Massachusetts · Massachusetts State Parks (DCR)

Dogs at Salisbury Beach State Reservation

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

Partly. Dogs are banned from the ocean beach in summer but allowed leashed on the riverside beach year-round.

Leashed dogs are barred from the main ocean beach April 1 through September 15; the Merrimack River-side beach and trails allow leashed dogs year-round.

Where dogs are allowed

Leashed dogs are barred from the main ocean beach April 1 through September 15; the Merrimack River-side beach and trails allow leashed dogs year-round.

Where dogs are not allowed

Ocean beach, April 1 through September 15 (except service animals); campground at all times.

Good to know

6-foot leash maximum. Off-season (Sept 16-Mar 31) the ocean beach also allows leashed dogs.

Leash rule

6 feet maximum. Retractable leashes are often not allowed.

Service animals

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

Official source
Massachusetts State Parks (DCR)
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Last verified 2026-07-09
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Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Salisbury Beach State Reservation?

Partly. Dogs are banned from the ocean beach in summer but allowed leashed on the riverside beach year-round. Leashed dogs are barred from the main ocean beach April 1 through September 15; the Merrimack River-side beach and trails allow leashed dogs year-round.

What is the leash rule at Salisbury Beach State Reservation?

6 feet maximum. Retractable leashes are often not allowed.

Where are dogs not allowed at Salisbury Beach State Reservation?

Ocean beach, April 1 through September 15 (except service animals); campground at all times.

Are service animals allowed at Salisbury Beach State Reservation?

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