Pet Policy

Welcome to our pet-friendly state park! We understand pets are family members too, and we're delighted to host you and your pet. For the safety and enjoyment of all of our guests and employees, this policy shall apply.

Pet Requirements

• Maximum two (2) pets per accommodation

• Weight limit: 80 pounds per pet

• Proof of current vaccinations, including rabies, to be verified and documentation shall be provided upon request.

• Must be free of fleas/ticks

• Must be well-mannered and non-aggressive. We reserve the right to require removal of any pet displaying dangerous or disruptive behavior.

Acceptable Pets

• Domesticated dogs and cats

• Domesticated birds in appropriate travel carriers

• Small aquarium fish in secure, portable tanks

• We define “domesticated” as animals typically kept as household companions that are well-socialized.

Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)

• Service animals are always welcome and are exempt from pet fees.

• Emotion Support Animals (ESAs) are welcome but are not exempt from this policy.

Room Guidelines

• To ensure the safety of all guests, staff, contractors, and pets, we require that dogs and cats never be left unattended in your room or cabin.

• Pets are NOT allowed on furniture or beds.

• Pets must not be disruptive to other guests.

Unattended Pets

• Pets must never be left alone in guest accommodations.

• Violation of this policy may result in immediate removal of guest and pet.

• Guests cannot use “Do Not Disturb” signs to hide unattended pets.

• If staff discover an unattended pet, they will immediately intervene.

Pet Fee

• A non-refundable fee of $50 per accommodation for guests traveling with up to two (2) pets. This fee covers additional services required for pet-friendly accommodations.

• A valid credit card must be kept on file.

Damages

• The guest assumes full financial responsibility for any damages caused by their pet.

• Any such charges will be assessed at the actual cost of replacing damaged items, which may include but are not limited to:

  • Furniture repair or replacement

  • Carpet and floor restoration

  • Bedding replacement

  • Additional deep cleaning requirements

• Any such damages will be documented, photographed, and charged to the guest’s method of payment on file.

Undisclosed Pets

• Guests who do not disclose pets or who violate any portion of Parks Pet Policy will be subject to the following:

• Undisclosed Pet Fee: $150 per incident

  • This fee will be immediately charged to the method of payment which the guest has on file.

  • Any undisclosed pet fee will be charged in addition to standard pet fee and any damage or cleaning charges.

Emergency Intervention

• If a pet appears to be in distress or danger, park staff are authorized, but not obligated to, to do any of the following:

  • Enter the guest room, cabin, or cottage

  • Contact local animal control

  • Arrange emergency veterinary care

  • Charge all associated costs to the guest’s account

Trail & Outdoor Access

• Pets must be leashed on all permitted trails

• Pets are NOT allowed on: Trails within State Nature Preserves which include some trails at John James Audubon State Park, Natural Bridge, Cumberland Falls, Carter Caves, Pine Mountain, and Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Parks

• Look for posted signs regarding trail restrictions

• Leashed pets are welcome in campgrounds

Pet Cleanup:

• Pet owners are required to clean up after pets immediately. This includes disposing of waste in provided receptacles.

General Rules

• Pets must be leashed in all public areas

• No pets allowed in indoor restaurants / dining areas / meeting rooms

• Noise complaints will result in required pet removal

• Two Emergency contacts must be listed

We thank you for following these guidelines to keep Kentucky State Parks enjoyable for all visitors — both two- and four-legged!

For more information, or to confirm pet accommodations, please contact  your selected Kentucky State Park.