Pooch Date

North Carolina

Aberdeen

•  Martin Park. 40 Acre Dog Park. Martin Park is the local dog park in the Pinehurst, NC Area, an area best known for golf and equestrian activities. The park features miles of off leash hiking trails, streams to swim, benches, and lots of others to play! Location: Behind the WalMart on 15-501, just north of the intersections with highway 1. (Thank you Ellen Pfann)

Asheville

• Asheville Dog Park.  French Broad River Park. One acre fenced and wood chipped yard for off-leash dogs. The Dog Park features a large fenced-in area made for exercising and socializing your pooch! Water and poop bags provided. Location: French Broad River Park. Riverview Drive/Amboy Rd intersection entrance. (Thank you Lara Lustig)

• Azalea Park -  new dog park in Asheville. There is a separate area for small dogs and another for large dogs. a gazebo is located in the large dog area. once the newly planted trees grow, there will be shade. Location: Off Tunnel Road, turn on Azalea, go about 1 mile. park is on the right. Directions: Exit 55 off I-40. Make a left on Tunnel Road (74A). Go approximately 1/2 to 1 mile. Go left on Azalea. Proceed approximately 1 mile. Park is on the right. (Thank you Sharon Weinmann)

Banner Elk

• Banner Elk Dog Park. (NOT A LEASHLESS PARK) This is a people park too. Dogs are allowed in the people park on leash. The dog park is small but nicely maintained. It has a 4 foot fence. There is a beautiful crystal clear creek running through the park that the dogs are allowed to play in on leash. We happened on a dog walk sponsored by the Avery Humane Society and met many nice dog loving people. Location: Route 194, Main Street (?). Directions: Downtown Banner Elk on 194. Behind the Town Hall and Bank of America. (Thank you Penny Martin)

Boone

• Watauga Humane Society Dog Park. The Dog Park consist of 4 acres of fenced land for plenty of room for romping around. Location: Old 421 Hwy. , 153 Don Hayes Road. Directions: Hwy. 421 So. Turn right onto Old Hwy. 421. Go 1/2 mile and turn right onto Don Hayes Rd. Dog Park on the right beside Rutherwood Baptist Church. Call Watauga Humane Society at 828.264.7865 for more information. The Dog Park is located along Don Hayes Road, between Rutherwood Baptist Church and the Boone Stockyard. (Thank you Lynn Northup & Susan Richardson)

Carroboro

• Anderson Community Park, Carroboro, NC. 2 acres consisting of a multipurpose field.

• Cary Dog Park. Pet owners can purchase an annual membership or day pass at any Cary community center. Membership cards and day passes will allow entry through an electronic gate. Day pass is $5, annual membership is $40.Location: Goldbold Park, 2050 Northwest Maynard Road. Directions: Near the corner of Northwest Maynard and Chapel Hill roads.
• Furry Feet Retreat of Cary (formerly Dog Woods @ Pet Central). Cary, NC. Less than 1 acre on a wooded lot, so there is plenty of shade. It is a members only dog park, but daily passes can be purchased. The following are provided: water, poop bags, trash cans, and doggie pools. There is a separate area for small dogs. Members can also rent the area for private dog parties and/or playgroups. Location: 950 W. Chatham St. (corner of W. Chatham and SW Maynard. Directions: See website for directions. (Thank you Teresa Whitley)

Chapel Hill

• Chapel Hill Dog Park. Homestead Park, Chapel Hill, NC. 1/2 acre park within a 60 acre park, chain link fence.  (Thank you Allan Polak)

Charlotte

• Barkingham Park at Reedy Creek Park. 4-Acre fenced-in park with grassy meadows and woodland.  Charlotte, NC. Location: 2900 Rocky River Road. Directions: Take I-85 exit 45-A (East W.T. Harris Blvd) east for about 4 miles - turn left on Rocky River Rd. Park is on the right, dog park will be on your right. (Thank you Melissa Yusko, Christine Webber)
• Davie Dog Park, Fenced off leash dog parks divided by 2 categories: large and small dogs. Location: 4635 Pineville-Mattews Rd. Directions: Rt.51 (Pineville mattews rd) between Providence Rd. and Rea Rd. sign reads Davie Park. (Thank you Barbara Fleischmann)
• Ray's Fetching Meadows at McAlpine Park. Charlotte, NC. 2-acre fenced in dog park. 8711 Monroe Road. Directions: Monroe Road is a main road in Charlotte, NC. Seventh street in the city turns into Monroe as you head southeast out of the city. The park is on your left side, about 6 miles from the city. Pull into the main parking lot and you will see the dog area as you walk into the park. (Thank you Christine Weber & Melanie Firestone)

