Dogs at Death Valley National Park
What’s allowed, where dogs can go, and how to visit safely in one of the hottest parks in the U.S.
Death Valley National Park Dog Policy
Death Valley allows leashed pets only in developed areas and on roads. Dogs are not allowed on park trails or in wilderness, and heat is a major safety concern for much of the year.
NPS says leashed pets are permitted in developed areas such as paved roads, unpaved roads, parking lots, campgrounds, and outside federal buildings. The park strongly advises against bringing pets from late spring through early fall because extreme heat can be deadly. Pet owners must bag and dispose of waste promptly, keep pets restrained at all times, and never leave food or water bowls outside at campsites.
Last updated: 2026-03-25
Dog-Friendly Trails
Death Valley does not allow dogs on park hiking trails, but NPS does allow leashed pets on roads and in developed areas. The options below are real places NPS specifically identifies as appropriate places to walk a dog near popular attractions.
Devil’s Golf Course Road
Easy roadside walk in a developed area near Badwater. Distance varies, but many visitors keep it to a short out-and-back stroll from the parking area. Best for a brief, flat walk rather than a hike.
Devil’s Golf Course Road, Death Valley National Park, CA
Visit WebsiteWest Side Road
Easy to moderate road walk depending on how far you go. This long unpaved road offers flexible out-and-back mileage on generally flat desert terrain, with difficulty increasing mainly because of heat and exposure.
West Side Road, Death Valley National Park, CA
Visit Website20 Mule Team Canyon
About 2.7 miles point-to-point if walked end to end; generally moderate because of uneven dirt road surface, sun exposure, and rolling terrain. NPS lists this as an appropriate place to walk your dog near Zabriskie Point.
Twenty Mule Team Canyon Road, Death Valley National Park, CA
Visit WebsiteCottonwood-Marble Access Road
Easy to moderate road walk with flexible distance depending on turnaround point. Expect a rougher desert road surface and no shade; difficulty depends on distance and conditions rather than steep climbing.
Cottonwood Canyon area, Death Valley National Park, CA
Visit WebsiteTips for Visiting Death Valley National Park with Your Dog
Plan dog visits for the coolest part of the day and avoid late spring through early fall whenever possible. Death Valley is one of the hottest places on Earth, and NPS specifically warns that pets should never be left in a vehicle. Bring far more water than you think you need, plus a collapsible bowl, waste bags, and paw protection for hot pavement or gravel. Stick to developed areas and roads only, since dogs are not allowed on trails or in wilderness. Keep your leash at 6 feet or shorter, clean up waste promptly, and do not leave food or water bowls outside at camp. Watch for wildlife, sharp salt formations, cactus, and rough road surfaces that can injure paws. If your itinerary includes long hikes or indoor stops, it is usually better to leave your dog at home rather than risk heat stress.
Nearby Dog-Friendly Destinations
Pahrump
About 60 miles east of Furnace CreekA practical base with pet-friendly lodging, restaurants, and services on the Nevada side of the park.
Beatty
About 45 miles east of the parkA common gateway town for east-side access with dog-friendly motel options and road-trip amenities.
Lone Pine
About 100 miles west of the parkA popular stop on the west side with mountain views, pet-friendly stays, and access to public lands outside the park.
Shoshone
About 60 miles southeast of Furnace CreekA small desert town useful for fuel, food, and a quieter base near the park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on trails in Death Valley National Park?
No. Pets are not allowed on park trails, including the paved trail to Zabriskie Point. Dogs are limited to roads, campgrounds, parking lots, and other developed areas.
Does Death Valley require dogs to be on a leash?
Yes. Dogs must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
Can dogs stay in Death Valley campgrounds?
Yes. Pets are allowed in all park campgrounds, but they must be leashed, attended, and limited to four pets per campsite.
Can I leave my dog in the car while I sightsee?
No. NPS warns never to leave pets in a vehicle, and park regulations prohibit leaving a pet unattended in a vehicle when heat conditions pose a significant risk.
Are there any dog-friendly walks near major viewpoints?
Yes. NPS specifically points visitors with pets toward developed-area options such as Devil’s Golf Course Road, West Side Road, 20 Mule Team Canyon, and Cottonwood-Marble Access Road.
Is there a kennel at Death Valley National Park?
NPS does not list an in-park kennel on the official pet policy page.
Are dogs allowed in park lodges?
Some in-park lodging is pet-friendly. NPS says Stovepipe Wells Village and Panamint Springs Resort allow pets for an extra fee, while only service animals are allowed in guest rooms at The Oasis at Death Valley.