Top Dog Parks in Every State
No matter where Fido is in the country, he can relax and mingle with other dogs at the local dog park. From spacious rural spots to lively urban areas, explore the best dog parks in each state where your furry friend can roam freely. Remember to bring Hide&Scent for an outdoor game of hide-and-seek!
Alabama
Beneful Dream Dog Park in Alabaster offers a top-notch experience with its synthetic turf, providing a safe play area in any season. Fido can cool down during the summer at the water splash pads, complete with colorful balls that spray water. He can also explore tunnels and hoops, and enjoy a game of fetch on the miniature football field. While your pup is busy making new friends, you can take a stroll on the paved walking path that circles the fenced park and relax on one of the benches.
Runners Up:
Alaska
Russian Jack Springs Park in Anchorage is a haven for terriers who love woodland walks. Dogs are welcome across the 300-acre park and can run off-leash in designated areas. Start your visit by discovering the winding trails that wind through the trees and finish up on the open fields
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Arizona
Smiling Dog Ranch Dog Park in Tucson is a top choice for dog lovers in Arizona. Situated within George Mehl Family Foothills Park, this fenced area is sure to delight your pup. Inside, dogs can explore concrete tunnels, relax under shady trees, and dig in the sandy ground. After some off-leash fun, enjoy a walk together on the paved trail that winds through the tranquil Rillito River Park.
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Arkansas
Looking for an adventure with your energetic pup? Visit the Off-Leash Dog Park at Lake Wilson Park in Fayetteville. Dogs can roam freely along the trails that wind through creeks and woodlands in this scenic Ozark hotspot. For a spring hike with wildflowers, this tranquil area is perfect. In the summer, dogs can cool off in the creek while exploring and discovering ancient rock formations.
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California
Your pup is welcome to join the half-million dogs that visit Point Isabel Regional Shoreline Dog Park in Richmond each year. This expansive park is one of the most impressive dog parks in the U.S., spanning over 50 acres along the eastern edge of San Francisco Bay. Explore the park's various looping trails that follow Hoffman Channel and provide stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Marin County, and Brooks Island.
Runner Up:
Colorado
Colorado is home to numerous spacious off-leash areas, but Bear Creek Dog Park in Colorado Springs stands out. Make sure to stop by this expansive, fenced park for an afternoon of fun on your next trip to the dog-friendly Colorado Rockies. The 25-acre park features grassy areas, shaded sections, and a space for small dogs, along with a creek for splashing and a pond for swimming.
Runner Up:
Connecticut
Southbury Dog Park offers a variety of features for all types of dogs, from a sprawling grassy field to a shallow river stretch perfect for an afternoon splash. This 14-acre off-leash park boasts inviting countryside, a smaller fenced area, two wooded trails, and picnic spots with tables and benches for you and your pup to enjoy after a morning of play. The park's shaded river access is shallow, making it ideal for dogs who love spending extended time in the water.
Runner Up:
Delaware
If you are passing through Delaware with your pup, be sure to visit Carousel Bark Park in Wilmington. From the park's main field atop a hillside, you can take in beautiful views of the state's countryside. Head over to the central pond to play a game of fetch in the water. The gently sloping ramp allows for easy access to the water while keeping you dry until it's time for your dog to shake off.
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Florida
Planning a summer road trip with lakes on your itinerary? Cool off in the refreshing waters at Lake Baldwin Park in Winter Park. Floridian dogs know the value of staying cool in the heat, and this popular park offers a perfect escape from the Florida sun. Make a day of it by packing a homemade meal for your pup to enjoy at the shaded picnic tables.
Runner Up:
Georgia
Newtown Dream Dog Park in Johns Creek is a fantastic one-acre park offering artificial turf for year-round fun, summer sprinklers around a spraying fire hydrant for canine enjoyment, and various bridges, tunnels, and hoops for dogs to explore. The park features separate areas for large and small dogs, and benches for people to relax while their pets play. The paved path encircling the park is shaded by purposefully planted trees, providing a cool, comfortable walk even on hot days.
