State Park Dog Rules · CO
Bringing Your Dog to Colorado State Parks
The statewide pet rules, plus the Colorado parks where dog access is limited or has a twist worth knowing before you drive.
Last checked October 27, 2026 · Source: Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Statewide rules at a glance
Each park can add its own limits. Read the official Colorado rules ↗
Parks to know
Listed with the most restrictive rules first. Badges show where a leashed dog may go.
Roxborough State Park
Dramatic red-rock fins and wildlife on the edge of the Denver metro area
The park's pet policy says no pets, including dogs, anywhere in the park (service animals excepted). One summary box on the same page still lists leashed dogs—we follow the written policy.
- Entry
- Daily vehicle pass $10–$12 (CO plates); $4 walk-in
- Good time to go
- Spring and fall
Cherry Creek State Park
An 880-acre reservoir in the Denver metro area for boating, fishing and trails—plus one of the metro's largest dog off-leash areas
Leashed dogs allowed; designated dog off-leash area with a $3 daily pass (one handler, up to three dogs). The park page doesn't say whether dogs may use the swim beach—ask before you go.
- Entry
- Daily vehicle pass $10–$12 (CO plates) + $1 water basin fee; off-leash pass $3/day
- Good time to go
- Spring–fall
Eldorado Canyon State Park
A world-famous rock-climbing canyon with 500+ technical routes, creekside picnicking and hiking near Boulder
Leashed dogs allowed; keep them under control at all times. Inner canyon fills early—weekend entry may be refused at capacity.
- Entry
- Daily vehicle pass $10–$12 (CO plates); free timed-entry reservation for the inner canyon on weekends and summer holidays, May 1–Oct 1
- Good time to go
- Weekdays, spring and fall
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.