National Wildlife Refuge · FL

Dogs at Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge

Can I bring my dog, and on which trails?
Limited access

Leashed dogs are welcome on one trail at Loxahatchee, the Perimeter Levee Trail, but not the rest of the refuge.

Pet walking is allowed only on the Perimeter Levee Trail (6 ft leash max, 2 pets per person); it's not allowed at the visitor center, the Cypress Swamp Boardwalk, along Lee Road, or at the A, B, and C impoundments.

Where dogs are allowed

Pet walking is allowed only on the Perimeter Levee Trail (6 ft leash max, 2 pets per person); it's not allowed at the visitor center, the Cypress Swamp Boardwalk, along Lee Road, or at the A, B, and C impoundments.

Where dogs are not allowed

Visitor center, Cypress Swamp Boardwalk, Lee Road, A/B/C impoundments, tram tours

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 Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge?

Leashed dogs are welcome on one trail at Loxahatchee, the Perimeter Levee Trail, but not the rest of the refuge. Pet walking is allowed only on the Perimeter Levee Trail (6 ft leash max, 2 pets per person); it's not allowed at the visitor center, the Cypress Swamp Boardwalk, along Lee Road, or at the A, B, and C impoundments.

What is the leash rule at Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee 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 Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge?

Visitor center, Cypress Swamp Boardwalk, Lee Road, A/B/C impoundments, tram tours

Are service animals allowed at Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge?

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