Biscayne Dog Policy
Biscayne National Park is Somewhat Dog Friendly
This large park at the north end of the Florida Keys and south of Miami covers a large area of waters, surrounding wetlands, and shore areas. Biscayne encompasses a number of coral reefs, islands, and mangrove forests and more. Watersports including diving, snorkeling, boating, and fishing are very popular here. Most of the park is underwater, and most visitors here are on a boat.
Biscayne National Park isn't the most dog friendly of National Parks, but dogs are allowed at the developed areas of Elliott Key (including the campground), which is accessible by boat, and around the grounds at Convoy Point, which is on the mainland.
Biscayne National Park also runs the BARK Ranger Program, where you can earn a special dog tag by learning and following responsible practices (see the BARK Ranger section below).
- Website
- https://www.nps.gov/bisc/index.htm
- Pet Policy Details
- https://www.nps.gov/bisc/planyourvisit/pets.htm
- BARK Ranger
- Yes []
- Area
- 270 mi2
- Annual Visitors
- 402,770
Campground Policy
Dogs are allowed at the campground on Elliott Key when on a 6' leash. They may only be taken in developed areas of Elliott Key, and may not be left unattended.
Dogs are not allowed at the campground on Boca Chita Key, and are not allowed on boats docked at Boca Chita key.
| Campground | Dogs Allowed? | # Dog Friendly Sites | Equipment | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boca Chita Campground | No | Tent | Reservations/Info | |
| Elliot Key Campground | Yes | 66 | Tent | Reservations/Info |
| Campground details from Recreation.gov | ||||
BARK Ranger
Bark Ranger is a really great program that some National Park Service destinations run. The Bark Ranger program teaches dog owners responsible behaviors with their dogs, and in return you get a special dog tag that’s different for each park (note: some parks require you to purchase the tag at the end). You start the program by going to a park office and picking up a checklist. When you complete the checklist (see the link below for more details), you can get your special dog tag.
B.A.R.K. is an acronym for:
- B: Bag your poop
- Help keep the park clean by bagging and picking up your dog poop, and properly disposing of it. Don’t leave your bagged poop on the side of the trail, hanging from branches, or throw it into the woods. Please note dog poop is not a natural fertilizer — it can carry disease that can spread to wildlife or other dogs.
- A: Always wear a leash
- Dogs must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6'. Retractable leashes that extend beyond 6' are not allowed. Not everyone appreciates a dog running up to them, and many people are scared or allergic to dogs — a leash prevents uncomfortable situations between your dog and others. Leashes also help protect your dog from running off if anything spooks them.
- R: Respect wildlife
- Dogs can chase or scare wildlife such as birds and turtles. They can also damage nesting areas. Some parks have wildlife, such as bears, coyotes, or wolves, that can threaten your dog. Please be respectful of wildlife with your dog, and if you do encounter wildlife, keep dog at distance to protect both your dog and the wildlife.
- K: Know where to go
- Know which trails allow dogs, and which don’t. Don’t leave dogs unattended in vehicles while you go off to hike. See the link below for more details.
For more information on the Bark Ranger program, please see: https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/become-a-biscayne-b-a-r-k-ranger.htm
We also have a list of all parks that run the BARK Ranger program.
Location & Map
Have a photo of your dog here?
Note: Policies can change -- please make sure to check official dog/pet policies prior to making plans or booking travel.
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