Hoping to hit the trails with your four-legged bestie? Nothing beats the epic outdoor explorations found at America’s national parks. However, not all parks are created equal when it comes to dog-friendly adventures, as many restrict pet access to protect local plant and animal life.
But don’t be discouraged—there are still a lot of great options for bringing your furry friends to national parks across the U.S. Here are some pup-friendly options to consider, each of which offers experiences that the whole family can enjoy together.
Arizona: Petrified Forest National Park
At Petrified Forest National Park, you can marvel at colorful petrified wood and ancient petroglyphs and learn about the area's rich paleontological history. Whether touring the park’s Rainbow Forest or the charming Painted Desert, leashed dogs are permitted on all the trails and in the backcountry within this stunning park.
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Come nightfall, settle into a pet-friendly room at Hampton Inn & Suites Show Low-Pinetop, just a short drive from the park.
Arkansas: Hot Springs National Park
Historic bathhouses and natural thermal springs make Hot Springs National Park a unique spot to explore. In addition to experiencing traditional bathhouse culture, the park offers 26 miles of hiking trails, most of which are pet approved.
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When it comes time to rest up after days filled with adventure, pick from a variety of perfectly positioned Hilton hotels nearby, including DoubleTree by Hilton Hot Springs, where guests can relax in the lakeside pool.
Colorado: Great Sand Dunes National Park
Great Sand Dunes National Park features North America's tallest sand dunes, set against a mountainous backdrop. Hike with your hound along the Dunes Overlook Trail and spend your evenings stargazing in this recently designated Dark Sky Park.
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After a day of hiking, guests can cool off in the indoor pool and whirlpool at Hampton Inn by Hilton Alamosa, CO, located just a 45 minute drive from the park.
Maine: Acadia National Park
Boasting a gorgeous mix of rocky coastlines, forests, and mountains, Acadia National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts traveling with man’s best friend. The park is among the most dog-friendly in the U.S., with nearly 100 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads.
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Fuel up for your epic outdoor explorations by taking advantage of the breakfast included during your stay at the nearby Hampton Inn Ellsworth/Bar Harbor.
New Mexico: White Sands National Park
Pack up your pooch and head for White Sands National Park where you can enjoy hours of excitement playing in the park’s glistening wave-like dunes of gypsum sand. Venture through this unique landscape while hiking, sand sledding, and rolling down the windows during scenic drives.
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At the end of the day, curl up in the comfy beds found at pup-friendly accommodations like the all-suite Home2 Suites by Hilton Alamogordo White Sands or the conveniently located Hampton Inn Alamogordo.
Ohio: Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park preserves a mix of natural and cultural features along Ohio’s Cuyahoga River. Dog-friendly trails offer an opportunity to explore a natural wonderland located just a short drive from downtown Cleveland.
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Book a room just outside the park at Hilton Garden Inn Cleveland/Twinsburg, or pick accommodations in the heart of Cleveland and enjoy Lake Erie views from Hilton Cleveland Downtown.
South Carolina: Congaree National Park
The largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States is waiting to be discovered at Congaree National Park. It’s a place where diverse ecosystems are on display from the comfort of the park’s scenic boardwalk, which is open to all travelers, including four-legged friends.
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You and Fido can rest and recharge at the all-new Tru by Hilton Columbia Downtown, or embrace the local college spirit at Graduate by Hilton Columbia, S.C., located steps from the University of South Carolina.
Virginia: Shenandoah National Park
Nowhere is the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains more evident than on Shenandoah National Park’s striking Skyline Drive. It’s the ultimate road trip destination for Rover, who can join you on many of the park’s more than 500 miles of hiking trails.
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Stay in the nearby Home2 Suites by Hilton Harrisonburg University for easy access to the park or settle into accommodations close to the National Mall at The Morrow Washington DC, Curio Collection by Hilton.
West Virginia: New River Gorge National Park
New River Gorge National Park features one of the oldest rivers in North America, surrounded by rugged canyon landscapes. The park offers breathtaking views of the New River Gorge Bridge, dog-friendly trails, and seemingly endless opportunities for watercraft fun, including kayaking and paddleboarding with your pooch.
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For well-appointed digs close to the action, stay at Tru by Hilton Beckley, which offers lots of fun amenities, or the pup-approved Hampton Inn Beckley.
Other Dog-Friendly National Parks
Looking for even more opportunities to explore? These parks also allow you to embark on an outdoor adventure with your furry friends.
- Wrangell-St Elias National Park and Preserve in Alaska is the largest national park in the U.S., and it’s also dog friendly. Here, your pup can join you on trails within the park and in the backcountry.
- Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona tops many travelers’ wish lists, and those arriving with their pup can enjoy epic views along the 13 miles of the South Rim Trail. However, dogs are not allowed on trails that take you into the canyon itself.
- Indiana Dunes National Park, situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, is the ideal playscape for hounds who enjoy swimming and trotting along sandy beaches. Do keep in mind that canine companions need to be leashed at all times, even while playing in the surf.
- Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky does not allow dogs inside the namesake cave, but the park’s more than 80 miles of trails allow for dog-friendly hiking through rolling hills and scenic river valleys.
- Gateway Arch National Park in Missouri features lush grounds that allow you to frolic and play with Fido under the shadow of one of the Midwest’s most iconic landmarks. While your pet can’t go inside the arch, it makes a great backdrop for furry family photos.
What to Do When Your Pup Isn’t Welcome
Experiencing America’s natural wonders with your fluffy best friend is an unforgettable experience. However, not all national parks are suitable for animal companions. Temperatures in places like Moab, Utah, home to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks regularly exceed 100°F and these extreme temperatures mean your pets are susceptible to heat-related illness or injury. Be sure to choose a safe place for your dog to cool down during the heat of the day while you explore. The rooms at Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton, or the family-friendly Homewood Suites by Hilton Moab make the perfect spot for your beloved pet’s stay.
Hard-to-reach parks, like the watery wonderland of Florida’s Dry Tortugas National Park, provide transportation problems that prevent most visitors from traveling with their dog in tow. Leaving your pooch for a few hours at a boarding facility or pet-friendly hotel like The Reach Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton offers you the peace of mind needed to enjoy your day trip to this island park.
Follow BARK Ranger Rules
No matter where you roam, be sure to follow the National Park Service BARK Ranger rules:
- Bag your pet’s waste
- Always leash your pet
- Respect wildlife
- Know where you can go
By following these simple rules, you and your favorite four-legged companion are sure to have a tail-wagging good time!