Runner Up:
Hawaii
When you're exploring Oahu, don't miss out on visiting Elaine Dobashi Hawai'i Kai Dog Park in Honolulu with your furry friend. This welcoming park offers shaded areas to escape the heat and grassy spaces perfect for playing fetch. The park also features a separate area for small dogs and drinking fountains to keep your pup hydrated.
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Idaho
Bring your pup to one of Idaho's best-kept secrets, Nampa Dog Park. This spacious, fully-fenced park spans 6 acres near Nampa Municipal Airport, offering views of planes taking off and landing as your dog explores. The park features separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as walking trails, water fountains, shaded shelters, trees, and benches. The highlight of the park is a shallow, dog-friendly swimming pond.
Runner Up:
Illinois
Take a day trip with your sociable pup to Prairie Wolf Dog Park in Lake Forest. You'll soon see why Illinois is known as The Prairie State. This 44-acre countryside escape offers hiking trails through the woods, wide paths in meadows, and groomed tracks through native grasses. Practice your dog's recall in one of the small fenced training areas or test his fetch skills with a floating toy in the swimming pond.
Runner Up:
Indiana
After enjoying the pet-friendly trails at Fort Harrison State Park, take your dog to the Fort Harrison State Park Dog Park for some off-leash fun. This dog park is divided into three areas, each catering to different types of play. Platoon Run spans 3.6 acres and features large shade trees, agility equipment, a water station, benches, a fireplace for humans, and woodland areas for dogs to explore. Herrin Hill is a grassy space in the park's center, perfect for a game of fetch. Brigade Landing, the largest section at 5 acres, offers a pond, a dog beach, and a wooded adventure area. Passes are available for purchase at the park office.
Runner Up:
Iowa
Make a stop at Little Willow Dog Park in Missouri Valley near the Iowa-Nebraska border for a refreshing break. Conveniently situated near I-29 and Highway 30, this charming park, nestled in what feels like a hidden spot, has been beautifully updated with various agility equipment, including a seesaw, tunnels, weave poles, and more.
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Kansas
Heritage Park Dog Off-Leash Area is a lovely green space in Olathe where dogs of all sizes can enjoy 30 acres of fully fenced parkland. Stroll along the well-marked trails through tall grass fields and meadows, and take a break by the serene pond in the center of the park. Be sure to snap some photos of your pup by the park's hay bales
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Kentucky
When you're in Lexington, be sure to visit Masterson Station Dog Park and enjoy some off-leash fun with the local Lab crowd. This 15-acre grassy park is divided into two separate paddocks, each featuring shady areas, water fountains, a fire hydrant, and ample space for fetch and socializing. Visitors can relax on benches and chat with regulars about breed meetups, fundraisers for canine charities, and other events held at the park. Afterward, take a stroll on the paved trails that wind through the rest of Masterson Station Park.
Runner Up:
Louisiana
Spending a weekend in dog-friendly New Orleans? Check out NOLA City Bark, a 4.6-acre landscaped dog park in City Park. It offers separate areas for large and small dogs, double entrance gates, water fountains for both pets and people, shaded pavilions, an event lawn, on-site restrooms, and a short walking trail.
Runner Up:
Maine
Quarry Run Dog Park in Portland combines the security of a fenced park with the charm of a rural off-leash space. The large 7-acre park allows big dogs and adventurous small dogs to play together, while shy pups can enjoy the dedicated small dog area in the park's center. After playtime, explore the pet-friendly trails outside the fenced area. If you have more time, take a day trip to Mackworth Island to experience the stunning New England coastline.
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Maryland
Let Fido kick off the weekend at Locust Point Dog Park at Latrobe Park in Baltimore. This fully-fenced park features astroturf grass, making it a great spot for play in any season. On sunny days, dogs can climb over tree and rock formations, then cool off with a headfirst slide down the park’s water slide
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Massachusetts
Take the fun indoors at JB's Indoor Dog Park in Norwell. This indoor park provides a 3,000-square-foot space for your dog to enjoy no matter the weather. The climate-controlled play area stays warm in winter and cool in summer, offering a comfortable environment year-round. Inside, you'll find a range of toys, agility equipment, and hardwood floors for easy cleanup.
