Taking a strong dog to Maryland parks
The Park Service welcomes pets, but rules shift by park and area.
Statewide policy
The Maryland Park Service pet policy says pets must be leashed, may be off leash and under voice control only while swimming in designated areas or hunting with the right permit, and that owners must clean up after their pets.
Camping rules
The Assateague State Park pet camping rules require pets to be licensed and vaccinated for rabies, on a hand-held leash no longer than six feet, and well behaved. Pets tethered or confined at a campsite cannot be left unattended for more than 30 minutes.
Parks differ
The Patapsco Valley pet policy page says dogs must be on a leash at all times in the McKeldin area. Check each park's page before you go, since some day-use areas and beaches are closed to pets.
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