Bring Your Dog to Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

Dog walking is a great way to get exercise for both you and your pet! At Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, our paved, easily accessible trails provide great pathways for easy or more strenuous walks. Please note: Dogs are only allowed on park grounds and paved trails and must always remain on a leash. Dogs are not permitted inside the fort reconstruction or other park facilities unless they are permitted serivce animals. Trails Walking your dog at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is also a great way to learn about history! Each of our trails contains interpretive signs that will help you learn about the area. See a full map of our trails here (link goes to a PDF). The BARK Rules To make sure that everyone at the national park has a great experience, it’s important to follow the rules when you bring your dog to Fort Vancouver National HIstoric Site. When you visit the national park with your dog, remember to BARK! Bag your pet’s poop. Help keep your national park clean by collecting and disposing of all dog waste. Public garbage cans are located throughout the park, including at the reconstructed fort, Visitor Center, and Pearson Air Museum. Always keep your pet on a leash. For the safety and comfort of all the park’s visitors, dogs must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet. We know that sometimes Fido likes to run free, but keeping dogs on leashes will also protect them from joggers, bicyclists, and other dogs. For a list of Clark County dog parks, including off-leash dog parks, click here. Respect wildlife. Though we are an urban park, Fort Vancouver can be home to migrating birds, rabbits, and other wildlife. Pets can harass or harm wildlife by making noise or scaring wildlife away. Please keep your dog at a respectful distance from any animals you may encounter. Know where you can go. Pets are not allowed inside park facilities, including the reconstructed Fort Vancouver, the Visitor Center, and Pearson Air Museum. However, the national park is home to many great, paved trails that dogs (and their humans) love! Learn more about pet-friendly trails at Fort Vancouver here. Pets on leashes are also welcome on the Great Meadow, which is a wonderful spot for a picnic or a family gathering! Additionally, pets should not be left unattended. Summer heat poses a threat to pets left in vehicles. Certified guide animals are an exception to these rules and may accompany their owner to all park locations.