Can I Bring My Pet to Yellowstone?

Jim Holstein |

One of the most common questions we receive about our Yellowstone guided tours is whether people are allowed to bring their pets with them into the park.

While it technically is possible to bring your dog with you to Yellowstone, it’s important to note that in most areas of most national parks, these pets are not allowed. And in the areas where they are allowed, there are some significant restrictions.

This is why we recommend leaving your dog behind if at all possible. But if for whatever reason that’s not possible, here’s an overview of what you need to know about bringing your dog into the park with you.

Restrictions

As previously mentioned, in areas where dogs are allowed, there are some stringent restrictions pet owners must follow, or else risk fines or other punishment:

  • Location: Pets are allowed in Yellowstone National Park if they stay in a car, at a front country campground or within 100 feet of parking lots or roads. Pets are not allowed in any of the hotels in the park. However, some cabins may allow pets, with an extra cleaning fee.
  • Leashes: Dogs must be kept on leashes of six feet or less.
  • Waste: Owners are required to clean up and properly dispose of all pet waste.
  • Supervision: Pets cannot be left outside unattended. While you can leave them in vehicles, this is not recommended unless they have sufficient temperature control and ventilation. Pets are also allowed to stay in tents overnight (assuming the location of the tent meets the above requirements), so long as their food and water dishes are not left out.
  • Trails: Pets are not allowed under any circumstances on boardwalks, in the backcountry or on trails. This is one of the primary reasons why it’s recommended you leave them behind.

Boarding

If you are unable to leave your pet at home for any reason, there are some boarding options at or around the park that might make a convenient option for you. There are pet boarding locations near the various entrance points that provide safe, fun environments for your dog to stay behind while you are able to explore the park uninhibited by their presence.

We recommend researching these boarding facilities in advance of your trip, because while you may be able to bring your dog into the park with you, you simply will not have the same quality of experience if you’re tied down by your dog the entire time you’re in the park. Your dog will be well cared for at any of these boarding facilities, and will almost certainly have far more fun there than if they were to come into the park with you.

Interested in learning more about some of your options for dealing with your pets during your trip to Yellowstone? We’re always happy to answer any questions you have about our Yellowstone guided tours and about what you should do with your pets when you arrive. We look forward to speaking with you soon!