Bennett Spring Guide
Dog-Friendly Guide to Bennett Spring
Park rules, trails to hike together and what to pack, from your dog-friendly hosts 4 minutes from the park.
Updated November 2026.
Bennett Spring State Park welcomes dogs, and so do we. The park is about 12 miles west of Lebanon on Highway 64, with trails through the woods, the clear spring branch and the Niangua River. Here's what to know before you bring your dog.
Dog rules at Bennett Spring State Park
Missouri State Parks set the same pet rules for every park, including Bennett Spring:
- Keep your dog on a leash no longer than 10 feet at all times. Portable fences and electronic collars don't count as a leash.
- Dogs aren't allowed inside park buildings or in public swimming areas and beaches.
- Pick up after your dog and put the bags in a trash can.
- Keep your dog under control and quiet, and don't leave it unattended.
Service animals assisting people with disabilities are not covered by these rules. Breaking them can mean a citation or being asked to leave the park.
Trails to hike with your dog
All five park trails are hiking-only, and leashed dogs are welcome on them. Pick one to match your dog's energy:
| Trail | Length | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Oak-Hickory | 0.3 mi loop | The shortest walk, good for a quick stretch |
| Bridge | 0.7 mi loop | Moderate |
| Whistle | 0.9 mi one way | Moderate |
| Savanna Ridge | 2.5 mi loop | Rated easy, with a connector for a shorter 2-mile loop |
| Natural Tunnel | 7.4 mi loop | The longest trail, out to the natural tunnel it's named for |
Fishing and floating with your dog
Leashed dogs can come along on park grounds, so your dog can keep you company while you fish. Keep it on a short leash and quiet around other anglers, especially on busy weekends and opening day. Planning to fish? Read our Bennett Spring trout fishing guide for seasons, tags and zones.
The park has a free concrete boat launch near Campground 1, where the spring branch meets the Niangua River. The park doesn't rent canoes or rafts, so bring your own or use a local outfitter, and ask them about bringing your dog before you book.
What to pack for your dog
- A leash 10 feet or shorter, plus a spare
- Waste bags
- Water and a bowl for the trail
- Tick prevention, and a towel for muddy paws
- Food, treats and your dog's bed or crate
- Vaccination records, just in case
Where to stay
Dog-friendly stays 4 minutes from the park
Both of our getaways welcome dogs. After a day on the trails, settle in on wooded acres with a fire pit, a porch and room to relax.
- The Lodge sleeps 8.
- The Cabin sleeps 6.
- Book both for family trips and groups of up to 14.
“Even dog bowls for my fur baby.”
“Quiet area, and very pet friendly.”
“Loved that we could bring our dog along.”
Questions about bringing your dog? Contact us before you book. Book any 2027 stay by December 31 and save 20% with code EARLYBIRD20.
Dog-friendly Bennett Spring FAQ
Are dogs allowed at Bennett Spring State Park?
Yes. Dogs are welcome on park grounds and trails on a leash no longer than 10 feet. They are not allowed inside park buildings or in public swimming areas and beaches, and you need to clean up after them.
Can I take my dog on the trails at Bennett Spring?
Yes, on a leash. The park has five hiking trails, from the 0.3-mile Oak-Hickory Trail to the 7.4-mile Natural Tunnel Trail.
Can I take my dog fishing at Bennett Spring?
Missouri State Parks rules allow leashed dogs on park grounds. Keep your dog on a short leash and under control near other anglers, and keep it quiet and out of swimming areas.
Where can I stay with my dog near Bennett Spring?
Misty Oak Getaways has two dog-friendly stays 4 minutes from the park: the Lodge, which sleeps 8, and the Cabin, which sleeps 6. Book both for up to 14 guests.
Sources: Missouri State Parks pet rules, Bennett Spring State Park map, Bennett Spring floating.