National Conservation Area · AZ

Dogs in Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area

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

This Arizona riparian area is genuinely dog friendly, with both the trails and campgrounds open to pets. Keep dogs under control and pack out waste along the rivers and creeks.

Trails along the Gila and San Francisco rivers and Bonita and Eagle creeks welcome dogs, and the Riverview and Owl Creek campgrounds are dog friendly too. Keep dogs leashed or closely controlled around other visitors and wildlife.

Where dogs are allowed

Trails along the Gila and San Francisco rivers and Bonita and Eagle creeks welcome dogs, and the Riverview and Owl Creek campgrounds are dog friendly too. Keep dogs leashed or closely controlled around other visitors and wildlife.

Seasonal closures

The rivers make this a green oasis, but summer is very hot. Spring and fall are the best times, and water access is a plus for dogs.

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 Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area?

This Arizona riparian area is genuinely dog friendly, with both the trails and campgrounds open to pets. Keep dogs under control and pack out waste along the rivers and creeks. Trails along the Gila and San Francisco rivers and Bonita and Eagle creeks welcome dogs, and the Riverview and Owl Creek campgrounds are dog friendly too. Keep dogs leashed or closely controlled around other visitors and wildlife.

What is the leash rule at Gila Box Riparian 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 Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area?

The rivers make this a green oasis, but summer is very hot. Spring and fall are the best times, and water access is a plus for dogs.

Are service animals allowed at Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area?

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