Recreation Area · CA

Dogs in Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area

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

Dogs are welcome at this large off-highway-vehicle dune area, but it is a busy motorized playground. Keep your dog on a leash no longer than 6 feet, secured or under direct control at all times.

There are no marked trails, just open dunes shared with fast-moving vehicles. Unleashed dogs are regularly lost or killed by vehicles, rattlesnakes, and coyotes, so keep your dog leashed and close.

Where dogs are allowed

There are no marked trails, just open dunes shared with fast-moving vehicles. Unleashed dogs are regularly lost or killed by vehicles, rattlesnakes, and coyotes, so keep your dog leashed and close.

Seasonal closures

Summer temperatures are dangerous and the sand gets extremely hot on paws. Most visitors come in the cooler months from fall through spring.

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
Recreation Area

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area?

Dogs are welcome at this large off-highway-vehicle dune area, but it is a busy motorized playground. Keep your dog on a leash no longer than 6 feet, secured or under direct control at all times. There are no marked trails, just open dunes shared with fast-moving vehicles. Unleashed dogs are regularly lost or killed by vehicles, rattlesnakes, and coyotes, so keep your dog leashed and close.

What is the leash rule at Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation 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 Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area?

Summer temperatures are dangerous and the sand gets extremely hot on paws. Most visitors come in the cooler months from fall through spring.

Are service animals allowed at Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area?

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