Home / Dog Beaches / Hammonasset Beach State Park
Dog beach · Madison, CT

Dogs at Hammonasset Beach State Park

Can I bring my dog, and where on the sand?
Limited access

Only off-season, the beach is closed to dogs from April 1 through September 29.

Leashed dogs (7-ft max leash) allowed on the beach September 30 through April 1; on-leash year-round in picnic areas.

Where dogs can go

Leashed dogs (7-ft max leash) allowed on the beach September 30 through April 1; on-leash year-round in picnic areas.

Where or when dogs are not allowed

Beach closed to dogs April 1 - September 29; campground closed to pets May 1 - Columbus Day.

Leash and beach rules

Restriction protects nesting piping plovers and least terns; official CT DEEP park page lists the exact "Sept 30 - April 1" beach window.

Service animals

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.

Official source
Madison, CT
View the official beach rules →
Last verified 2026-07-09

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Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Hammonasset Beach State Park?

Only off-season, the beach is closed to dogs from April 1 through September 29. Leashed dogs (7-ft max leash) allowed on the beach September 30 through April 1; on-leash year-round in picnic areas.

What is the dog rule at Hammonasset Beach State Park?

Restriction protects nesting piping plovers and least terns; official CT DEEP park page lists the exact "Sept 30 - April 1" beach window.

When are dogs not allowed at Hammonasset Beach State Park?

Beach closed to dogs April 1 - September 29; campground closed to pets May 1 - Columbus Day.

Are service animals allowed at Hammonasset Beach State Park?

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.