Dog-Friendly Poconos: 5 Best Places to Explore Near Arrowhead Lake
Updated October 31, 2026
Planning a vacation in the Pocono Mountains and don't want to leave your dog behind?
Good news! Pennsylvania's Poconos offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with your four-legged companion. From peaceful lakeside walks to wooded nature preserves and scenic river trails, the region is an excellent destination for travelers who enjoy exploring with their pets.
If you're staying in Arrowhead Lake or Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania, several beautiful outdoor destinations are within driving distance.
Here are five dog-friendly places worth exploring during your next Pocono Mountains getaway.
1. Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area — Best for a Short Nature Walk
Location: Blakeslee, PA
One of the most convenient places to explore with your dog is Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area.
This 130-acre nature preserve features approximately 2.6 miles of walking trails through peaceful forests and along Tobyhanna Creek.
The preserve offers three main trails: Creek Trail, Highland Trail, and Pine Trail.
One highlight is Tobyhanna Falls, a scenic stepped waterfall surrounded by natural woodland scenery.
The area also includes picnic facilities, making it an excellent destination for a relaxed outdoor afternoon.
Dog-friendly information: Leashed dogs are welcome, and owners must clean up after their pets. Swimming is prohibited.
Local tip: Visit during the morning for a quieter experience. Bring water for your dog and enjoy a short walk followed by a picnic.
The preserve is open daily from dawn until dusk.
Official information: Tobyhanna Township Parks and Trails. Tobyhanna Township
2. Tobyhanna State Park — Best for Lakeside Walks
Location: Tobyhanna, PA
If your dog enjoys long walks surrounded by nature, Tobyhanna State Park is an excellent choice.
The park features a beautiful 170-acre lake surrounded by forests, wetlands, and wildlife habitats.
Its popular Lakeside Trail forms a 5.1-mile loop around Tobyhanna Lake.
You don't have to complete the entire loop. Families and dog owners can enjoy shorter walks while taking in the peaceful lakeside scenery.
Pennsylvania state parks generally permit leashed pets in designated day-use areas and on trails.
However, dogs are not permitted in designated swimming areas or inside park buildings.
Local tip: Bring a collapsible water bowl and keep your dog away from wildlife. The park is especially beautiful during autumn, when colorful trees surround the lake.
Tobyhanna State Park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, although individual facilities operate seasonally.
Official information: Tobyhanna State Park. Pennsylvania.gov
3. Lehigh Gorge State Park — Best for Scenic River Walks
Location: White Haven and Jim Thorpe, PA
For visitors who enjoy longer walks, Lehigh Gorge State Park offers beautiful scenery along the Lehigh River.
The park features a former railroad corridor that has been converted into a recreational trail.
The Lehigh Gorge Trail follows approximately 26 miles of the Delaware & Lehigh Trail through the park.
Visitors can enjoy views of the river, forested mountains, rock formations, and historic railroad landscapes.
Because the trail follows an old railroad grade, many sections provide relatively gentle walking conditions compared with steeper mountain hiking trails.
Dog-friendly information: Leashed dogs are permitted in designated park areas, subject to Pennsylvania state park regulations.
Local tip: Start at the White Haven access area and enjoy a comfortable out-and-back walk. Watch for cyclists, since the trail is shared by hikers and bicyclists.
The park is open year-round, but snow and ice can affect trail conditions during winter.
Official information: Lehigh Gorge State Park Trail Guide. Pennsylvania.gov
4. Gouldsboro State Park — Best for a Peaceful Woodland Outing
Location: Gouldsboro, PA
Another enjoyable destination for dog owners is Gouldsboro State Park.
The park features a 250-acre lake and approximately 7.25 miles of hiking trails.
For a relatively easy outing, consider the Old Entrance Trail, which follows the park's original entrance route.
This 1.8-mile trail offers opportunities for wildlife watching and exploring the forest without tackling particularly steep terrain.
Visitors looking for a longer adventure can explore additional trails throughout the park.
Dog-friendly information: Pennsylvania state park rules permit leashed pets in designated day-use areas and on appropriate trails. Dogs are prohibited in swimming areas.
