Dog-Friendly Trails & Beaches on Delmarva

If your four-legged friend loves an outdoor adventure as much as you do, you’re in luck. Nothing is worse than making plans, getting your dog in the car, only to arrive and find out the spot you wanted to walk doesn’t allow dogs. We’ve rounded up a bunch of dog-friendly trails on Delmarva where you can explore together. These dog-friendly places welcome dogs and make it easy for you both to enjoy the fresh air, open space, and Delmarvalous landscapes.

Before you head out, remember to always pack water for your pup, keep them on a leash unless signage indicates otherwise, and always clean up after your dog to help keep these areas welcoming for everyone. Here are some of the best trails and beaches across Delmarva where dogs are truly part of the adventure. This list is FAR from complete though. If you want even more options, you can filter your trail search on our website by whether or not a trail is dog-friendly.

Delaware State Parks Multi-Use Beaches

Most of the multi-use beaches at Cape Henlopen and Delaware Seashore State Parks allow leashed dogs. These are primarily the beaches where surf fishing is also allowed. Dogs are restricted at guarded, swimming beaches. In addition, many of the bayside beaches also have dog restrictions so stick to the oceanside when in a Delaware park.

Grey’s Creek Nature Park

This quiet 1-mile forested loop in Bishopville, MD welcomes your furry friends. In fact, they even provide bags to make it easy and convenient to pick up after them. Learn more about Grey’s Creek Nature Park here.

Pocomoke State Forest

Most of the trails within the Pocomoke State Forest are dog-friendly. These trails tend to have little foot traffic, so if you have a reactive dog that needs to be kept at a distance from other dogs, the state forest might be a good option. Please note that some trails, such as the yellow and orange loops, are frequented by equestrian visitors.

White Marsh Park

Located near Centreville, MD, White Marsh Park has over 3 miles of trails to walk with your dog. There’s even an edible trail located at the center of the park where you can help yourself to persimmon, blueberry, and paw-paw. 

Killens Pond State Park Pondside Trail

The Pondside Trail at Killens Pond is a great 2.5-mile loop that is perfect for bringing dogs all year long. From green trees in the spring to fall foliage and freshly-fallen snow in the winter, this trail will keep you and your dog exploring throughout the year.

Tuckahoe State Park & Adkins Arboretum

The trail system at Tuckahoe State Park is one of the most expansive trail systems on Maryland’s mid shore. And lucky for dog-owners, leashed dogs are permitted on just about all of them. Adjacent to the state park is another dog-friendly site, Adkins Arboretum. You can explore the arboretum with your dog, but as always, they must be kept on a leash and remain on the marked paths.

Turner’s Creek Park

On Maryland’s upper shore, you’ll find Turner’s Creek Park to be a great place to bring dogs. This park has some short walking trails, a historic site, and a picnic pavilion. The trails also provide access to views of Turner’s Creek and the Sassafras River.

Kiptopeke State Park

For gorgeous photo ops of your dog, head to Kiptopeke State Park. The trails here welcome dogs and the Brown Pelican Trail is particularly scenic. If you want to bring your dog on the beach, stay to the south of the fishing pier, as the north side does not permit pets.

Easton Rail Trail

For something a bit more urban-feeling, the Easton Rail Trail is a good option for pups. The trail runs right through the middle of town, allowing you to make a quick stop for coffee or ice cream along the way.

Ferry Point Park

If you’re looking to spend part of your day relaxing on a bayfront beach with your furry friends, Ferry Point Park is an excellent option for dogs. Park at the visitor center near Kent Narrows and walk the short trail out to the sandy beach. Shade structures are not permitted, so you may want to avoid this park on a hot summer day.

Again, this list is far from complete. To find even more dog-friendly trails, you can always filter your trail search on our website by whether or not a trail is dog-friendly. Most places welcome dogs, but it’s important to respect the rules and be aware of restrictions. And if it’s unclear whether or not you can bring Fido, all trail description pages have a link directly to the managing agency so you can call ahead and ask! 

Happy tails and happy trails!