National Forest · OH

Dogs in Wayne National Forest

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

Ohio's only national forest, the Wayne covers about 244,000 acres of Appalachian foothills where dogs are welcome on its varied trail systems. With 79 miles of horse trails and the state's largest OHV trail network, it pays to know which trail you are on before bringing a pet.

Dogs can hike the forest's trails and share the horse and multi-use paths, including around Lake Vesuvius. Leash them in developed campgrounds and day-use areas, and keep them under control and clear of OHV riders on shared routes.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs can hike the forest's trails and share the horse and multi-use paths, including around Lake Vesuvius. Leash them in developed campgrounds and day-use areas, and keep them under control and clear of OHV riders on shared routes.

Seasonal closures

During Ohio's fall hunting seasons, keep dogs leashed and visible with 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 Wayne National Forest?

Ohio's only national forest, the Wayne covers about 244,000 acres of Appalachian foothills where dogs are welcome on its varied trail systems. With 79 miles of horse trails and the state's largest OHV trail network, it pays to know which trail you are on before bringing a pet. Dogs can hike the forest's trails and share the horse and multi-use paths, including around Lake Vesuvius. Leash them in developed campgrounds and day-use areas, and keep them under control and clear of OHV riders on shared routes.

What is the leash rule at Wayne 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 Wayne National Forest?

During Ohio's fall hunting seasons, keep dogs leashed and visible with blaze orange.

Are service animals allowed at Wayne National Forest?

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