Last updated: August 31, 2023
Thing to Do
Bring Your Dog to Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
Dog walking is a great way to get exercise for both you and your pet! At Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, our paved, easily accessible trails provide great pathways for easy or more strenuous walks.
Please note: Dogs are only allowed on park grounds and paved trails and must always remain on a leash. Dogs are not permitted inside the fort reconstruction or other park facilities unless they are permitted serivce animals.
Trails
Walking your dog at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is also a great way to learn about history! Each of our trails contains interpretive signs that will help you learn about the area. See a full map of our trails here (link goes to a PDF).
The BARK Rules
To make sure that everyone at the national park has a great experience, it’s important to follow the rules when you bring your dog to Fort Vancouver National HIstoric Site.
When you visit the national park with your dog, remember to BARK!
Additionally, pets should not be left unattended. Summer heat poses a threat to pets left in vehicles.
Certified guide animals are an exception to these rules and may accompany their owner to all park locations.
Please note: Dogs are only allowed on park grounds and paved trails and must always remain on a leash. Dogs are not permitted inside the fort reconstruction or other park facilities unless they are permitted serivce animals.
Trails
Walking your dog at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is also a great way to learn about history! Each of our trails contains interpretive signs that will help you learn about the area. See a full map of our trails here (link goes to a PDF).
The BARK Rules
To make sure that everyone at the national park has a great experience, it’s important to follow the rules when you bring your dog to Fort Vancouver National HIstoric Site.
When you visit the national park with your dog, remember to BARK!
- Bag your pet’s poop. Help keep your national park clean by collecting and disposing of all dog waste. Public garbage cans are located throughout the park, including at the reconstructed fort, Visitor Center, and Pearson Air Museum.
- Always keep your pet on a leash. For the safety and comfort of all the park’s visitors, dogs must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet. We know that sometimes Fido likes to run free, but keeping dogs on leashes will also protect them from joggers, bicyclists, and other dogs. For a list of Clark County dog parks, including off-leash dog parks, click here.
- Respect wildlife. Though we are an urban park, Fort Vancouver can be home to migrating birds, rabbits, and other wildlife. Pets can harass or harm wildlife by making noise or scaring wildlife away. Please keep your dog at a respectful distance from any animals you may encounter.
- Know where you can go. Pets are not allowed inside park facilities, including the reconstructed Fort Vancouver, the Visitor Center, and Pearson Air Museum. However, the national park is home to many great, paved trails that dogs (and their humans) love! Learn more about pet-friendly trails at Fort Vancouver here. Pets on leashes are also welcome on the Great Meadow, which is a wonderful spot for a picnic or a family gathering!
Additionally, pets should not be left unattended. Summer heat poses a threat to pets left in vehicles.
Certified guide animals are an exception to these rules and may accompany their owner to all park locations.
Details
Duration
15-90 Minutes
Some trails at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site are short and can be walked fairly quickly; others are longer and more rigorous. Refer to the trail map link for more information.
Activity
Hiking
Age(s)
All ages.
Pets Allowed
Yes with Restrictions
Pets are allowed throughout the site, except inside the reconstructed Fort Vancouver stockade, inside Pearson Air Museum, and inside the Visitor Center. Certified service animals are an exception to this rule.
Activity Fee
No
A fee is required to enter the reconstructed Fort Vancouver. However, this is not an area where pet dogs are allowed.
Location
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Day, Dawn, Dusk
Accessibility Information
The park features five "Level 1" and "Level 2" trails that are wheelchair accessible. For full information on trail accessibility, refer to this trail map (link goes to a PDF).