National Monument · CA

Dogs in Fort Ord National Monument

Can I bring my dog, and on which trails?
Dog-friendly

This former Army base near Monterey is a standout for dogs, with over six miles of designated off-leash road segments. Dogs must be leashed on a 6-foot leash in parking lots, at trailheads, and anywhere signs require it.

Off-leash segments run along Guidotti, Skyline, and Oilwell roads near Badger Hills and along Engineer Canyon, Old Reservation, and Sandy Ridge roads near Creekside Terrace. Dogs must be leashed on all other routes and must stay on designated trails.

Where dogs are allowed

Off-leash segments run along Guidotti, Skyline, and Oilwell roads near Badger Hills and along Engineer Canyon, Old Reservation, and Sandy Ridge roads near Creekside Terrace. Dogs must be leashed on all other routes and must stay on designated trails.

Where dogs are not allowed

Dogs are not allowed in the Inland Range Planning Unit. Service animals are excepted.

Seasonal closures

Trails are open year-round with a mild coastal climate. Summer afternoons can be dry and warm inland, so carry water.

Leash rule

A 6-foot leash is required in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, trailheads, and picnic sites. On most of the open BLM land there is no leash law, but your dog must be under control at all times, and local field offices can set stricter rules.

Service animals

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

Official source
Bureau of Land Management
View the BLM page →
Last verified 2026-07-09
Designation
National Monument

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Fort Ord National Monument?

This former Army base near Monterey is a standout for dogs, with over six miles of designated off-leash road segments. Dogs must be leashed on a 6-foot leash in parking lots, at trailheads, and anywhere signs require it. Off-leash segments run along Guidotti, Skyline, and Oilwell roads near Badger Hills and along Engineer Canyon, Old Reservation, and Sandy Ridge roads near Creekside Terrace. Dogs must be leashed on all other routes and must stay on designated trails.

What is the leash rule at Fort Ord National Monument?

A 6-foot leash is required in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, trailheads, and picnic sites. On most of the open BLM land there is no leash law, but your dog must be under control at all times, and local field offices can set stricter rules.

Are there seasonal closures for dogs at Fort Ord National Monument?

Trails are open year-round with a mild coastal climate. Summer afternoons can be dry and warm inland, so carry water.

Where are dogs not allowed at Fort Ord National Monument?

Dogs are not allowed in the Inland Range Planning Unit. Service animals are excepted.

Are service animals allowed at Fort Ord National Monument?

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