Forest Reserve · CA

Dogs in Headwaters Forest Reserve

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

This old-growth redwood reserve near Eureka welcomes leashed dogs on its main trail. Dogs must be on leash or under voice control, and the reserve runs a B.A.R.K. Ranger program where you can take a pet etiquette pledge and get a collar tag.

Dogs are allowed only on the first 3 miles of the Elk River Trail from the north entrance. Dogs are not allowed on the South Side Trail, in order to protect water, fish, and wildlife.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs are allowed only on the first 3 miles of the Elk River Trail from the north entrance. Dogs are not allowed on the South Side Trail, in order to protect water, fish, and wildlife.

Where dogs are not allowed

The South Side Trail is closed to 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
Forest Reserve

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Headwaters Forest Reserve?

This old-growth redwood reserve near Eureka welcomes leashed dogs on its main trail. Dogs must be on leash or under voice control, and the reserve runs a B.A.R.K. Ranger program where you can take a pet etiquette pledge and get a collar tag. Dogs are allowed only on the first 3 miles of the Elk River Trail from the north entrance. Dogs are not allowed on the South Side Trail, in order to protect water, fish, and wildlife.

What is the leash rule at Headwaters Forest Reserve?

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.

Where are dogs not allowed at Headwaters Forest Reserve?

The South Side Trail is closed to dogs.

Are service animals allowed at Headwaters Forest Reserve?

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