dog info and rules fort mchenry national monuments

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

Located in the state of Maryland

Fort McHenry, in Baltimore, Maryland, is a Historic American coastal star-shaped fort best known for its role in the War of 1812, when it successfully defended Baltimore Harbor from an attack by the British navy from the Chesapeake Bay September 13-14, 1814. It was first built in 1798 and was used continuously by U.S. armed forces through World War I and by the Coast Guard in World War II. It was designated a national park in 1925, and in 1939 was redesignated a "National Monument and Historic Shrine,"

  • Pets are allowed outside of the historic zone, an area bounded by a split-rail fence and including and surrounding the historic Star Fort.
  • Parking areas and along paved roads
  • Picnic areas
  • Must be restrained or kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
  • Dogs must wear a collar with current tags at all times
  • Pick up after your dog at all times – Leave no trace

*Please see more details for leash info

  • Inside buildings (unless service animal)
  • Never leave your pet unattended or alone inside a vehicle
  • Never off leash – unless inside a vehicle, tent, dog crate or other portable kennel
  • Untagged dogs or dogs with uncurrent tags
  • Excessive barking

*Please see more details for leash info

  • Extreme range of weather
  • Extreme heat
  • Venomous Snakes
  • Poisonous Plants
  • Spiny and prickly plants
  • Ticks and biting insects
  • Do not drink from waterways
  • Bring plenty of drinking water
  • Swim safely, extreme water areas

Leash Laws: Most parks require dogs to be on a leash in some or all areas, however, some parks allow dogs off leash in certain locations, please consult the parks website before going off leash, Thank you!

  • Consult the park website before traveling all information is to be used as a guide.
  • Respect local wildlife.
  • Leave no trace – What you bring in, you bring out.
  • If you are visiting during the hottest months of the year, a “palm test” is recommended before walking your dog – place your hand on the pavement for a minute and see if it is comfortable there. If the pavement feels hot to your palm, it will be hot to your dog’s paws.

(410) 962-4290 x250

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine Website

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine Camping

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine Hiking

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine Volunteer

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We do our best to keep all information current and accurate - If you see an error or think we have missed something please contact us directly.

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