National Forests · TX

Dogs in National Forests and Grasslands in Texas

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

The National Forests and Grasslands in Texas cover more than 675,000 acres of East Texas woods, quiet lakes, and family recreation areas where dogs are welcome. Bring a leash for developed sites and keep pets controlled on the trails.

Dogs can join you on the forest and grassland trails, including horseback and hiking routes and shorelines like Red Hill Lake. Leash them in campgrounds and day-use areas, and keep them under control on general trails.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs can join you on the forest and grassland trails, including horseback and hiking routes and shorelines like Red Hill Lake. Leash them in campgrounds and day-use areas, and keep them under control on general trails.

Where dogs are not allowed

Pets are not allowed on designated swim beaches such as the Ratcliff Recreation Area swim beach.

Seasonal closures

During fall and general hunting seasons on these public lands, keep dogs close and consider blaze orange for safety.

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 National Forests and Grasslands in Texas?

The National Forests and Grasslands in Texas cover more than 675,000 acres of East Texas woods, quiet lakes, and family recreation areas where dogs are welcome. Bring a leash for developed sites and keep pets controlled on the trails. Dogs can join you on the forest and grassland trails, including horseback and hiking routes and shorelines like Red Hill Lake. Leash them in campgrounds and day-use areas, and keep them under control on general trails.

What is the leash rule at National Forests and Grasslands in Texas?

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 National Forests and Grasslands in Texas?

During fall and general hunting seasons on these public lands, keep dogs close and consider blaze orange for safety.

Where are dogs not allowed at National Forests and Grasslands in Texas?

Pets are not allowed on designated swim beaches such as the Ratcliff Recreation Area swim beach.

Are service animals allowed at National Forests and Grasslands in Texas?

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