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Michigan
Orion Oaks Dog Park in Lake Orion stands out as one of Michigan's best dog parks. This 24-acre fenced area includes separate play spaces for small and large dogs, a fetch field, and access to a dog-friendly beach at Lake Sixteen. Your pup can swim, dig in the sand, or jump from the dock. A ramp is also available for dogs who prefer a gentle entry into the water. After a swim, take a stroll on the park's two trails and enjoy a shaded picnic at one of the shelters.
Runner Up:
Minnesota
Battle Creek Dog Park in Maplewood spans 35 acres, making it one of the largest fully-fenced dog parks in the country. Within the park, dogs can explore wooded trails and walking paths, relax in the shade under the tree canopy, or enjoy a swim in the large fenced pond or one of two smaller ponds nestled among rolling hills.
Runner Up:
Mississippi
Let your best friend run free at Tupelo Bark Park. This spacious, fenced park offers separate areas for small and large dogs. When the sun is out, find shade under the park's pine trees or relax on a bench beneath the canopy. If you're an Elvis Presley fan, take a short walk with your pup to the Elvis Presley Birthplace, a historic museum preserving Elvis's childhood home.
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Missouri
Nestled along the Missouri River, Platte Landing Dog Park in Parkville is an excellent spot for dogs of all sizes to play. The park features two separate fenced areas where pups can explore tunnels, conquer a wooden climbing bridge, and run freely on the grass. After playtime, take your leashed dog just beyond the park gates for a walk on the five-mile pet-friendly trail.
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Montana
Rock-climbing Rottweilers will love a trip to High Sierra Dog Park in Billings. This 7.5-acre fenced park, located near Billings Logan International Airport, is often bustling with playful dogs. Canine visitors can scramble over rocky outcrops, run across grassy areas, and rest under the park's shady trees.
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Nebraska
L.E. Ray Dog Park in Grand Island, often referred to as "Dog Island" by locals, is encircled by water that dogs can access from sandy beaches. Just a few miles off I-80 in rural Nebraska, this park is a convenient stop for Fido to stretch his legs on a road trip. Visitors can stroll around the lake on a shaded, pet-friendly path and enjoy a picnic. The park also includes a designated area where small dogs can play safely.
Runner Up:
Nevada
Link Piazzo Dog Park at Hidden Valley Regional Park in Reno offers breathtaking mountain views and ample space for dogs to play. The park features separate areas for small and large dogs to ensure safe and enjoyable play. Relax on benches or under shade structures while your pup enjoys making new furry friends. On warm days, water stations are available for thirsty dogs to stay hydrated. Leashed dogs are also welcome to explore the larger 480-acre park beyond the fenced dog park.
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New Hampshire
Head to South Mill Pond Dog Park in the historic town of Portsmouth. Dogs who love the water can take a dip in the pond from the park's fenced area, then socialize with local pups during one of the regular meetups held here. For more off-leash adventures, drive to nearby Fort Foster Park to explore its extensive trails, historic military fortifications, and sandy beaches.
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New Jersey
Experience the beauty of New Jersey's great outdoors at Timber Creek Dog Park in Blackwood. This popular dog park in rural New Jersey features 9 fenced acres within a larger 60-acre wooded area. Take your hound on sandy trails that meander through the woods and lead to a small pond, perfect for dogs to splash around due to its sloped sides and shallow waters. Leashed dogs are also welcome on the park's other trails. Additional amenities include benches, water stations, and shaded spots to unwind.
Runner Up:
New Mexico
If you're enjoying a weekend in dog-friendly Santa Fe, don't miss the opportunity to explore Frank S. Ortiz Dog Park, one of the largest dog parks in the nation. This expansive 138-acre park offers a taste of New Mexico's backcountry with miles of trails winding through arroyos and over sandy hills. Pause to take in breathtaking views of Santa Fe and the surrounding mountain ranges.
