Leesylvania State Park

Explore the National Historic Landmark where Native Americans once lived, and historic figures like Captain John Smith visited at the Leesylvania State Park, located along the Potomac River. The park has over 500 acres for you and your pooch to explore. Your pup is allowed throughout the park as long as your dog is on a leash no longer than six feet.

The Leesylvania State Park features five trails for you and Fluffy to travel that range in difficulty from easy to moderate, and the distance of the trails vary from approximately a half mile to almost two miles. Two of the trails, the Potomac Heritage (white) and the Potomac (yellow), are also trails for bike riding, so be careful when on those trails. 

The Potomac Trail is also handicap accessible, and the Bushey Point Trail (BPT) (green) is partially handicap accessible. There are several parking lots throughout Leesylvania State Park, so you can map out your trip and choose the parking lot closest to your trail. 

Be sure when hiking that you bring enough water for you and your pup and that you bring some dog poop bags to pick up after him on the trails. The park also has a store called Breakwater Store, which sells food, water, and souvenirs. Remember, your pup cannot enter buildings or be left unattended, so you should only visit this store if you have a friend who can stay outside and watch your dog while you browse.

Leesylvania State Park also has campsites. The conditions are primitive and it is tents-only. Reservations are required. If you're camping, make sure you never leave your pooch unattended and that you clean up immediately after him. Wherever you are in the park, do not allow your dog to swim or enter any of the buildings, like bathrooms and park offices. Make sure your doggie is up-to-date on vaccinations, especially rabies vaccination.