Planning a wilderness weekend in beautiful British Columbia with your pup in tow? Make sure you check guidelines for where your dog can accompany you before you head out. Dogs are allowed in a lot of Provincial Parks and on some hiking trails, but in most cases they are required to be on leash. Depending on the park you’re headed to, picnic areas, beaches and park buildings may not be open to pets. In some cases, busy or difficult hiking trails (such as the Grouse Grind) don’t allow dogs.
Parks with Designated Dog Areas on Pawsphere Map
The province of BC has several Provincial Parks with off-leash or swimming areas for dogs. Use the Pawsphere map to find a provincial park of interest to learn more about the designated dog area. In most parks, the descriptions will confirm that:
- Dogs must be on leash at all times except in designated areas
- Dogs are not allowed in park buildings or beach areas
- Look for signs to indicate where your dog can be off leash
- Ask a park attendant for details about designated dog location if you are unsure
- You are responsible for your dog’s control and behaviour, and must dispose of their excrement
Checking the provincial park regulations before you head out with your dog will ensure that you can have a great time with each other, without disrupting people who prefer to be in a dog-free area. If you can’t find the BC Provincial Park you’re looking for on the Pawsphere map, it means that the park doesn’t have any off-leash or swimming areas for your dog. You can probably still visit that park with your dog, but will need to keep them on leash while you explore. If you’re interested in a park without a designated dog area, confirm the rules around dogs by checking the “Pets on Leash” symbol on the specific park page at the BC Parks website.