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New York
Adventurous dogs will enjoy the off-leash freedom at Normanskill Farm Dog Park in Albany. This secluded park near a creek features a large open field for fetch lovers and a wooded area for pups who enjoy exploring. Owners can relax on picnic benches under the shaded canopy and watch their furry friends run and play.
Runner Up:
North Carolina
French Broad River Dog Park in Asheville provides a perfect off-leash space for dogs of all sizes in one of the country's most pet-friendly cities. The fully fenced park features a wood chip surface for safe play and offers access to fresh water. Once outside the dog park, Fido can explore the scenic French Broad River Park, which follows the serene riverbank. Dogs who enjoy water can take a dip in the river, while those who prefer to stay dry can roam the open green space adorned with old-growth trees, a wildflower garden, paved trails, and picnic spots.
Runner Up:
North Dakota
Rainy Days Indoor Dog Park in Fargo is North Dakota's first indoor play area for dogs, offering a safe and enjoyable space for pups of all sizes to escape cold winters, hot summers, and rainy days. This canine facility features astroturf, toys, a bubble machine, tunnels, and other fun activities to keep dogs entertained for hours.
Runner Up:
Ohio
Four-legged water lovers come from far and wide to mingle with fellow aquatic pups at Bow Wow Beach in Stow. This 3-acre park features a central lake, where dogs can splash and play to their heart's content. The lake is bordered by sandy areas perfect for diggers, and dog wash stations are conveniently available for cleaning up after a day of wet and sandy fun.
Runner Up:
Oklahoma
Enjoy five acres of fun with your pooch at Edmond Dog Park at Bickham-Rudkin Park in Edmond. This top-notch park in the Sooner State offers separate areas for small and large dogs, each featuring shady trees, agility equipment, and benches for humans to relax while their pets play. Pups can also take a swim in the shallow lake from safe access points along the shoreline.
Runner Up:
- Paw Park - Oklahoma City
Oregon
Mt. Tabor Park in Portland spans nearly 200 acres, with a 4-acre fenced area where dogs of all sizes can enjoy off-leash play. This park, just west of downtown, offers pups a chance to embrace nature by climbing steep hills and exploring pine trees with other dogs. After playtime, leash up your pooch and take a walk along the park's winding trails, stopping for lunch at one of the picnic areas.
Runner Up:
- Sellwood Riverfront Park - Portland
Pennsylvania
Beau's Dream Dog Park at Buchanan Park in Lancaster is an unforgettable destination for both pups and people. In this vibrant space, dogs can race across the 40-foot rollercoaster bridge, play in separate areas for small and large breeds, and cool off at splash pads. The park's main attraction is the tennis ball tree, which launches balls in every direction, delighting dogs. Owners can watch the fun from shaded Adirondack chairs on a creatively designed deck that evokes the feel of a lakeside dock.
Runner Up:
- Wissahickon Valley Park - Philadelphia
Rhode Island
South Kingstown Dog Park is a well-kept and friendly spot located just west of the Narragansett coastline. This inviting canine haven offers lush grassy areas, climbing boulders, and sandy patches for digging, all resembling a meadow tailored for dogs. When the sun is out, pups can cool down under the shade trees along the fence line. A fire hydrant adds a touch of the city to this countryside setting. Humans can relax on comfortable benches that provide a great view of the park and all the playful action.
Runner Up:
- Roger Williams Park Dog Park - Providence
South Carolina
James Island County Park in Charleston features a fenced area with three sandy beaches on the shores of an inviting lake. If Fido prefers to stay dry, he can run around the 4-acre meadow and then take a stroll on the paved path that circles the lake.
Runner Up:
- North Charleston Wannamaker County Park - North Charleston
South Dakota
Take your four-legged family members to Family Park Dog Park to mingle with other pups on the scenic grassy hills. Situated west of Sioux Falls, this 3-acre fenced play area offers a perfect stop on a pet-friendly road trip through South Dakota. Inside the park, you and your dog will discover walkways, open space, shaded areas, drinking fountains, dog wash stations, and natural play features such as tunnels and logs for climbing. In addition, dogs are welcome in the northeastern section of Family Park, where approximately twenty-two acres of open space are frequently used for dog training.
