Pets

 

Traveling with Your Companion?

Pets are welcome within Lake Mead National Recreation Area — in developed areas, on hiking trails, along many beaches, and in campgrounds and some lodging facilities, but there are rules and things to consider. Learn how to travel with your pets here at Lake Mead both safely and respectfully.

Nowadays, pets are being treated more and more like family. It only feels natural to bring your dogs and cats—with their adorable, excitable tails and natural enthusiasm—along for the adventure, as you hike and explore Lake Mead's unique desert landscapes. Trails like the Historic Railroad Trail and Owl Canyon are favorites amongst pet owners. Just be sure to bring extra water, as your companion will likely need some. Please carry and use pet waste bags to help keep our trails clean and to leave no trace.

Hiking Trails

While some pet owners may choose to leave their beloved animal boarded in a kennel or at home, many pets really love the excitement of the outdoors. Think about including your furry friend in your next camping adventure within the park. Pets are welcome at all of our campgrounds and RV Villages on Lake Mead and Lake Mohave.

Campgrounds

Service animals trained to do work or perform a task for the benefit of an individual with a disability are welcome everywhere at Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Find out more about service animals within the National Park Service.

 

Please Follow The Tenets of a Good B.A.R.K. Ranger

National parks are exciting places for pets to visit with their family while on vacation. Sometimes new places can be so exciting as to be overstimulating. Learn the B.A.R.K. principles so you and your pet can have a safe and fun visit anytime you go to a national park.

B.A.R.K. stands for:

• Bag your pet’s waste (and dispose of it properly)
• Always leash your pet (leashes must be 6 feet / 1.8 meters or shorter)
• Respect wildlife
• Know where you can go

Keep in mind that summer temperatures can be extreme, often reaching over 100F (38C) degrees. Leaving pets in a car is prohibited. Even on an 86F (20C) degree day, the temperature inside a motor vehicle can quickly reach 134-154F (57-68C) degrees. Your pet can quickly die of heat stroke in those conditions. During extreme heat, consider letting pets relax in the air conditioning at home instead.

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