National Forest · KY

Dogs in Daniel Boone National Forest

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

Eastern Kentucky's Daniel Boone packs sandstone cliffs, over 600 miles of trail, and waterfalls like Princess Falls into 21 counties, and dogs are welcome on the trails.

Dogs are welcome on the forest's 600-plus miles of trail and at most of its 250 recreation sites, including cliffline and gorge hikes. Leash at trailheads and campgrounds and keep pets under control in the two federally designated wilderness areas.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs are welcome on the forest's 600-plus miles of trail and at most of its 250 recreation sites, including cliffline and gorge hikes. Leash at trailheads and campgrounds and keep pets under control in the two federally designated wilderness areas.

Seasonal closures

Stage 1 fire restrictions and wildfire closures can apply, including near Yahoo Falls in the Big South Fork area.

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 Forest

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Daniel Boone National Forest?

Eastern Kentucky's Daniel Boone packs sandstone cliffs, over 600 miles of trail, and waterfalls like Princess Falls into 21 counties, and dogs are welcome on the trails. Dogs are welcome on the forest's 600-plus miles of trail and at most of its 250 recreation sites, including cliffline and gorge hikes. Leash at trailheads and campgrounds and keep pets under control in the two federally designated wilderness areas.

What is the leash rule at Daniel Boone National Forest?

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 Daniel Boone National Forest?

Stage 1 fire restrictions and wildfire closures can apply, including near Yahoo Falls in the Big South Fork area.

Are service animals allowed at Daniel Boone National Forest?

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