Buffalo River State Park

For a dog-friendly, nature getaway near the city, make your way to the Buffalo River State Park! Only 14 miles east of the Fargo-Moorhead muttropolitan area, this pawtastic site is home to one of Minnesota's finest and largest remnant prairies. Enjoy hiking, picnicking, camping, and wildlife viewing at this scenic park with your furry BFF by your side!

Explore the area with Fido by following the trails that run along the Buffalo River and into the prairie. For a pleasant hike by the water, hit the River View Trail Loop. In addition to puptastic views of the river, this 3-mile path offers opportunities to encounter deer, beavers, and various bird species. Don't miss the Bluestem Trail, either—this 2-mile loop will lead you and your pooch to the Bluestem Prairie Scientific and Natural Area, which contains more than 250 species of wildflowers and grasses, including some rare plants. To learn more about the unique history and features of the park, check out the interpretive signs on the half-mile Muskoda Trail.

Wherever your adventure takes you, keep your four-legged pal on a 6-foot leash and clean up after them at all times. Remember to bring doggie waste bags, lots of water, and a camera. Aside from the woofderful scenery, you and Fido might see (or hear) bobolinks, prairie chickens, marbled godwits, upland sandpipers, red foxes, jackrabbits, and coyotes.

After your hike, stop by the picnic area to rest your legs and refuel with a packed lunch. If you'd like to spend the night in the park, make yourselves at home in the campground, which includes 44 drive-in sites, as well as seasonal showers and flush toilets. Be sure to observe quiet hours and keep it down between 10 PM and 8 AM.

For a barking good time in northwest Minnesota, visit the Buffalo River State Park with your doggo!