National Forest · WV

Dogs in Monongahela National Forest

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

The Monongahela covers the high, wet Allegheny highlands of West Virginia, including the wind swept Dolly Sods Wilderness. Off leash under voice control is allowed in undeveloped areas, but this is bear country with steep terrain and fast water.

Dogs must be leashed in developed areas such as campgrounds, trailheads, and popular sites like Seneca Rocks. Outside developed areas, unless posted otherwise, dogs may be under voice control. Dolly Sods has more than 47 miles of trail following old railroad grades, with leash rules varying by trail.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs must be leashed in developed areas such as campgrounds, trailheads, and popular sites like Seneca Rocks. Outside developed areas, unless posted otherwise, dogs may be under voice control. Dolly Sods has more than 47 miles of trail following old railroad grades, with leash rules varying by trail.

Where dogs are not allowed

Dogs are not allowed in swimming areas, sanitary facilities, or public buildings.

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 Monongahela National Forest?

The Monongahela covers the high, wet Allegheny highlands of West Virginia, including the wind swept Dolly Sods Wilderness. Off leash under voice control is allowed in undeveloped areas, but this is bear country with steep terrain and fast water. Dogs must be leashed in developed areas such as campgrounds, trailheads, and popular sites like Seneca Rocks. Outside developed areas, unless posted otherwise, dogs may be under voice control. Dolly Sods has more than 47 miles of trail following old railroad grades, with leash rules varying by trail.

What is the leash rule at Monongahela 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 Monongahela National Forest?

Dogs are not allowed in swimming areas, sanitary facilities, or public buildings.

Are service animals allowed at Monongahela National Forest?

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