Runner Up:
- Fort Sioux Falls Dog Park - Sioux Falls
Tennessee
The Outback at Shelby Farms Park on the outskirts of Memphis offers 100 acres of off-leash backcountry for visitors to explore. This expansive area features vast fields, winding trails, and ponds. Pups prone to muddy paws can freshen up at the wash station and hydrate at the water fountain. Leashed dogs are also welcome throughout the rest of the 4,500-acre Shelby Farms Park.
Runner Up:
- Centennial Dog Park - Nashville
Texas
ZBonz Dog Park in Fort Worth is set on the grounds of the former Z. Boaz Golf Course, and its history is evident in the rolling grassy hills and two water features. These features now serve as prime spots for games of fetch and swimming ponds where dogs can take a refreshing dip. The 10-acre park offers separate sections for small and large dogs, each equipped with agility gear, benches, and shelters.
Runner Up:
- Auditorium Shores Dog Park - Austin
Utah
Does your dog enjoy swimming in pet-friendly spots? Tanner Park in Salt Lake City features a few great swimming holes where pups can take a dip. This 10-acre park near Parley's Canyon includes a river and several nature trails where dogs can run and splash off-leash. Don't miss hiking the Parley's Historic Nature Park Trail Loop, a dog-friendly trail that passes through the dog park and is accessible for all skill levels.
Runner Up:
- Memory Grove Dog Park - Salt Lake City
Vermont
Mills Riverside Park in Jericho welcomes dogs to explore 216 acres of meadows and wooded hillsides both on and off-leash. Keep your pup leashed in the parking area and on the trails until you reach the designated off-leash area, which includes grassy fields perfect for games of fetch, woodland trails, and access to Browns River. Let your dog cool off in the shallow, refreshing water and mingle with other furry friends. Throughout the park, you can discover a historic covered bridge, enjoy a picnic in a shelter, and take in breathtaking views of Mt. Mansfield.
Runner Up:
- Burlington Dog Park - Burlington
Virginia
Your pup will enjoy a trip to Shirlington Dog Park in Arlington, a popular spot bustling with active Boxers and playful Labradors looking for new pals. The park features a quarter-mile shaded pathway, offering a serene walk for you and your dog, all while staying within the safety of a fenced, leash-free area.
Runner Up:
- Monticello Park Dog Park - Alexandria
Washington
Marymoor Park in Redmond is affectionately called “Doggy Disneyland,” and a visit to this expansive 40-acre park reveals why. It offers a mix of social spots for dogs who enjoy making new friends and quiet areas for pups who prefer some solitude. Woodchip trails wind through the park, shaded by trees and open fields. Fido can take the steps down to one of the water holes for a refreshing dip. Treat your well-behaved pup to a snack from Seattle Barkery, a food truck for dogs that frequently stops at Marymoor Park.
Runner Up:
- Magnuson Park Off-Leash Area - Seattle
West Virginia
Buckhannon Dog Park, situated along the Buckhannon Riverwalk Trail, has been revamped to provide top-notch amenities for pups. Inside the fenced park, dogs can rehydrate at a unique water station designed to resemble a fire hydrant and play through a tunnel shaped like a dog. Small pups have their own quiet area to enjoy, while larger dogs frolic in the main park.
Runner Up:
- Huntington Dog Park - Huntington
Wisconsin
Kaukauna Dog Park spans 13 acres and features three distinct grassy areas for your pup to explore. It includes a small dog section, a large fenced space with open fields for running, and a separate pond area for dogs who love to swim. Walk your pup along the trail around the pond or relax on one of the benches with a view of the water
Runner Up:
- Granville Dog Park - Milwaukee
Wyoming
Bitter Creek Bark Park in Rock Springs is the top dog park in The Equality State. With grassy banks that lead into a dog-friendly pond, sunken tunnels for racing, and a separate area for small dogs to play safely, this park offers a perfect rest stop during a road trip.
Runner Up:
- North Casper Dog Park - Casper
