National Conservation Area · NM

Dogs in Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area

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

Leashed dogs are welcome across this New Mexico conservation area's surface trails. Keep pets on a 6-foot leash with current tags. The caves themselves are not open to pets.

About 100 miles of multi-use trails are open to hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and leashed dogs can join you on them. Keep dogs out of the cave system.

Where dogs are allowed

About 100 miles of multi-use trails are open to hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and leashed dogs can join you on them. Keep dogs out of the cave system.

Where dogs are not allowed

The cave system, which is closed to pets and largely restricted to permitted access.

Seasonal closures

The high country can be hot in summer and cold in winter. Carry water for your dog on the open trails.

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 Conservation Area

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area?

Leashed dogs are welcome across this New Mexico conservation area's surface trails. Keep pets on a 6-foot leash with current tags. The caves themselves are not open to pets. About 100 miles of multi-use trails are open to hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and leashed dogs can join you on them. Keep dogs out of the cave system.

What is the leash rule at Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area?

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 Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area?

The high country can be hot in summer and cold in winter. Carry water for your dog on the open trails.

Where are dogs not allowed at Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area?

The cave system, which is closed to pets and largely restricted to permitted access.

Are service animals allowed at Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area?

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