national forest dog info

George Washington and Jefferson National Forest

Located in the states of Kentucky, Virginia and West Virginia

In the Appalachian Mountains, the highest point of the forest is Mount Rogers, also the highest point in Virginia at 5,729 ft (1,746 m) in Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. There are 230,000 acres (93,000 ha) of old-growth forest here, and the Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Trail both run through the forest.

  • Along roads
  • Hiking trails
  • Campgrounds
  • Picnic areas
  • Other developed exterior areas of the forest
  • 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
  • Saddle or pack animals are allowed in recreation sites only where authorized by posted instructions.

*Please see more details for leash info

  • Inside buildings (unless service animal)
  • On beaches or in other swimming areas (unless service animal)
  • In the spring there may be some areas closed to dogs for the protection of Threatened and Endangered Species.
  • Some cabins may not allow dogs.
  • 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
  • Venomous Snakes
  • Poisonous Plants
  • Predatory animals
  • Be aware of hunting areas
  • Ticks and biting insects
  • Do not drink from waterways
  • Bring plenty of drinking water
  • Swim safely, extreme water areas
  • Hantavirus

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.

1-888-265-0019

George Washington and Jefferson National Forest Website

George Washington and Jefferson National Forest Camping

George Washington and Jefferson National Forest Hiking

George Washington and Jefferson National Forest Volunteer

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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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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