National Forest · OR

Dogs in Deschutes National Forest

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

Central Oregon's Deschutes runs from the Cascade lakes to Newberry's caldera, and dogs can join most of it across nearly 1.6 million acres.

Dogs are welcome on trails across the forest, from the Deschutes and Metolius rivers to the Cascade Lakes and the Three Sisters, Mount Washington, and Mount Jefferson wilderness areas, where wilderness permits are required. Leash at campgrounds and trailheads.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs are welcome on trails across the forest, from the Deschutes and Metolius rivers to the Cascade Lakes and the Three Sisters, Mount Washington, and Mount Jefferson wilderness areas, where wilderness permits are required. Leash at campgrounds and trailheads.

Seasonal closures

Winter range closures protect deer and elk in the cold months, and the West Bend and Cabin Butte areas have current closures.

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 Deschutes National Forest?

Central Oregon's Deschutes runs from the Cascade lakes to Newberry's caldera, and dogs can join most of it across nearly 1.6 million acres. Dogs are welcome on trails across the forest, from the Deschutes and Metolius rivers to the Cascade Lakes and the Three Sisters, Mount Washington, and Mount Jefferson wilderness areas, where wilderness permits are required. Leash at campgrounds and trailheads.

What is the leash rule at Deschutes 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 Deschutes National Forest?

Winter range closures protect deer and elk in the cold months, and the West Bend and Cabin Butte areas have current closures.

Are service animals allowed at Deschutes National Forest?

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