Wander with Your Pup at Thousand Springs State Park
Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the various units of Thousand Springs State Park, including Billingsley Creek, Box Canyon, Malad Gorge, Ritter Island, and more. These areas offer short scenic walks, picnic spots, and the chance to soak in spring water. Box Canyon is especially beautiful—with a trail ending near water, perfect for a splash on warm day BringFidoWikipedia. Remember to bring lots of water for the humans on the trip, the trail can get very hot in the summer!
Paddle with Your Pooch to Blue Heart Springs
For true adventure, consider kayaking along the Snake River to Blue Heart Springs — a heart-shaped, crystal-blue cove that’s only reachable by water. Dogs are allowed in kayaks, as long as you bring a leash and ideally a canine life jacket. The water stays around 58 °F. Brisk, but beautiful for a cautious dip.
Explore Wildlife Areas with Your Leash On
- Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge welcomes dogs on its hiking trails—just keep them leashed and under control U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
- Nearby conservation lands like the Billingsley Creek and Hagerman Wildlife Management Areas offer quiet trails with opportunities to spot birds and shoreline wildlife—from waterfowl to raptors.
Dos and Don’ts with Your Pet
- Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on most trails or inside buildings at the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument to preserve the park’s sensitive fossil resources National Park Service. That said, the area around the visitor center and paved areas that are accessible.
- Animals are not allowed at the three hot springs in the area. Miracle Hot Springs, 1000 Spring Resort and Banbury Hot Springs allow pets in their camping and adjacent areas, but do not let you keep them in your vehicle or near the springs themselves.
- Most restaurants in Hagerman are not pet friendly, but there are a few that offer outside seating where pets can join. The Snake River Grill has limited seating outside, but welcomes well behaved pups to join their owners for a delicious meal. The River Boat also has some picnic tables outside.
Don’t let this deter you! We have a new pet sitting service that will help you check everything off your bucketlist. Goodnight Animal Care is right around the corner in Buhl, Idaho. They have excellent reviews and a steady group of local dogs to care for. We are very excited for this partnership that helps guests and their pets stay happy and comfortable during their stay! Book through our reservation system or directly with them.
Stay and Camp with Your Pup
- Hagerman Valley Inn is always pet-friendly—allowing three pets per room (for a nominal fee). We also have a large grassy area and pet baggies for a clean and safe place for them to stretch their legs.
- If you prefer camping, options like Hagerman Homebase and Hagerman RV Village listed on Hipcamp are pet-friendly and well situated for adventures Hipcamp.
Furry-Friendly Tips
- Come prepared with plenty of water for both you and your pup—as Idaho summers can be dry.
- Leash up—even in open landscapes. Wildlife such as coyotes or snakes may be nearby Visit Southern Idaho.
- Clean up after your pet—protecting these pristine areas ensures we can all keep bringing our pups along.
Sample Itinerary: A Day in Hagerman with Your Pup
| Time | Activity |
| Morning | Start with a leash walk through Thousand Springs—maybe at Box Canyon or a shaded picnic at Ritter Island. |
| Midday | Hit the river—kayak (with pup!) toward Blue Heart Springs or explore the trails at Hagerman Wildlife Refuge. |
| Afternoon | For fossil fans, visit Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument while Goodnight Animal Care keeps Fido company. |
| Evening | Let Goodnight Animal Care keep them a little longer for an amazing dinner at one of Hagerman’s great restaurants and a soak at a hot spring. They’ll keep your pet happy and entertained, while you enjoy the best of the evening. |
Final Thoughts
Hagerman, Idaho has a great balance between natural wonders and pet-friendly recreation. Whether you’re trekking through waterfalls, paddling to hidden springs, or here to see the stars, your canine companion is in for an adventure. With a little planning—remembering leashes, water, and all of your pet sitting needs handled—Hagerman becomes the perfect backdrop for shared exploration.
