State Park Dog Rules · FL

Bringing Your Dog to Florida State Parks

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

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

Statewide rules at a glance

Maximum leash6 ft
Where dogs usually can’t goBeaches, boardwalks, playgrounds, bathing areas, cabins, buildings; some parks ban pets entirely
Entry feesPer vehicle

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

Parks to know

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

Ichetucknee Springs State Park

Tubing the 6-mile spring-fed Ichetucknee River; eight major springs at 72°F year-round

TrailsAllowedCampgroundNoneBeach / swimNot allowed

Florida rules bar pets from bathing areas, so no dogs in the river/tubing. 6 ft leash elsewhere.

Entry
$6 per vehicle
Good time to go
Late spring–summer for tubing; cooler months for paddling
Official park information ↗

Honeymoon Island State Park

4+ miles of beach, a virgin slash pine forest trail, ospreys and eagles; ferry to Caladesi Island

TrailsAllowedCampgroundNoneBeach / swimSome areas

Dogs allowed only in marked areas, including the designated Pet Beach (one of few Pinellas County beaches open to pets). 6 ft leash.

Entry
$8 per vehicle
Good time to go
Oct–Apr (cooler months)
Official park information ↗

Myakka River State Park

Florida's first state wild and scenic river, prairies and wetlands, the Canopy Walkway and alligators

TrailsAllowedCampgroundAllowedBeach / swimNone

Florida rules: 6 ft leash; no pets on boardwalks, beaches, playgrounds, in cabins or buildings. Bring water (park drinking water notice since Oct 2025).

Entry
$6 per vehicle
Good time to go
Dec–Apr (dry season)
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.