Dogs at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Find out where dogs are allowed, where they are prohibited, what the leash rules are, and how to visit safely with your pup.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Dog Policy
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park allows dogs only in limited developed areas. Pets are welcome on certain roads, parking areas, and at Nāmakanipaio Campground, but they are prohibited on all frontcountry and backcountry trails and in undeveloped areas.
The park's Bark Ranger guidance asks visitors to bag and remove dog waste, always leash dogs, respect wildlife such as nēnē, and stay only in places where pets are permitted. Volcanic terrain can be sharp, hot, and exposed, so plan short outings and carry plenty of water.
Last updated: 2026-03-24
Dog-Friendly Trails
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park does not allow dogs on its hiking trails. The dog-friendly options below are real park roads, developed walks, and roadside routes where pets are permitted under the park's official pet policy.
Crater Rim Drive (vehicle-open sections)
Easy roadside walking on paved road shoulders and developed pullouts where vehicles are allowed. Distance varies by section; choose a short out-and-back stroll that fits your dog and conditions.
Crater Rim Drive, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, HI
Visit WebsiteChain of Craters Road to Puʻuloa Petroglyphs area
Easy to moderate roadside outing with scenic pullouts along the paved road; distance varies, with the drive extending roughly 19 miles one way to the coast. Dogs may accompany you along the road corridor down to the Puʻuloa Petroglyphs area, but not on the Puʻuloa trail itself.
Chain of Craters Road, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, HI
Visit WebsiteMauna Loa Road
Easy roadside walk on a paved park road through lava landscapes and forest edge. Distance is flexible; many visitors choose short out-and-back walks from pullouts or picnic areas.
Mauna Loa Road, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, HI
Visit WebsiteHighway 11 through the park
Easy roadside walking in developed areas adjacent to Highway 11. Distance varies; best for brief leash walks and potty breaks rather than long hikes.
Hawaii Belt Road / Highway 11, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, HI
Visit WebsiteNāmakanipaio Campground roads and developed areas
Easy campground walking on internal roads and developed campground areas. Distance varies by loop and campsite location; suitable for short, low-key walks.
Nāmakanipaio Campground, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, HI
Visit WebsiteKīlauea Military Camp paved roads and picnic area access
Easy walking on paved roads, parking areas, and the picnic area up to the park ball field gate. Distance varies and is best for short strolls in developed areas.
Kīlauea Military Camp, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, HI
Visit WebsiteTips for Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with Your Dog
Keep your visit focused on the park's developed dog-allowed areas and do not take your dog onto any trail, lava field, or wilderness route. Bring more water than you think you need, because volcanic landscapes can be hot, dry, windy, and exposed with very little shade. Check pavement and dark lava surfaces with your hand before walking, since they can become dangerously hot for paws. Pack waste bags and remove all pet waste. Watch closely for wildlife, especially nēnē and other native species, and give them plenty of space. Never leave your dog unattended in a vehicle, and plan shorter outings if your dog is sensitive to heat, rough surfaces, or strong sulfur odors near volcanic areas.
Nearby Dog-Friendly Destinations
Volcano
About 3 milesThe closest town to the park, with lodging, cafés, and easy access to the entrance.
Hilo
About 30 milesA larger East Hawaiʻi base with pet-friendly stays, restaurants, and services.
Pāhala
About 25 milesA small town southwest of the park that works well for quieter Big Island road trips.
Mountain View
About 18 milesA convenient inland stop with vacation rentals and access to Highway 11.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on trails at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
No. Dogs are prohibited on all frontcountry and backcountry trails and in all undeveloped areas of the park.
Does Hawaii Volcanoes National Park require dogs to be leashed?
Yes. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet and under control at all times.
Can I bring my dog to Nāmakanipaio Campground?
Yes. Leashed pets are allowed at Nāmakanipaio Campground, but not in backcountry campgrounds such as Kulanaokuaiki.
Where can I walk my dog in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
Dogs are allowed in parking areas and surrounding curbs, on Crater Rim Drive where vehicles are allowed, on Chain of Craters Road down to Puʻuloa Petroglyphs, on Mauna Loa Road, on Highway 11, and in certain developed areas such as Kīlauea Military Camp and parts of the Kahuku Unit.
Can dogs go to Puʻuloa Petroglyphs?
Dogs may accompany you along Chain of Craters Road down to the Puʻuloa Petroglyphs area, but they are not allowed on the Puʻuloa Petroglyphs Trail itself.
Is there a kennel at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
No kennel is listed by the park on its official pet information page.
How much is the entrance fee for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
The standard entrance fee is $30 per private vehicle for 7 days, $25 per motorcycle, or $15 per person entering on foot or by bicycle.