National River & Recreation Area · MN

Dogs in Mississippi National River & Recreation Area

Can I bring my dog, and on which trails?
Limited accessLeash: 6 feet maximum, at all times.

This is a patchwork river corridor. The NPS-managed Coldwater Spring allows leashed pets, and there are several off-leash dog parks nearby, but partner parks set their own rules.

Leashed pets are permitted at Coldwater Spring; several partner sites offer off-leash dog parks.
Photo: NPS photo/Gordon Dietzman · NPS

Where dogs are allowed

Leashed pets are permitted at Coldwater Spring; several partner sites offer off-leash dog parks.

Where dogs are banned

Partner parks and areas within the boundaries may have additional restrictions.

Leash rule

6 feet maximum, at all times.

Service animals

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

Where to go instead

Battle Creek Regional Park, Kaposia Landing, Minnehaha Regional Park, and Riverside Park all offer off-leash dog areas.

Official source
National Park Service
View the official NPS page →
Last verified 2026-07-09
Designation
National River & Recreation Area

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Mississippi National River & Recreation Area?

This is a patchwork river corridor. The NPS-managed Coldwater Spring allows leashed pets, and there are several off-leash dog parks nearby, but partner parks set their own rules. Leashed pets are permitted at Coldwater Spring; several partner sites offer off-leash dog parks.

What is the leash rule at Mississippi National River & Recreation Area?

6 feet maximum, at all times.

Where can I hike with my dog near Mississippi National River & Recreation Area?

Battle Creek Regional Park, Kaposia Landing, Minnehaha Regional Park, and Riverside Park all offer off-leash dog areas.

Are service animals allowed at Mississippi National River & Recreation Area?

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