Pungo Unit of Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge - Pantego, NC
Pungo Unit of Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge Dog Park Guide
Located in the heart of Pantego, North Carolina, the Pungo Unit of Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge offers nature enthusiasts and dog owners a truly unique outdoor experience. While not a traditional dog park, its expansive pet-friendly trails and open spaces are perfect for dog-friendly hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying the tranquil North Carolina wetlands. Visitors frequently spot bears, otters, herons, and, during winter, flocks of tundra swans and snow geese. Remember to keep your distance from wildlife and always follow park rules to protect both pets and the natural environment.
The refuge is best suited for leashed adventures – there are no fenced dog play areas or designated off-leash zones. There is some basic shelter available at scenic overlook points, and most people explore the refuge by walking or driving through the maintained, though sometimes dusty, roads. Restroom facilities are extremely limited (porta potty only), so plan ahead. If you’re seeking a pet-friendly trail to immerse yourself and your dog in North Carolina’s diverse wildlife and scenery, this refuge is hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the refuge features pet-friendly walking and auto trails, perfect for outdoor exploration with your dog.
- Are restrooms available for owners? There are no full restroom facilities; only a porta potty is available at one overlook. Plan accordingly.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Some shade and minimal shelter may be found at overlooks, but most of the area is open and natural.
- Are there playgrounds or activities for kids nearby? The area is not recommended for children due to the presence of wildlife, such as bears and the lack of amenities.
- Is the park open year-round? The wildlife refuge is open throughout the year, though access to some roads may vary by season.
- Where is the best place to park? Parking is available at designated spots near entry points and overlooks, but facilities are limited.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Bugs can be common, especially in warmer months, so bring appropriate repellents.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the area is well known for its hiking and nature trails through the refuge.
Reviews
Great place to see wildlife, especially bears, otters, owls, and on rare occasion red wolves. Tundra swans show in winter. The roads are very well maintained but very dusty during dry spells. There are no bathrooms so plan accordingly, Plymouth is the closest clean stop. Gas stations and restaurants are 20 minutes away from the entrance. Daybreak and sunset are the best times but we’ve seen bears all hours of the day. Do not feed anything and leave no trash!
The wife and I really liked it. Needed more time but we saw one big sow with 3 cubs and another sow with 2 today. Big Herons and a few turtles. Only there for 11/2 hours.
One of my favorite places in NC. We’ve seen bears every time we visit and were lucky enough to see a red wolf print once. If you’re a nature lover I cannot recommend it enough!
The is a Wildlife Refuge. Some of the roads are closed during different seasons. There is a porta potty located at an overlook of the lake. I do not recommend this area for children. The refuge is perfect for anyone interested in seeing some wildlife. It can be hit or miss. Please remember that it is a refuge. Keep your distance from wildlife.
Most people view the refuge from their vehicle. The roads can be dry and dusty or muddy.
If you are a birder, the best time to visit is in the winter when the Snow Geese, Tundra Swans and ducks are present.
Amazing place!!!! It’s not easy to access but it worths your visits. We saw 16 bears on a single day, including mama bears and baby bears. At the bear tunnel, you will see the wild bears for sure, plenty of them. Here is also a place for endangered red wolf which is rear to be seen. However, we wait until sunset and no luck.
Summer is good time to see bears; fall and winter is good to see tons of tundra geese and snow swans.