Paws on the Sand

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Giant City State Park trails

Makanda, Illinois · Giant City State Park

Dogs on a leash all year

Trails among huge sandstone blocks, including the Giant City Nature Trail's 'streets' between them.

Source: Illinois DNR, Giant City State Park. Checked October 29, 2026.

Follow the signs at the trailhead: parks can close areas to dogs for wildlife.

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Giant City State Park: the rule in full

The park's visitor rules say pets must be kept on a leash at all times, and you must clean up after them.

Dog walks nearby

Nearby beaches

  • Montrose Dog BeachNo dogs midnight to 6am and 11pm to midnight, all year. Dogs allowed the rest of the time (local leash laws apply)
  • Evanston Dog BeachOff-leash dogs allowed 6am to 11pm, all year. No dogs midnight to 6am and 11pm to midnight, all year. No dogs the rest of the time