Good For You, Good For Your Dog: Why Visiting a Minnesota State Park Benefits People and Their Pets

Many people are aware of research on the health and wellness benefits of owning pets. Having a dog helps people be more active, provides companionship, reduces stress and helps people be more social. The great news for pet owners is that spending time in nature with your pet can multiply these health and wellness benefits, and Minnesota state parks and trails are the perfect place to explore with your four-legged family member.

There’s a growing body of research about the benefits of spending time in nature. The American Psychological Association tells us that exposure to nature is linked to benefits like improved attention, lower stress, better mood and even increased empathy and cooperation. A study at the University of Washington shows evidence that contact with nature is associated with increased happiness, positive social interactions and a sense of meaning in life.

Outdoor activities like hiking are healthy, inexpensive and a great escape from the daily grind. Bringing along an innately curious pet will make you notice the natural world around you. The sights, sounds and smells of nature are invigorating and interesting to both people and pets. If you’re new to outdoor recreation or unsure about spending time in nature alone, the alertness and intuition of your pet can provide an added sense of security.

Here’s some more motivation to explore Minnesota with your furry friend: all Minnesota state parks and trails are pet friendly, and there are a variety of ways for you to enjoy these spectacular places with your dog or cat.

Campgrounds in Minnesota state parks are pet friendly. If you’re not into camping, there are still many reasons to visit a state park or state trail. Activities like hiking, lounging in a hammock, watching wildlife or picnicking are just a few options. Your pet will need to be leashed and supervised during your visit.

If you haven’t camped or explored a state park with your pet before, here are a few tips and tricks.

Practice before your trip

If you plan to camp and your pet is anxious in new situations, you may want to do a trial run in your backyard or a location close to home. Set up your tent, then let your pet explore it and get comfortable being inside the tent. Try walking in your neighborhood with any new equipment like leashes, collars, harnesses or packs to make sure they fit your pet comfortably.

Always keep your pet leashed and consider training

Not everyone loves your pet as much as you do, so you’ll need to be able to control your pet to avoid close contact with other visitors who may not be comfortable with your pet. After all, the outdoors is for everyone, and all visitors are looking for the same low-stress outdoor experience you are. Be sure your dog knows basic obedience skills like “come,” “sit,” and “stay.” Keeping your pet leashed and on trail also protects sensitive habitat and means your pet won’t be chasing after wildlife. Additionally, you may want to work on “leave it” to keep your pet from picking up items on the trail. Teaching “quiet” can stop barking to keep your experience in nature a peaceful one.

Consult a veterinarian

Before your visit, check in with a veterinarian to see if any precautions should be taken to ensure your pet’s safety outdoors. Make sure your pet is healthy enough for the activities you plan to do. You can also discuss vaccines or preventative medications that can protect your pet from illness-causing insects, parasites and bacteria your pet may encounter.

Pack smart

Make sure your pet has a collar with an ID tag, and a sturdy leash. Pack enough food and water for your pet. Dogs don’t sweat like humans do, so having adequate water is important to keep your dog cool on a hot day. Don’t forget poop bags, and always clean up after your pet. You might think pet waste is a natural part of the cycle of life, after all, wildlife poops in the woods. However, pets eat a different diet than the native wildlife. Pet waste adds excess nutrients to the environment that can cause problems for wildlife and even contaminate water supply.

Know where you can go

While Minnesota state parks are pet friendly, there are a couple of places you shouldn’t bring your pet. Swimming beaches aren’t open to pets, and only service animals are allowed in buildings within state parks like visitor centers, cabins and lodges.

Now, you’re ready to plan your trip to a state park or trail.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website is a great place to start planning. You’ll find lists of state parks and state trails to explore. The ParkFinder tool at mndnr.gov/parkfinder can help you find a state park that has the features and amenities you’re looking for, including accessible facilities for visitors with disabilities.

Many state parks offer naturalist programs, and some are dog friendly like the B.A.R.K. Ranger program offered at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park. These programs are free, open to both kids and adults, Event are listed online at mndnr.gov/ptcalendar.

A vehicle permit is needed for state parks. Permits can be purchased on the DNR website, using the Yodel app or in person at a state park office. The cost is $7 per day or $35 per year. To provide access to more Minnesotans, the DNR is also partnering with more than 100 public libraries throughout Minnesota to offer park permits for check out. See if your local library is participating at mndnr.gov/librarypass.

All camping and lodging in state parks requires a reservation, which can be made online at mndnr.gov/reservations or by calling 866-857-2757.