National Forest · AR,OK

Dogs in Ouachita National Forest

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

The Ouachita spans more than 1.8 million acres of forested ridges across Arkansas and Oklahoma, including the long Ouachita National Recreation Trail. It is a busy multi use forest, so a leash is smart when you meet other users.

On trails dogs must be under verbal or physical restraint at all times, and leashed in developed recreation sites and campgrounds. Expect to share the trail with horseback riders, mountain bikers, and off highway vehicles, so leash up around others.

Where dogs are allowed

On trails dogs must be under verbal or physical restraint at all times, and leashed in developed recreation sites and campgrounds. Expect to share the trail with horseback riders, mountain bikers, and off highway vehicles, so leash up around others.

Where dogs are not allowed

Pets other than guide dogs are not allowed in swimming areas.

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 Ouachita National Forest?

The Ouachita spans more than 1.8 million acres of forested ridges across Arkansas and Oklahoma, including the long Ouachita National Recreation Trail. It is a busy multi use forest, so a leash is smart when you meet other users. On trails dogs must be under verbal or physical restraint at all times, and leashed in developed recreation sites and campgrounds. Expect to share the trail with horseback riders, mountain bikers, and off highway vehicles, so leash up around others.

What is the leash rule at Ouachita 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 Ouachita National Forest?

Pets other than guide dogs are not allowed in swimming areas.

Are service animals allowed at Ouachita National Forest?

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