Winnie Wearing Her Bandana from the Refuge
Upper Mississippi River Dog Policy
Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge is Very Dog Friendly
Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge was established in 1924, and is a large refuge along 261 miles of the river. It's a refuge for many species of birds, fish, and other wildlife. There are many opportunities for exploring the wilderness, fishing, hunting, and more here.
Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge is very dog friendly. Dogs are required to be under your control here, and must be on a leash where signs request it.
Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge also runs the BARK Ranger Program, where you can earn a special dog bandana by learning and following responsible practices.
- Website
- https://www.fws.gov/refuge/upper-mississippi-river
- Pet Policy Details
- https://www.fws.gov/refuge/upper-mississippi-river/visit-us/rules-policies
- BARK Ranger
- Yes []
- Hunting
- Allows Hunting []
- Annual Visitors
- 3,700,000
Trail Policy
Dogs are allowed on trails, but must be under control. Dogs must also be on a leash if the trail is has signs or markers requiring a leash.
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.
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.
Please tell us if you think there’s anything we should add or change on this page.