National Forests · GA

Dogs in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests

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

Leashed dogs are welcome across these Georgia forests, including the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, but pets are barred from swimming areas and beaches.

Leashed dogs are welcome on the forests' 430 miles of trails, including the Appalachian Trail, the Cohutta Wilderness, and the paths to the north Georgia waterfalls. This is a multiple-use forest, so expect to share trails with horses, bikes, and off-road vehicles.

Where dogs are allowed

Leashed dogs are welcome on the forests' 430 miles of trails, including the Appalachian Trail, the Cohutta Wilderness, and the paths to the north Georgia waterfalls. This is a multiple-use forest, so expect to share trails with horses, bikes, and off-road vehicles.

Where dogs are not allowed

Pets are not allowed on beaches or in swimming areas unless they are service animals, for example at Lake Conasauga.

Leash rule

A 6-foot leash is required in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads. On the general forest and most trails there is no leash law, but your dog must be under control at all times.

Service animals

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

Official source
U.S. Forest Service
View the Forest Service page →
Last verified 2026-07-09
Designation
National Forests

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests?

Leashed dogs are welcome across these Georgia forests, including the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, but pets are barred from swimming areas and beaches. Leashed dogs are welcome on the forests' 430 miles of trails, including the Appalachian Trail, the Cohutta Wilderness, and the paths to the north Georgia waterfalls. This is a multiple-use forest, so expect to share trails with horses, bikes, and off-road vehicles.

What is the leash rule at Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests?

A 6-foot leash is required in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads. On the general forest and most trails there is no leash law, but your dog must be under control at all times.

Where are dogs not allowed at Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests?

Pets are not allowed on beaches or in swimming areas unless they are service animals, for example at Lake Conasauga.

Are service animals allowed at Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests?

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