National Grassland · ND,SD

Dogs in Dakota Prairie Grasslands

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

These four national grasslands across North and South Dakota offer open prairie, badlands, and buttes where leashed dogs are welcome at campgrounds and on trails.

Dogs can join you across the Little Missouri and Sheyenne grasslands, including the 13 developed campgrounds and prairie trails. Leash at developed sites and keep pets under control on the open range, where cattle graze.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs can join you across the Little Missouri and Sheyenne grasslands, including the 13 developed campgrounds and prairie trails. Leash at developed sites and keep pets under control on the open range, where cattle graze.

Where dogs are not allowed

A temporary area closure is in place on the Medora Ranger District for the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library opening.

Seasonal closures

Fire closures on the Little Missouri National Grassland can restrict access.

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 Grassland

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Dakota Prairie Grasslands?

These four national grasslands across North and South Dakota offer open prairie, badlands, and buttes where leashed dogs are welcome at campgrounds and on trails. Dogs can join you across the Little Missouri and Sheyenne grasslands, including the 13 developed campgrounds and prairie trails. Leash at developed sites and keep pets under control on the open range, where cattle graze.

What is the leash rule at Dakota Prairie Grasslands?

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.

Are there seasonal closures for dogs at Dakota Prairie Grasslands?

Fire closures on the Little Missouri National Grassland can restrict access.

Where are dogs not allowed at Dakota Prairie Grasslands?

A temporary area closure is in place on the Medora Ranger District for the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library opening.

Are service animals allowed at Dakota Prairie Grasslands?

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