National Forests · FL

Dogs in National Forests in Florida

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

The three national forests in Florida, Ocala, Osceola, and Apalachicola, cover 1.2 million acres of wetlands, springs, and pine, with more than 1,400 miles of trail open to dogs.

Dogs are welcome on trails across all three forests, including Florida National Scenic Trail segments, and at most of the 118 developed recreation sites. Leash at campgrounds and day-use areas and keep pets under control in the designated wilderness.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs are welcome on trails across all three forests, including Florida National Scenic Trail segments, and at most of the 118 developed recreation sites. Leash at campgrounds and day-use areas and keep pets under control in the designated wilderness.

Where dogs are not allowed

Developed swimming areas at Ocala's popular springs, such as Salt Springs, Juniper, Alexander, and Silver Glen, do not allow pets in the water.

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 National Forests in Florida?

The three national forests in Florida, Ocala, Osceola, and Apalachicola, cover 1.2 million acres of wetlands, springs, and pine, with more than 1,400 miles of trail open to dogs. Dogs are welcome on trails across all three forests, including Florida National Scenic Trail segments, and at most of the 118 developed recreation sites. Leash at campgrounds and day-use areas and keep pets under control in the designated wilderness.

What is the leash rule at National Forests in Florida?

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 National Forests in Florida?

Developed swimming areas at Ocala's popular springs, such as Salt Springs, Juniper, Alexander, and Silver Glen, do not allow pets in the water.

Are service animals allowed at National Forests in Florida?

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