Natchez Trace Parkway Dog Policy
Natchez Trace Parkway is Dog Friendly
Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic 444 mile drive through Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee. It approximately follows the historic Old Natchez Trace. Along the Parkway, there are many opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping.
Natchez Trace Parkway is dog friendly, and dogs are allowed on trail and at campgrounds while on a leash no longer than 6'. Dogs are anot allowed inside buildings. Please do not leave your dog unattended here, and make sure your pet gets plenty of water on hot days.
- Website
- https://www.nps.gov/natr/index.htm
- Pet Policy Details
- https://www.nps.gov/natr/planyourvisit/pets.htm
- BARK Ranger
- Yes []
Trail Policy
Dogs are allowed on trails while on a leash no longer than 6'. The parkway is very long, and there are a number of trails along it. The National Park Service has some lists of trails.
Campground Policy
Dogs are allowed at campgrounds while restrained or on a leash no longer than 6'. There is a limit of 2 dogs per campsite. The National Park Service site has a list of campgrounds along the parkway.
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/natr/planyourvisit/pets.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.
Please tell us if you think there’s anything we should add or change on this page.