National Forest · IN

Dogs in Hoosier National Forest

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

The Hoosier covers about 205,000 acres of south-central Indiana hills and includes the Charles C. Deam Wilderness and the Tipsaw Lake area. Dogs are welcome across more than 260 miles of trails.

Dogs are welcome on the forest's 260-plus miles of hiking trails and 200-plus miles of equestrian trails, and hikers can travel cross-country almost anywhere. Keep pets leashed in developed recreation areas and under control elsewhere.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs are welcome on the forest's 260-plus miles of hiking trails and 200-plus miles of equestrian trails, and hikers can travel cross-country almost anywhere. Keep pets leashed in developed recreation areas and under control elsewhere.

Where dogs are not allowed

Swim beaches and designated swimming areas, such as at Tipsaw Lake, typically bar pets.

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 Hoosier National Forest?

The Hoosier covers about 205,000 acres of south-central Indiana hills and includes the Charles C. Deam Wilderness and the Tipsaw Lake area. Dogs are welcome across more than 260 miles of trails. Dogs are welcome on the forest's 260-plus miles of hiking trails and 200-plus miles of equestrian trails, and hikers can travel cross-country almost anywhere. Keep pets leashed in developed recreation areas and under control elsewhere.

What is the leash rule at Hoosier 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.

Where are dogs not allowed at Hoosier National Forest?

Swim beaches and designated swimming areas, such as at Tipsaw Lake, typically bar pets.

Are service animals allowed at Hoosier National Forest?

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