Are Dogs Allowed in Texas State Parks?
Dogs are allowed in Texas state parks. Almost all of the state parks in Texas allow dogs in the park, with some limitations of where they are allowed to go within the park.
If there are dangerous conditions, sensitive wildlife, or cultural heritage artifacts, dogs might not be allowed in the entire area. Enchanted Rock and Big Bend Ranch both have many restrictions on where dogs are able to go.
Dogs are allowed on almost all hiking trails and campsite areas. They must be on a leash no longer than six feet long. Owners are responsible for collecting and sanitary disposal of all pet waste.
Dogs are also required to have proof of a current rabies vaccine.
Swimming with Dogs at Texas State Parks
Parks with swimming pools, such as Abilene State Park or Balmorhea State Park will not allow dogs into the pool or the area around the pool.
Dogs are also not allowed in designated swimming areas in lakes. This includes both swimming in the water and the beach area.
Some parks have water access where swimming is allowed, but it is not officially a dedicated swimming area. Dogs should be allowed to get in the water there provided there is no signage prohibiting it and the dog remains attended and on a short leash.
Even where dogs are permitted to swim, it might not always be a good idea. There are some safety considerations to be aware of when having your dog swim in a state park.
Sometimes there are animals such as alligators or snakes that live in the water or shoreline that could be dangerous for your dog. There can also be sharp items in the water such as concrete, broken glass, fishing hooks, or shells that could cut a dog’s paws. Certain parks also have issues with amoebas or bacteria in the water which could make a dog seriously ill.
Dogs in Buildings at Texas State Parks
Dogs are not allowed inside any buildings in Texas state parks. This includes visitor centers, park stores, and bathrooms. Dogs are also not allowed inside any of the buildings available to the public for rent such as cabins, lodges, or group halls.
Different parks have different rules about if dogs are allowed to be tied up or put in kennels on the porch or areas around a cabin. Many parks do not allow dogs to be near the cabins at all, and some will consider this leaving a dog unattended.
Some parks allow for tents and RVs to camp in the area around a cabin. Generally these parks will allow dogs to be inside the tents or RVs.
Camping with Dogs at Texas State Parks
Dogs are welcome at almost all campsites in the parks. They are not allowed inside of cabins, screened shelters, or bathrooms.
Hiking with Dogs in Texas State Parks
Wanting to take your best friend on a hike? There are hundreds of hiking trails that allow dogs.
Make sure you clean up after your dog, and have them on a leash that is less than six feet long.
Remember to bring your own dog waste bags, most of the parks do not provide them. Some of the parks have dog waste stations near the trailheads, but the majority do not.