National Forest · LA

Dogs in Kisatchie National Forest

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

Dogs are welcome across Louisiana's only national forest, from the 8,700-acre Kisatchie Hills Wilderness to the shores of Kincaid Lake. Keep your dog leashed and under control in developed spots like the Longleaf Vista Recreation Area.

Dogs can join you on trails throughout the five ranger districts, including the 26-mile Wild Azalea National Recreation Trail, the Backbone Trail into Kisatchie Hills Wilderness, and the Caroline Dormon Trail. A 6-foot leash is required in campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs can join you on trails throughout the five ranger districts, including the 26-mile Wild Azalea National Recreation Trail, the Backbone Trail into Kisatchie Hills Wilderness, and the Caroline Dormon Trail. A 6-foot leash is required in campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads.

Where dogs are not allowed

Keep dogs out of designated swim areas such as the swimming spots at Stuart Lake and along Kisatchie Bayou.

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 Kisatchie National Forest?

Dogs are welcome across Louisiana's only national forest, from the 8,700-acre Kisatchie Hills Wilderness to the shores of Kincaid Lake. Keep your dog leashed and under control in developed spots like the Longleaf Vista Recreation Area. Dogs can join you on trails throughout the five ranger districts, including the 26-mile Wild Azalea National Recreation Trail, the Backbone Trail into Kisatchie Hills Wilderness, and the Caroline Dormon Trail. A 6-foot leash is required in campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads.

What is the leash rule at Kisatchie 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 Kisatchie National Forest?

Keep dogs out of designated swim areas such as the swimming spots at Stuart Lake and along Kisatchie Bayou.

Are service animals allowed at Kisatchie National Forest?

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