Pets in Virginia State Parks

One of the great things about Virginia State Parks is that you can bring your four-legged loved ones along.

Visiting Virginia State Parks with your pet

At Virginia State Parks, we know that family adventures often include your four‑legged companions. Whether you’re hiking, camping or enjoying a sunny afternoon at your favorite park, we’re happy to welcome pets that are well behaved and safely under your control.

Pets vs. service animals

Pets are domesticated animals kept for companionship.

Service animals, as defined by the ADA, are dogs individually trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities. Service animals are allowed anywhere the public is normally permitted.

Where pets are allowed

Pets are welcome in most outdoor areas of our parks.
For everyone’s comfort and safety, pets are not permitted in:

• Public buildings
• Food service areas
• Designated swimming areas
• Pets are allowed at False Cape State Park, however they are not permitted access through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
• Yurts

Park pet etiquette

To keep our parks enjoyable for all visitors, please follow these guidelines:

• Pets must be under control
  Keep pets leashed or confined at all times. Leashes may be no longer than 6 feet. Unattended or loose pets may be subject to local stray animal laws.
• Pets must be well behaved
  If a pet becomes noisy, destructive, intimidating or disruptive to wildlife or other visitors, you may be asked to leave the park. Pet owners are responsible for any damages or injuries caused by their animal.
• Pets must be vaccinated
  Please have proof of a current rabies vaccination available.
• Dispose of waste properly
  Bag pet waste and place it in a trash receptacle.

Pets in campgrounds

Pets must remain leashed or confined and attended at all times. Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., during which pets must stay inside your tent, RV or camper.

Pets in cabins

Dogs and cats are welcome in our cabins. A nightly fee applies. Guests are responsible for any pet-related damages.

Pets are not permitted in yurts.

Pet safety tips

Help keep your pet safe, happy and comfortable during your visit:

• Keep your pet cool and hydrated.
• Never leave pets unattended in vehicles or tents, even on mild days.
• Watch for signs of heat exhaustion: heavy panting, lethargy, dizziness, restlessness. If noticed, cool your pet with a damp towel or ice on the head, neck and chest.
• Check ground temperature before walking; hot surfaces can burn paws.
• Avoid leaving food or water outside overnight; these can attract wildlife such as raccoons or bears.

Fees

There is a $20 additional nightly charge per pet for cabin stays. There is no additional charge for pets in campgrounds.

We welcome all guests to enjoy our cabins comfortably. If you or a member of your party has pet allergies, please feel free to reach out to the park you plan to visit before making your reservation. Our staff will be happy to discuss the cabin cleaning procedures that we provide to ensure your stay with us is enjoyable and worry-free.

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