8 Best Dog Friendly National Parks to Explore With Your Pup

There’s nothing like a national park adventure—with your four-legged best friend in tow. For dog lovers who thrive on trail time, mountain air, and campfire nights, planning outdoor escapes with your pup can be the ultimate bonding experience. At Timber & Tides Collective, we believe the outdoors are better shared—and that includes our dogs.

But not all national parks roll out the welcome mat for pets. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best dog friendly national parks where you and your furry sidekick can hike, explore, and soak up nature together. These parks not only allow dogs—they celebrate the joy they bring to outdoor adventures.

1. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia is a dream for dog owners. With over 100 miles of pet-friendly hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads, it’s one of the most accessible parks for dogs, making it number one on our list of best dog friendly national parks. Leashed pups are welcome in nearly all areas, including the beautiful Ocean Path Trail, Jordan Pond, and Cadillac Mountain.

Why we love it: Rugged coastline, cool temps, and plenty of space to roam. Plus, Bar Harbor is an ultra dog-friendly town to explore post-hike.

2. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah offers more than 500 miles of trails—and over 400 miles are dog-friendly. The scenic Skyline Drive alone makes this park a must-visit, and the gentle trails are perfect for both seasoned hiking dogs and senior pups.

Don’t miss: Stony Man Trail or Rose River Falls for breathtaking views and relatively easy terrain.

3. Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim), Arizona

While dogs aren’t allowed below the rim, the South Rim features several paved walking paths that are perfect for leashed pets. The Rim Trail offers panoramic canyon views without steep descents.

Insider tip: Nearby dog boarding and daycare services can watch your pup if you want to hike deeper into the canyon.

4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Tucked between Cleveland and Akron, this hidden gem offers over 110 miles of dog-friendly trails. From waterfalls to lush forest paths, it’s a great Midwest escape for pups and their people.

Top trail: The Brandywine Gorge Trail is scenic and pup-approved.

5. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

Where else can your dog run free on surreal, sandy dunes and splash in a creek? This is a great reason that this park is on our list of best dog friendly national parks. Leashed pets are allowed on the main dunes, in the campground, and along several trails in Great Sand Dunes National Park.

Pro tip: Visit in the early morning or evening to avoid the scorching midday sand under your pup’s paws.

6. White Sands National Park, New Mexico

Known for its ethereal gypsum sand dunes, this park is as magical for dogs as it is for humans. Pets can explore the dunes at White Sands National Park as long as they stay leashed.

Why it’s special: Cooler sand temps mean safer paw travel—and epic photo ops.

7. Congaree National Park, South Carolina

This lesser-known park is full of swampy charm and towering trees. Dogs are allowed on all hiking trails and boardwalks, making it a tranquil spot for a peaceful, shaded adventure.

Highlight: The Boardwalk Loop Trail is a laid-back, scenic stroll.

8. Olympic National Park, Washington

Rounding out our list of best dog friendly national parks takes us to the Pacific Northwest. While some parts of Olympic are restricted, there are a handful of incredible, dog friendly national park trails, especially in the coastal and forest areas. Leashed dogs are welcome on the Peabody Creek Trail, Madison Falls Trail, and beaches like Kalaloch and Rialto.

Added bonus: Olympic is close to many dog-welcoming towns with pet-friendly lodging and cafés.

Things to Pack When Visiting Dog Friendly Parks

Before you set out to explore the best dog friendly national parks, make sure you’ve got the right gear. Below are some of our favorites:

• A sturdy leash (6 ft or shorter) – The Tuff Pupper Heavy Duty Dual Handle leash is easy to use and sturdy for both you and your furry best friend to feel safe on the trails.
• Collapsible water bowls – This two pack Katozoo Travel Dog Bowls make it easy for your travel buddy to eat and drink while adventuring with you.
• Biodegradable waste bags – PobbY Biodegradable Poop Bags are our “go to” bags for all travel and walking needs…whenever our girl Cleo, needs to do her business.
• Paw balm for rocky or sandy terrain – As a plant based balm for your dog’s paws, Finn Paw Hero helps protect, nourish, and soothe paws no matter the terrain you’re hiking.

And always have updated tags for your furry friend. Before you travel, don’t forget to check each park’s website for the most up-to-date pet rules!

Celebrate Adventure—With Your Pup in Tow

Whether you’re hiking the dunes of Colorado or wandering Maine’s coastal cliffs, these best dog friendly national parks offer the perfect mix of wild beauty and pup-loving trails. They prove that exploring the outdoors isn’t just a solo or two-legged affair—it’s a family thing, paws included.

At Timber & Tides Collective, we’re all about celebrating that bond. Our gear is made for women who roam, run, and adventure with their dogs, their friends, and their wild spirits.

Ready for more outdoor inspo?
Visit Timber & Tides Collective for more articles like this and to shop our cozy, adventure-ready collections. Your next trail day awaits—coffee, leash, and good vibes in hand.