Taking a strong dog to Pennsylvania state parks

The DCNR Pets in Parks page says state parks welcome pets in day-use areas, designated sites in campgrounds, designated cabins, camping cottages and yurts, and all areas not otherwise closed to pets. It also says a pet may not be tied to trees or porches or anchored to the ground, and that a pet must not be a vicious or dangerous animal, such as one with a history of attacking without provocation.

Regulations for state forests, summarized in 17 Pa. Code 21.106, allow a pet in picnic areas if it is on a leash of no more than six feet, is attended and under physical control, and does not behave in a way that may disturb or intimidate another person. DCNR's park guidance for outdoor dogs uses the same six-foot figure for state parks.

• Bring a fixed-length leash, not a retractable one.
• Do not leave a pet unattended at a campsite.
• Ask the park office about cabin rules and extra fees.
• Keep food indoors so rodents and wildlife stay away.

Pennsylvania park rules put dangerous-history animals outside the welcome. A dog that is steady around hikers and other pets keeps every future park option open.