Local tip: Gouldsboro is a good option for visitors who prefer a quieter outdoor experience. Check trail conditions before visiting after heavy rain or snowfall.
The park is open daily throughout the year from sunrise to sunset.
Official information: Gouldsboro State Park Hiking Guide. Pennsylvania.gov
5. McDade Recreational Trail — Best for a Longer Dog-Friendly Adventure
Location: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
For travelers interested in exploring farther from Pocono Lake, the McDade Recreational Trail offers another excellent outdoor experience.
The trail follows the Delaware River through forests, fields, and historic landscapes.
Multiple trailheads allow visitors to choose shorter or longer walking routes.
Leashed dogs are permitted on much of the trail, although certain sections and beach areas have seasonal restrictions.
Important: Dogs must remain on leashes no longer than six feet. Some sections close seasonally to protect nesting wildlife.
Local tip: Check the National Park Service's current trail restrictions before choosing your route. Bring drinking water, waste bags, and appropriate footwear.
Official information: McDade Recreational Trail Guide. National Park Service
Important Pet Rules in the Pocono Mountains
Before exploring the Poconos with your dog, it's important to understand local regulations.
Pennsylvania state parks generally welcome pets in designated outdoor areas, but dogs must remain under physical control.
Dogs are not permitted in designated swimming areas, most public buildings, or areas specifically closed to pets.
Pet owners must clean up after their animals and dispose of waste properly.
Special note for Arrowhead Lake visitors: The private Arrowhead Lake community has its own regulations. Dogs must be leashed when off the owner's property, and owners must clean up after them. Pets are not permitted at community beaches, pools, playgrounds, picnic areas, or other designated recreational facilities, except where legally required accommodations apply. Arrowhead Lake PA
During fall hunting seasons, consider wearing bright orange clothing and using a brightly colored vest for your dog when walking in areas where hunting is permitted.
Where to Stay in the Poconos With Your Dog
Finding accommodations that welcome pets can make planning your vacation much easier.
Poconos Vacations offers professionally managed vacation homes in Arrowhead Lake, Pennsylvania, including selected dog-friendly properties.
Depending on the home, guests can enjoy wooded surroundings, private hot tubs, fireplaces, outdoor fire pits, and fully equipped kitchens.
Some properties welcome up to two dogs, although pet policies, restrictions, and additional fees vary by listing.
Whether you're planning a family vacation or a relaxing weekend with your four-legged companion, you can explore available homes and choose one that fits your needs.
Browse dog-friendly Pocono vacation rentals at Poconos.Vacations.
Arrowhead Lake requires advance guest registration and mandatory community fees. Outdoor swimming pools and certain amenities operate seasonally.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting the Poconos With Dogs
Are the Pocono Mountains dog-friendly?
Yes. Many parks, trails, and outdoor attractions welcome leashed dogs. However, individual properties and attractions may have different restrictions.
Can dogs swim in Arrowhead Lake?
Dogs are not permitted at community swimming beaches or designated recreational areas. Visitors should follow the Arrowhead Lake Community Association's current pet regulations.
Are dogs allowed at Tobyhanna State Park?
Yes. Leashed dogs are welcome in designated outdoor areas and on permitted trails. Dogs cannot enter designated swimming areas.
Are there dog-friendly cabins in the Poconos?
Yes. Some vacation homes in Arrowhead Lake welcome dogs. Always check the individual listing for pet restrictions, maximum number of dogs, and applicable fees.
Can I bring my dog to Pocono waterfalls?
Some waterfall trails welcome leashed dogs, but others do not. For example, the National Park Service prohibits pets at Dingmans Falls and Raymondskill Falls, apart from qualifying service animals. National Park Service
Plan Your Dog-Friendly Pocono Getaway
The Pocono Mountains offer wonderful opportunities to explore nature with your dog.
From peaceful lakeside walks to wooded trails and scenic river landscapes, there's plenty to enjoy together throughout the year.
With a little preparation and the right accommodations, your next mountain getaway can be memorable for every member of the family, including the four-legged ones.
Pet regulations and park information reviewed October 31, 2026. Rules, trail conditions, and seasonal access may change. Always confirm current restrictions before visiting.