Dogs at Sebago Lake State Park
Yes, with limits. Leashed dogs are welcome in Sebago Lake State Park's day-use area in Casco, on its trails and at its picnic sites. Dogs are not allowed in the Sebago Lake campground at any time, which makes it the only Maine state park campground that bans pets. No pets are allowed on any beach from April 1 to September 30, and the Bureau's map for the Naples-side trails says pets are not allowed there during the camping season.
Dog Rules at a Glance
Where Dogs Can Go
- Day-use trails (Casco side): yes, on a leash. This includes the Songo River Trail and the Woodlands Trail. See hiking.
- Day-use picnic sites: yes, on a leash.
- Winter trails on the Casco side: yes, on a leash. Keep your dog off the set ski track.
- Naples-side trails: on a leash outside the camping season only. The Bureau's west-side trail map says pets are not allowed there during the camping season.
Where Dogs Cannot Go
- The campground: never. The Bureau's park rules single out Sebago: "No pets are allowed in the Sebago Lake State Park campground." Its reservation guide repeats that pets are allowed at every state park campground except Sebago Lake.
- Beaches: not from April 1 to September 30.
Leash and Waste Rules
Maine's state park rules require every pet to be on a leash and under the physical control of its handler, and never left unattended, in a car or anywhere else. Pick up waste at once and carry it out. Park staff may assign pet owners a picnic site in a quieter part of the park.
A Dog-Friendly Day at the Park
Use the day-use entrance at 11 Park Access Road in Casco. Day use costs $6 for Maine residents and $8 for non-residents aged 12 and over; the Bureau charges nothing extra for a dog. Good walks for a leashed dog on that side:
- Songo River Trail, 1.5 miles: mostly flat along the river, where ducks, geese and loons feed, so keep the leash short.
- Woodlands Trail, 3 miles: through the hardwood forest, away from the beach.
- Groomed winter trails: the 3.7-mile Outer Loop and its links, with your dog off the set ski track.
Bring water and waste bags: parts of the park are carry in, carry out. See hiking and winter.
Camping With a Dog Near Sebago
The state park campground is out, so camp at a Maine state park that allows pets. The Bureau says pets are welcome at its other campgrounds, on a leash. Check that park's own rules before you book.
Dog-Friendly Hikes Nearby
- Pleasant Mountain: Loon Echo Land Trust allows dogs on a leash; carry out all waste.
- Douglas Mountain: Maine Trail Finder lists pets as not permitted on the preserve, so leave the dog home for this one.
Service Animals
The rules above are for pets. If you are bringing a service animal, call the park at (207) 693-6231 before your visit.
Dogs at Sebago Lake State Park FAQ
Are dogs allowed at Sebago Lake State Park?
Yes, on a leash, on the day-use trails and at picnic sites. They are not allowed in the campground at any time or on beaches from April 1 to September 30.
Can I bring my dog camping at Sebago Lake State Park?
No. Sebago Lake is the only Maine state park campground that does not allow pets.
Are dogs allowed on Sebago Lake State Park beaches?
Not from April 1 to September 30. Pets are banned from state park beaches in that window.
Do dogs have to be on a leash at Sebago Lake State Park?
Yes, at all times, under the handler's physical control, and never left unattended.