Pets

Although we LOVE pets, there are very few options for recreating with pets at the monument. Visitors are encouraged to learn what can and cannot be done with pets before arriving on-site.

NPS Photo / Mary Lewandowski

Traveling with a pet?

There are only a few options of things to do with your pet while visiting Jewel Cave National Monument. Furthermore, the main parking lot near the visitor center offers very little shade during the summer months; when daytime temperatures reach above 65 degrees, it is not safe to leave your pet in your vehicle. Pets, more than humans, are susceptible to overheating; cracked windows provide little relief. Although most pets are social and friendly, animals may not be left tied to vehicles, trees, or other objects.









While visiting the monument, pets are permitted in the following areas on a six-foot leash and must be under the owner's control at all times. Owners must clean up after their pets and carry out any waste.

• Picnic areas near the visitor center and within the Jewel Cave Historic Area
• Pavement open to public, vehicular traffic, such as parking lots and roadways

Where are pets not permitted?

• On hiking trails and service roads
• Inside or near the visitor center
• Inside the cave
• Inside or near the historic cabin or historic cave entrance

Service Animals

To learn more about bringing a service animal to the monument, visit the Service Animals page for more detailed information. If you are visiting multiple parks, you may also be interested in reviewing service animal information within the National Park Service.

Nearby Kennels

If you are traveling with your pet, we recommend these nearby kennels rather than bringing your pet to the monument.

Custer, South Dakota ~ 20 minutes east on Highway 16

• Ruff Cutz, [phone]

• Southern Hills Animal Clinic, [phone]

• Castle Rock Boarding, [phone]

Newcastle, Wyoming ~ 30 minutes west on Highway 16

• Salt Creek Kennel, [phone]

• Ace Canine, [phone]