Be a PATH Pet Ambassador

North Carolina parks, museum parks, and historic sites are exciting places for pets to visit. Sometimes these new places can be so exciting as to be overstimulating. Know before you go, and learn the B.A.R.K. principles so you and your pet can have a safe and fun visit.

Are you a B.A.R.K. Ranger? 

Tag us on social media with #NCBarkRanger for a chance to earn a free NC PATH bandana and be featured as our pet of the month! 

B.A.R.K. stands for:

  • Bag your pet’s waste
  • Always leash your pet
  • Respect wildlife
  • Know where you can go

North Carolina State Parks welcomes your pets, but please follow these rules to create a safe and enjoyable environment for you, your pet and other park visitors.

  • Pets must be on an attended leash AT ALL TIMES. The leash must be no longer than 6 feet.
     
  • Pet owners who do not have their pets on a leash will receive a fine.
     
  • You MUST pick up after your pet. Pet waste is not fertilizer and should not be left on the ground. It is toxic and harmful to plants and other animals in the park.
     
  • Pet waste can also transmit disease and puts other park visitors at risk.
     
  • Properly dispose of pet waste in garbage bins. DO NOT throw waste bags in the woods or leave them on the ground.
     
  • You must keep constant control of your pets. Unruly or aggressive pets may be asked to leave the state park.
     
  • Stay on pedestrian trails. Some areas of the park are off-limits to pets, such as bathhouses and swimming areas.
     
  • Some campgrounds allow pets. Please contact the park office prior to your visit to ensure that your pet is allowed to go camping with you. Pets must be confined to the owner's tent or vehicle overnight during quiet hours.
     
  • Pets are prohibited from entering any building.
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