National Forest · NM

Dogs in Lincoln National Forest

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

Dogs are welcome across Lincoln National Forest, the 1.1-million-acre home of Smokey Bear that spans the Sacramento, Guadalupe, and Capitan mountain ranges in southeastern New Mexico.

Keep your dog leashed in developed areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads. On general forest land and trails, from desert country up to the high peaks, there is no statewide leash law but your dog must be under control. Bear pepper spray is recommended for hikers here.

Where dogs are allowed

Keep your dog leashed in developed areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads. On general forest land and trails, from desert country up to the high peaks, there is no statewide leash law but your dog must be under control. Bear pepper spray is recommended for hikers here.

Seasonal closures

Fire restrictions and temporary area and trail closures are common in dry months, so check current orders before you go with a dog.

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 Lincoln National Forest?

Dogs are welcome across Lincoln National Forest, the 1.1-million-acre home of Smokey Bear that spans the Sacramento, Guadalupe, and Capitan mountain ranges in southeastern New Mexico. Keep your dog leashed in developed areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads. On general forest land and trails, from desert country up to the high peaks, there is no statewide leash law but your dog must be under control. Bear pepper spray is recommended for hikers here.

What is the leash rule at Lincoln 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.

Are there seasonal closures for dogs at Lincoln National Forest?

Fire restrictions and temporary area and trail closures are common in dry months, so check current orders before you go with a dog.

Are service animals allowed at Lincoln National Forest?

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