. Here are a few things to consider:
How many days will you be traveling? If you are planning more than a day outing, it may be wise to leave your pet at home or in a kennel close to the park. This way you can enjoy time with your pet, but not be limited as to where you can explore.
How far are you traveling? While parks can provide an economical vacation, traveling with your pet may tighten the wallet. Transporting a pet on an airplane is not free and driving with a pet isn’t any easier. Consider how many times your pet will need to get out to stretch its legs, go to the bathroom, and get water.
Will you be camping or traveling through the backcountry? If so, keep in mind that majority of parks do not allow pets in the backcountry. Examples include Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Glacier, Rocky Mountains, and Great Smoky Mountains.
How noisy is your pet? As a former Beagle owner, I am no stranger to a howling dog. But parks like to maintain tranquility and quiet so consider whether or not your pet will disturb others.
Traveling to parks can be great fun for you and your pet, just be sure to do your research before-hand. If parks seem too restrictive, another option may be areas governed by the Bureau of Land Management and the USDA Forest Service. These organizations tend to have fewer developed areas than national parks so they may offer a better alternative those who want to travel with their pet. No matter where you decide to go, you and your pet will appreciate the fresh air, beautiful scenery, and have fun along the way!
