State Park Dog Rules · WA

Bringing Your Dog to Washington State Parks

The statewide pet rules, plus the Washington parks where dog access is limited or has a twist worth knowing before you drive.

Last checked October 27, 2026 · Source: Washington State Parks

Statewide rules at a glance

Maximum leash8 ft
Where dogs usually can’t goDesignated swim beaches, vacation houses
Entry feesDiscover Pass ($10/day, $45/year)

Each park can add its own limits. Read the official Washington rules ↗

Parks to know

Listed with the most restrictive rules first. Badges show where a leashed dog may go.

Deception Pass State Park

Two islands linked by iconic bridges, ocean cliffs, old-growth forest and sunsets

TrailsAllowedCampgroundAllowedBeach / swimSome areas

Leashed dogs allowed (WA max leash 8 ft). Not in tide pool areas, on designated swim beaches or anywhere in the Kukutali Preserve.

Entry
Discover Pass: $10/day or $45/year
Good time to go
May–Sep
Official park information ↗

Palouse Falls State Park Heritage Site

Washington's official state waterfall, dropping about 200 ft into a gorge

TrailsSome areasCampgroundAllowedBeach / swimNone

Leashed dogs allowed at designated viewpoints and trails only; all trails into the canyon and to the falls' base are permanently closed. No potable water.

Entry
Discover Pass: $10/day or $45/year
Good time to go
Spring (highest flow)
Official park information ↗

Cape Disappointment State Park

North Head Lighthouse and the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center where the Columbia meets the Pacific

TrailsAllowedCampgroundAllowedBeach / swimAsk the park

Dogs allowed on leash (WA max 8 ft); not on designated swim beaches. North Jetty closes Jan 2027–about Nov 2029.

Entry
Discover Pass: $10/day or $45/year
Good time to go
May–Sep (lighthouse open)
Official park information ↗

Before you go

  • Open the park’s official page on the day you leave—trails, beaches and campgrounds close for weather, construction and wildlife.
  • Carry your dog’s rabies certificate; some parks ask for proof at check-in.
  • Never leave a dog in a parked car, even for a short stop.
  • Pick up after your dog and pack the bags out.

Related on DogRoute 109

About this guide. We read each park’s official page and the state agency’s pet rules, and link both. When a park page says nothing about dogs, we apply the statewide rule and say so. This is a summary, not legal or veterinary advice—rules, fees and closures change, so confirm with the park before your trip.

Plan your stay

Book campsites on the official state system, then find dog-friendly places to stay nearby.

Pet policies at hotels and restaurants change—confirm with the property before you book.