Dolly Sods Wilderness - Davis, WV
Dolly Sods Wilderness Dog-Friendly Park in Davis, West Virginia
Located in the high elevations of Davis, WV, Dolly Sods Wilderness offers a breathtaking and rugged escape for dog owners and outdoor enthusiasts. With miles of pet-friendly hiking and backpacking trails, this sprawling wilderness is ideal for those seeking dog-friendly adventures amidst vibrant foliage, stunning sunsets, and panoramic mountain vistas. While there isn’t a traditional fenced dog park, leashed dogs are welcome on the extensive trail system, which is perfect for hiking with your four-legged companion. The area is world-renowned for its fall color and unique Appalachian landscapes.
Dolly Sods is best suited for prepared adventurers—bring extra shoes for the often muddy trails and note that cell service is generally unavailable. The area is open April through mid-November, with remote but spacious campgrounds, picnic spots, and restrooms available. Water stations, parking, and picnic facilities are found at various locations, but always pack essentials for your pet since dedicated dog facilities (like water fountains or fenced areas) are not present. Explore nearby family-friendly attractions such as boulder parks, wildlife refuges, and scenic waterfalls for the full Davis, West Virginia outdoor experience.
FAQ
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs are welcome but must be kept on-leash in the wilderness areas.
- Are there restrooms available for owners? Yes, restrooms are available at campground sites and picnic areas.
- Where is the best place to park? There is plenty of parking at trailheads and campgrounds within the Dolly Sods area.
- Is the park open year-round? No, Dolly Sods Wilderness is only accessible to visitors from April to mid-November.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The park can become crowded during warmer months and weekends.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are extensive hiking and backpacking trails throughout Dolly Sods Wilderness.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Yes, trails can become muddy after rain or due to dew; extra shoes are recommended.
- Is there shade or shelter available? There are picnic pavilions and forested areas that provide shade and shelter.
Reviews
Dolly sods is a high elevation wilderness area in WV. Camping, backpacking and hiking are popular activities here.
In the early 20th century the sods were heavily logged then used as a military training ground during WWII. Though rare, unexploded ordinance may still possibly be found here.
Warmer months can be very crowded especially on weekends.
Cell service is non existent so come prepared. Weather conditions can change quickly, and as with all wilderness areas, “Leave No Trace”. Check the rules and regulations before you come. The dirt access road is rutted, bumpy, dusty, narrow and long. Most cars can make it but an SUV is preferable.
The leaves were changing color and the rocks were beautiful. Hiked Red Creek to Stonecoal to Lion’s Head and back down Rocky Point. Was over 10 miles but so worth it!
The leaves were changing color and the rocks were beautiful. Hiked Red Creek to Stonecoal to Lion’s Head and back down Rocky Point. Was over 10 miles but so worth it!
Dolly Sods is a place I will absolutely never get tired of visiting. I’ve been making routine visits here for years, and to this day the Sods never ceases to amaze me. I’ve seen some of the most impressive sunsets of my life here, hands down. I’m an elopement photographer, and when couples ask me what are the best places to elope in West Virginia, Dolly Sods is the first one I tell them about every single time!
The area is huge with miles and miles of hiking/backpacking trails. The foliage is unlike anywhere else you’ll see, the fall colors are just unreal. The best fall colors start to peak around mid September. Some of the best views are accessible even for beginner hikers! You don’t have to be a pro to enjoy the scenery.
The road to get into the wilderness area is rough gravel with potholes, but most cars can get through as long as you drive slow and carefully. It’s also important to know that it’s only accessible to visitors from April to mid November.
I seriously recommend to everyone to check it out. You won’t regret it! ❤️
Dolly Sods is a place I will absolutely never get tired of visiting. I’ve been making routine visits here for years, and to this day the Sods never ceases to amaze me. I’ve seen some of the most impressive sunsets of my life here, hands down. I’m an elopement photographer, and when couples ask me what are the best places to elope in West Virginia, Dolly Sods is the first one I tell them about every single time!
The area is huge with miles and miles of hiking/backpacking trails. The foliage is unlike anywhere else you’ll see, the fall colors are just unreal. The best fall colors start to peak around mid September. Some of the best views are accessible even for beginner hikers! You don’t have to be a pro to enjoy the scenery.
The road to get into the wilderness area is rough gravel with potholes, but most cars can get through as long as you drive slow and carefully. It’s also important to know that it’s only accessible to visitors from April to mid November.
I seriously recommend to everyone to check it out. You won’t regret it! ❤️
Bear Rocks is amazing. One of the most beautiful places on the East Coast in WV mountains.
Great trails when it’s dry. The dew alone is enough to make it muddy. Wonderful place to visit but great place to backpack if you leave it the way you found it.
Great trails when it’s dry. The dew alone is enough to make it muddy. Wonderful place to visit but great place to backpack if you leave it the way you found it.
Did a 12 mile loop and some camping. Could not ask for a more beautiful wilderness! When people say the trails are streams they aren’t exaggerating, just bring an extra pair of shoes or 2. Would go again soon, so beautiful!
Did a 12 mile loop and some camping. Could not ask for a more beautiful wilderness! When people say the trails are streams they aren’t exaggerating, just bring an extra pair of shoes or 2. Would go again soon, so beautiful!