National Wildlife Refuge · WA

Dogs at Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge

Can I bring my dog, and on which trails?
No pets allowed

No, pets of any kind are banned anywhere in Dungeness NWR, including the Spit Trail; the adjacent (non-FWS) Dungeness Recreation Area allows leashed dogs instead.

Pets are prohibited on the Main Trail, Primitive Trail, and the full 5-mile Dungeness Spit walk to the lighthouse.

Where dogs are allowed

Pets are prohibited on the Main Trail, Primitive Trail, and the full 5-mile Dungeness Spit walk to the lighthouse.

Where dogs are not allowed

Entire refuge, all trails and the Spit.

Leash and pet rule

Pets must be leashed at all times on a national wildlife refuge, and are usually limited to designated trails, roads, and public-use areas. Many refuges close sensitive habitat to pets to protect wildlife, so check the refuge page before you go.

Service animals

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

Official source
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
View the refuge page →
Last verified 2026-07-09

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge?

No, pets of any kind are banned anywhere in Dungeness NWR, including the Spit Trail; the adjacent (non-FWS) Dungeness Recreation Area allows leashed dogs instead. Pets are prohibited on the Main Trail, Primitive Trail, and the full 5-mile Dungeness Spit walk to the lighthouse.

What is the leash rule at Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge?

Pets must be leashed at all times on a national wildlife refuge, and are usually limited to designated trails, roads, and public-use areas. Many refuges close sensitive habitat to pets to protect wildlife, so check the refuge page before you go.

Where are dogs not allowed at Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge?

Entire refuge, all trails and the Spit.

Are service animals allowed at Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge?

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