Dog-Friendly Park Sites in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Dog-Friendly Park Sites in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Corgi-Con returned to Ocean Beach this year for the first time since 2019.
Frank Morse / National Park Service
Take it from us: Your pup will love the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA). These parks aren’t just iconic destinations—they’re everyday spaces where the community walks, wanders, and connects with nature alongside their dogs.
Recognized as one of the most dog-friendly national park sites in the country, the GGNRA features miles of dog-accessible beaches, scenic trails, and expansive open spaces across the San Francisco Bay Area; perfect for daily outings or weekend adventures. The GGNRA is also the only National Park Service site with designated off-leash dog areas (such as Fort Funston) where responsible dog walking is permitted under voice and sight control, making it a premier destination for off-leash dog walking in Northern California.
Whether you’re planning a relaxed shoreline stroll or a more adventurous hike, there’s a dog-friendly option waiting for you.
Know Before You Go
Because the GGNRA is managed by the National Park Service and spans multiple park units across the San Francisco Bay Area, dog rules vary by location. Always check posted signs before entering any park, beach, field, or trail.
- Leashes: In most areas, dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet.
- Off-leash areas: Some locations allow dogs off-leash if they are under reliable voice and sight control. Find more info in the Frequently Asked Questions.
- Restricted areas: Certain sensitive habitats, like nesting areas for the endangered Western snowy plover, prohibit dogs entirely to protect wildlife and natural resources.
- Stay informed: Follow all site-specific regulations and seasonal closures.
Walk Your Dog Responsibly
Help keep these special places enjoyable for everyone:
- Keep your dog under control at all times. Do not leave your pet unattended.
- Pick up and pack out all pet waste.
- Prevent destructive behavior like digging.
- Keep vaccinations and licenses current for the health of your pup.
- Prevent chasing or disturbing wildlife.
- Stay on designated trails and out of restoration areas.
- Be courteous to other visitors, pets, and park staff.
By following the rules and respecting the landscapes and the natural resources therein, you help keep these special parklands healthy and thriving.
San Mateo County
Marin County
Golden Gate National Recreation Area Dog Rules & FAQs
Yes. Dogs are permitted in many areas of GGNRA under specific regulations designed to protect wildlife, natural habitats, and visitor safety. GGNRA is managed by the National Park Service, and all dog regulations are enforced under federal park guidelines.
Leash Requirements
- Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet in most areas.
- Some designated areas allow dogs under voice and sight control.
- Dogs must remain under control at all times.
Restricted Areas
- Certain beaches (like southern Stinson Beach), trails, and habitats prohibit dogs.
- Some areas may have seasonal closures to protect wildlife, like during coyote pupping season.
- Visitors must follow all posted signage.
According to the National Park Service, the GGNRA welcomes commercial dog walkers with a permit to visit the park. A Commercial Dog Walking Commericial Use Authorization (CUA) is required for any professional walking 4 to 6 dogs on GGNRA lands in San Francisco or Marin Counties. (Note: No more than six dogs can be walked in the park under a CUA). For further information about Commercial Dog Walking applications and requirements, visit the Park’s website: https://www.nps.gov/goga/planyourvisit/cdswup.htm
- Check for Trail or Park Closures
- Follow all posted regulations
- Carry water for both you and your dog
- Pack out all pet waste
- Stay on marked trails
- Respect wildlife and nesting/pupping areas
- Post a picture of your doggo on Instagram and tag us (@ParksConservancy). We love pup pics!
GGNRA is the only National Park Service site to designate certain off-leash areas under voice and sight control. Most other areas require dogs to remain on a leash. Some off-leash areas include:
- Fort Funston – Popular off-leash zone with beach and headland areas for dogs under voice and sight control.
- Crissy Field – Designated areas near the central beach and grassy airfield allow off-leash dog walking under voice and sight control.
- Ocean Beach – Dogs permitted off leash under voice control north of Stairwell 21 (check signage; snowy plover habitat restrictions apply).
- Rodeo Beach – Sections along the shoreline allow off-leash walking (voice and sight control); leashes required above dunes and in parking/picnic areas.
- Muir Beach – Sandy area from shoreline to dune crest allows off-leash walking; leashes required inland and in parking areas.
- Oakwood Valley – Certain sections north of the small cattle pond allow off-leash dogs under voice and sight control; other parts require leashes.
- Scenic coastal trails and parklands with stunning ocean views.
- Open spaces for on-leash and off-leash (voice and sight control) walking, giving dogs room to explore safely.
- Designated dog-friendly beaches and park sites for recreation near the water.
- Accessible locations across San Francisco, Marin County, and San Mateo County, making it easy for local and visiting dog owners.
- Convenient nearby pet amenities, including Pet Food Express in the Presidio near Crissy Field and East Beach.
- Balanced recreation and environmental protection, ensuring safe, scenic, and sustainable experiences for dogs and their owners.
Certain areas may have seasonal closures to protect nesting birds, wildlife, or sensitive habitats. Always check for closures before your visit.
- Know the rules—follow area-specific dog regulations and closures. Look for the trail wayfinder for more info.
- Keep your dog leashed where required to protect wildlife, other visitors, and your dog.
- Pack out all waste—bag it and take it with you or dispose in the nearest trash can! Don’t leave bags on the trail.
- Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion and protect sensitive habitats.
- Respect wildlife—keep dogs away from animals and never allow chasing or harassment.
- Yield courteously—step aside for hikers, cyclists, and horses; keep your dog under control.
- Bring enough water for your dog and avoid letting them drink from streams or marshes.
- Prevent digging or damage to plants, dunes, or cultural sites.
Service animals accompanying a person with a disability, as defined by Federal law and Department of Justice regulations (Title 28 Code of Federal Regulations § 36.104), are allowed wherever visitors or employees are allowed. For more information on the DOJ ADA Revised Service Animal Regulations, please see our Service Animals webpage:
https://www.nps.gov/goga/planyourvisit/service-animals.htm
