T.O. Fuller Dog Policy
T.O. Fuller State Park is Dog Friendly
T.O. Fuller State Park, established in 1938 as the first state park for African Americans east of the Mississippi and renamed in 1942 for educator and civic leader Dr. Thomas O. Fuller, spans 1,138 acres in southern Memphis. Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the park preserves its historical ties to the civil rights movement and features the Chucalissa Indian Village, a prehistoric site discovered during a 1940 excavation. With diverse habitats, hiking trails, a nature center, sports facilities, and family-friendly amenities, the park offers a serene escape just miles from Graceland and downtown Memphis.
T.O. Fuller State Park is dog friendly. Dogs are allowed in most areas while on a leash. Dogs are not allowed in buildings or in the pool, however.
T.O. Fuller State Park also runs the BARK Ranger Program, where you can earn a special dog tag by learning and following responsible practices (see the BARK Ranger section below).
- Website
- https://tnstateparks.com/parks/t-o-fuller
- BARK Ranger
- Yes []
BARK Ranger
Bark Ranger is a really great program that some National Park Service destinations run. The Bark Ranger program teaches dog owners responsible behaviors with their dogs, and in return you get a special dog tag that’s different for each park (note: some parks require you to purchase the tag at the end). You start the program by going to a park office and picking up a checklist. When you complete the checklist (see the link below for more details), you can get your special dog tag.
B.A.R.K. is an acronym for:
- B: Bag your poop
- Help keep the park clean by bagging and picking up your dog poop, and properly disposing of it. Don’t leave your bagged poop on the side of the trail, hanging from branches, or throw it into the woods. Please note dog poop is not a natural fertilizer — it can carry disease that can spread to wildlife or other dogs.
- A: Always wear a leash
- Dogs must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6'. Retractable leashes that extend beyond 6' are not allowed. Not everyone appreciates a dog running up to them, and many people are scared or allergic to dogs — a leash prevents uncomfortable situations between your dog and others. Leashes also help protect your dog from running off if anything spooks them.
- R: Respect wildlife
- Dogs can chase or scare wildlife such as birds and turtles. They can also damage nesting areas. Some parks have wildlife, such as bears, coyotes, or wolves, that can threaten your dog. Please be respectful of wildlife with your dog, and if you do encounter wildlife, keep dog at distance to protect both your dog and the wildlife.
- K: Know where to go
- Know which trails allow dogs, and which don’t. Don’t leave dogs unattended in vehicles while you go off to hike. See the link below for more details.
We also have a list of all parks that run the BARK Ranger program.
Location & Map
Have a photo of your dog here?
Note: Policies can change -- please make sure to check official dog/pet policies prior to making plans or booking travel.
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