Pets

 
A dog in a harness on a leash sitting outside in front of the Visitor Center
A pet dog participating in the George Washington Birthplace B.A.R.K Ranger Program.

NPS Photo

Regulations for Pets in the Park

The National Park Service preserves special places for visitors and their pets to enjoy. While we welcome you to bring your furry friends, having a pet with you may limit some options for exploration in the park. For the safety of you, your pets, our farm animals, and park wildlife, please observe the following regulations:

  • Pets are not allowed within the Memorial Area, the Washington Family Burial Ground, or inside park buildings.
  • Pets must always be on a leash no longer than six feet in length.
  • Bag your pet's waste. Do not leave pet waste bags in trees, on trail posts, or discarded in the woods. If there’s no trash can immediately available, take it with you until you find one.
  • Leaving pets unattended in vehicles is strongly discouraged – especially on warm days.-
 
 

Pets are allowed in the following areas:

 
Large driftwood on the shore of the Potomac River Beach
Potomac River Beach

Tips for a safe and enjoyable visit to the Potomac River Beach

A Picnic Area and Pavillion
Picnic Area and Pavilion

Enjoy a relaxing picnic or rent a pavilion for special occasions.

A person walking their dog in a forest on a nature trail.
Hiking Trails

Discover our nature trails, where your furry companions can explore alongside you!

 


“Why are pets not allowed in the Memorial Area?”

The Memorial Area is home to livestock animals that can be sensitive to unfamiliar scents and noises our pets may introduce, which could cause distress or agitation. Additionally, any interaction between pets and livestock animals could lead to unintended confrontations. By keeping the Memorial Area pet-free, we can provide a peaceful environment that allows both visitors, pets, and farm animals to enjoy their time in the park.
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A yellow and black badge with text reading, "B.A.R.K. RANGER. George Washington Birthplace National Monument"
B.A.R.K. Ranger Badge

NPS Graphic

Become a B.A.R.K. Ranger

Grab and complete a George Washington Birthplace B.A.R.K. Ranger activity sheet at the park visitor center for your furry friend to earn a badge!

A kiosk is located outside the Visitor Center with information on how to be a B.A.R.K. Ranger and how your pet can earn their very own B.A.R.K. Ranger Badge. Additionally, there is a bowl of water at the kiosk for your pet's refreshment.

B.A.R.K. Ranger Activities
  1. Read and follow the B.A.R.K. Ranger Code.
  2. Explore areas of the park that are open to pets (listed above).
  3. Take a photo of your pet visiting the park and tag us on social media.
  4. Once you arrive at the park, find a park ranger and say the B.A.R.K. Ranger Pledge with your pet's name.
  5. Receive the George Washington Birthplace B.A.R.K. Ranger badge!

B.A.R.K. Ranger Code

Bag your pet's waste.
- Dispose of it in the trash receptacles throughout the park or take it with you.

Always leash your pet
- Leash should be six feet or less in length.

Respect wildlife
- Don't harass, chase, harm, or bark at wildlife or other people.

Know where you can go
- Outdoors: The Nature Trails, Picnic Area, and Potomac River Beach.
AIndoors: Only designated service animals are allowed inside buildings.

 

Hiking with your Pets!

Learn where you can hike with your furry friend at George Washington Birthplace National Monument! Visit Hiking for more information on the Hiking Trails.

 

Nature Trail

 
A map that shows the path of the nature trail in George Washington Birthplace National Monument
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Dancing Marsh Trail

 
A map of the Dancing Marsh Trail showing where pets are not allowed at George Washington Birthplace
*Pets are not allowed into the Memorial Area, indicated by the X's on the map. If you see split rail fencing or cross the footbridge and see buildings, you are in the Memorial Area and must turn around.

*This does not apply to
service animals.

Last updated: February 6, 2025

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1732 Popes Creek Road
Colonial Beach, VA 22443

Phone:

804 224-1732 x227

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