National Forest · OR,ID

Dogs in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

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

At 2.4 million acres across northeastern Oregon and western Idaho, the Wallowa-Whitman runs from alpine peaks in the Eagle Cap Wilderness down to the depths of Hells Canyon, and dogs are welcome throughout. There is room to roam here, with four wilderness areas and ten Wild and Scenic Rivers.

Dogs can join you on trails like Main Eagle and Van Patten, in the Eagle Cap Wilderness, and across the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. Leash pets at developed sites and campgrounds, and keep them under control on general trails.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs can join you on trails like Main Eagle and Van Patten, in the Eagle Cap Wilderness, and across the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. Leash pets at developed sites and campgrounds, and keep them under control on general trails.

Seasonal closures

During fall hunting seasons across this heavily hunted forest, keep dogs close and consider blaze orange.

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 Wallowa-Whitman National Forest?

At 2.4 million acres across northeastern Oregon and western Idaho, the Wallowa-Whitman runs from alpine peaks in the Eagle Cap Wilderness down to the depths of Hells Canyon, and dogs are welcome throughout. There is room to roam here, with four wilderness areas and ten Wild and Scenic Rivers. Dogs can join you on trails like Main Eagle and Van Patten, in the Eagle Cap Wilderness, and across the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. Leash pets at developed sites and campgrounds, and keep them under control on general trails.

What is the leash rule at Wallowa-Whitman 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 Wallowa-Whitman National Forest?

During fall hunting seasons across this heavily hunted forest, keep dogs close and consider blaze orange.

Are service animals allowed at Wallowa-Whitman National Forest?

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