National Forests · MI

Dogs in Huron-Manistee National Forests

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

The Huron-Manistee National Forests spread across nearly a million acres of Michigan's northern Lower Peninsula between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, and the forests keep a dedicated Canine Camper Tips page for visitors bringing dogs. Popular spots line four Wild and Scenic Rivers: the Pine, Manistee, Au Sable, and Pere Marquette.

Dogs are welcome throughout the forests, including hiking routes and the portions of the North Country National Scenic Trail that run through the area. Keep dogs leashed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads, and under control on general forest trails.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs are welcome throughout the forests, including hiking routes and the portions of the North Country National Scenic Trail that run through the area. Keep dogs leashed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads, and under control on general forest trails.

Where dogs are not allowed

Designated swim beaches and swim areas along the Great Lakes shoreline and inland lakes are typically off-limits to 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 Forests

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Huron-Manistee National Forests?

The Huron-Manistee National Forests spread across nearly a million acres of Michigan's northern Lower Peninsula between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, and the forests keep a dedicated Canine Camper Tips page for visitors bringing dogs. Popular spots line four Wild and Scenic Rivers: the Pine, Manistee, Au Sable, and Pere Marquette. Dogs are welcome throughout the forests, including hiking routes and the portions of the North Country National Scenic Trail that run through the area. Keep dogs leashed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads, and under control on general forest trails.

What is the leash rule at Huron-Manistee 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.

Where are dogs not allowed at Huron-Manistee National Forests?

Designated swim beaches and swim areas along the Great Lakes shoreline and inland lakes are typically off-limits to pets.

Are service animals allowed at Huron-Manistee National Forests?

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