Missouri · Missouri State Parks

Dogs at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park

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

Partly. Dogs are welcome in most of the park but banned from the shut-ins trail itself.

Dogs are prohibited on the trail leading to the shut-ins; leashed dogs may access the river at the North and South Day-Use areas.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs are prohibited on the trail leading to the shut-ins; leashed dogs may access the river at the North and South Day-Use areas.

Where dogs are not allowed

Trail to the shut-ins.

Good to know

6-foot leash maximum in areas where dogs are allowed. This is a park-specific exception to the statewide baseline.

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
Missouri State Parks
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Last verified 2026-07-09
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Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park?

Partly. Dogs are welcome in most of the park but banned from the shut-ins trail itself. Dogs are prohibited on the trail leading to the shut-ins; leashed dogs may access the river at the North and South Day-Use areas.

What is the leash rule at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park?

6 feet maximum. Retractable leashes are often not allowed.

Where are dogs not allowed at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park?

Trail to the shut-ins.

Are service animals allowed at Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park?

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