Pets

A man with a Labrador-type dog on a trail in front of a waterfall
Pets can be on trails along the Parkway, as long as they are on a leash 6' or shorter.

Image by Michael Becnel

A few simple rules and regulations:


Pets are allowed along trails and viewpoints of the Natchez Trace Parkway under the following conditions:

  • Pets must always be on a leash six feet or shorter
  • Please clean up after your pet
  • Only service animals are allowed inside Parkway buildings.
  • At campgrounds:
    • There is a maximum of two pets per site.
    • At all times, pets must be confined or under control on a leash not longer than 6 feet.
    • Pets cannot be left unattended.
For your dog's well being, please remember to carry water on hot days or long hikes. During warmer months tick repellent is highly recommended.
 
 
A large spotted dog with a BARK ranger badge and book
A Natchez Trace Parkway Bark Ranger.

NPS Photo: J Farmer

BARK Ranger!


You and your dog can work together to earn a BARK Ranger dog tag. Visit our Parkway Visitor Center at milepost 266, near Tupelo, Mississippi, or other visitor contact stations, to find out how your dog can become a BARK Ranger.
Find out more about the National Park Service BARK Ranger program.

If you would like a digital copy of our BARK Ranger booklet, email us here.
 
A teenager and a black cat on a leash at a picnic table.
Kekoa and his cat Midnight, a feline BARK Ranger, on a break from bicycling the Parkway.

Jane Farmer

Cats Who Think They are Dogs

Cats who walk trails and follow the BARK Ranger Creed, can earn a tag, too!
 

Dogs with Natchez Trace Connections

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    Last updated: January 11, 2023

    Park footer

    Contact Info

    Mailing Address:

    2680 Natchez Trace Parkway
    Tupelo, MS 38804

    Phone:

    800 305-7417
    The Parkway Visitor Center near Tupelo, MS, is open 9am-4:30pm seven days a week. The visitor center is closed Thanksgiving, December 25th and January 1st.

    Contact Us