National Forests · SC

Dogs in Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests

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

These two South Carolina forests pair the coastal Francis Marion near Charleston with the Piedmont and mountain Sumter, home to the Chattooga Wild and Scenic River, and dogs are welcome on a leash.

Dogs are welcome on most trails across both forests, including segments of the Palmetto Trail and the Chattooga Trail along the river in the Andrew Pickens district. Keep dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet with a collar and current tags, and pick up after them. Some rental cabins do not allow dogs.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs are welcome on most trails across both forests, including segments of the Palmetto Trail and the Chattooga Trail along the river in the Andrew Pickens district. Keep dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet with a collar and current tags, and pick up after them. Some rental cabins do not allow dogs.

Where dogs are not allowed

Some areas close to dogs in spring to protect threatened and endangered species.

Seasonal closures

Spring closures for threatened and endangered species can keep dogs out of certain areas.

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 Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests?

These two South Carolina forests pair the coastal Francis Marion near Charleston with the Piedmont and mountain Sumter, home to the Chattooga Wild and Scenic River, and dogs are welcome on a leash. Dogs are welcome on most trails across both forests, including segments of the Palmetto Trail and the Chattooga Trail along the river in the Andrew Pickens district. Keep dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet with a collar and current tags, and pick up after them. Some rental cabins do not allow dogs.

What is the leash rule at Francis Marion and Sumter 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.

Are there seasonal closures for dogs at Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests?

Spring closures for threatened and endangered species can keep dogs out of certain areas.

Where are dogs not allowed at Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests?

Some areas close to dogs in spring to protect threatened and endangered species.

Are service animals allowed at Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests?

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