Bark in the Park with Man's Best Friend

Leash up your four-legged friends to explore Georgia’s State Parks this summer. Kickstart the adventure on a hiking trail, camp under the stars, and even join a dog-walking quest. No matter what type of adventure you seek with your pet, Georgia’s State Parks guarantees a tail-wagging time.

• New for 2021– Park goers and pups will soon have the option to book one Fido-friendly yurt at Fort Yargo State Park — the first of its kind to be piloted by Georgia State Parks in 2021. Additionally, those seeking a home base that allows furry guests will find even more pet-friendly cabins coming online for the New Year. For more information, visit GaStateParks.org.
• Tails on Trails Club – Dogs need exercise too, so leash up Fido and lace up your hiking boots. When you join this dog-walking quest, you will receive a t-shirt for yourself and a matching bandana for your pet. Finish 12 of the suggested 42 hikes and be rewarded with bragging rights and a certificate of completion. For club information, visit GaStateParks.org/TailsOnTrails.
• Hiking & Sniffing Trails – Whether you’re walking a Greyhound or a Basset Hound, you’ll find the perfect outing together. Almost all Georgia State Parks welcome leashed pets on hiking trails. Popular parks include Don Carter State Park on Lake Lanier, Red Top Mountain State Park on Lake Allatoona and Crooked River State Park in St. Marys. Find a trail near you on GaStateParks.org/DogWalking.
• Canine Camping – On the hunt for pet-friendly campsites? More than 40 Georgia State Parks have campgrounds that welcome dogs of all breeds and sizes with no extra pet fee. A few scenic choices include Black Rock Mountain State Park near Clayton, Chattahoochee Bend State Park near Newnan, or Magnolia Springs State Park near Millen. For a list of pet-friendly campsites, visit GaStateParks.org/Camping.
• Dog-Friendly Cabins – If you prefer the comforts of home, book one of Georgia State Parks’ dog-friendly cottages. These fully furnished cabins allow for spending the night in the heart of the parks, with hiking, boating, fishing, and more just outside your door. Reservations are required and there is a pet fee (two dog maximum). Good choices for these accommodations include Mistletoe State Park near Augusta, Seminole State Park in Bainbridge and Fort Mountain State Park near Chatsworth. Learn more at GaStateParks.org/Cottages and GaStateParks.org/ParkRules.