Conover

• Riverbend Park. 2 acre dog park. Location: 6700 Hwy 16 N. Directions: 8 miles north of I-40 on Hwy 16. Open Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Fee and permit required. (Thank you J. Dwayne Martin)

Davidson

• Davidson, NC.  This off-leash dog park was completed in the fall of 2004. Dogs with current/updatedvaccinations (rabies etc.) can play with their canine friends in this area. The adult owners have created a closenit group themsevles and ultiamtely started a monthly Dog Park Newsletter for all regular attendees. Full enclosed dog park, walk trail and parking area. Location: The Preserve Dog Park. O'Henry Street. The New Neighborhood in Old Davidson. Directions: From the Main St. and Concord Rd, follow Concord Rd. out of town. Left on Grey Rd, drive two blocks and take right onto Wolfe Street, Wolfe St. becomes O'Henry. The park will be on your left. (Thank you Sandy Bowers)

Durham

• Dogapalooza Park. 3 acres, small dog park, large dog park, obdience training area, and area for agility and flyball set ups. Durham, North CArolina. Location: Piney Wood Park at the intersection of Woodcroft Parkway and Woodlake Drive. (Thank you Lily Zeigler)

Elon

• Beth Schmidt Park. No pets other than dogs are allowed in K-9 corner. Owners must clean up after their dogs. Smoking and eating is not allowed inside K-9 Corner. People will be allowed to have drinks, and they may give their pets bite-sized treats. People must stay within view of their dogs. Children under the age of 14 must be with an adult. People who don't have a dog should stay outside the fence for observation. All dogs must be registered to use facility. Annual fee: $20 for owner's first dog and $10 for each additional dog. Dogs can be registed at Beth Schmidt Park Monday-Friday 9-11am or 2-4pm. Mus have veterinary records that show their pets are current for rabies, parvo/distemper, and Bordetella vaccinations. Dogs must have an annual stool check for contagious parasites and must be on a heartworm and flea-prevention program. Hours: 8am-Sundown, Seven days a week. Location: 434 Cook Road, Elon, NC  27244. (336) 449-9255  (Thank you Steve Odee)

Fayetteville

• Fort Bragg Dog Park. Nice dog park in middle of officer housing. Location: 40 Bastogne Dr. Directions: SB 95, exit 56. Follow signs to Fort Bragg. You will take Bragg Blvd. Turn left into the Butner entrance. Go about a mile. Left on Reily. go another mile or so. Right on Normandy, then Right on Bastogne (I think 2nd stop sign) . The park will be on your left, at the bottom of the hill. From the south (NB 95) take first Fort Bragg exit and follow signs to Fort Bragg. Then follow directions onto Base. Need a military ID to enter base. (At least one person per car.) (Thank you Rachel Cederberg)

• Riverside Dog Park. Dogs can roam within fenced areas at the 5-acre park. Opened Sep. 2008 - - Operated by Fayetteville-Cumberland Co. Parks and Recreation. Location: 355 N. Eastern Blvd. (U.S. 301). Directions: Across from the Cape Fear Botanical Garden. (Thank you Holly)

Fort Bragg

• Fort Bragg Bark Park. Fenced, night lighting, benches, trash cans, disposal bags, water fountain, grass and sand, 1 acre, large and small dogs sections. Location: Bastogne Dr. Directions: I95 Exit 56. Follow signs to Ft Bragg. Once at Ft Bragg Gate enter via the Non Decal lane. (Thank you Jaime L. Perez)

Greensboro

• Country Park "Bark Park". Greensboro, NC. Park provides water, water bowls, and scooping bags. Nestled in a naturally wooded area of gently rolling terrain, Country Park is traversed by a stream that feeds two 6-acre ponds. Whether you prefer to walk, jog, ride a bike or simply enjoy an afternoon picnic, Country Park provides the perfect setting. Country Park is home to special events such as the Classic Car Show, Carolina Cup Bicycle Road Race, the Guilford Native American Association's Annual Pow Wow, and the annual Reenactment of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. In addition, Country Park has the the brand new "Bark Park," Greensboro's only off-leash dog park. Location: 3902 Nathanael Greene Drive. (Thank you Catherine Rusch)
• Greenville
  • City of Greenville Off-Leash Dog Area. Off-Leash Dog Area is a dedicated recreational site for citizens and guests who own dogs. The site is a little over a ½ mile east of the Town Common and one block north of West First Street betweenNorth Elm, and North Oak, Willow, Warren and River Drive. This location is also the upcoming trail entrance to theSouth Tar River Greenway, which should be under construction later this year. Click on the picture on the left to see a larger image showing the proposed location. In addition to updates, you’ll find access to resources about other off-leash dog areas such as rules, guidelines and operating structures. Location:mAsh & 1st St. (Thank you Jason Wright)

  Hudson

  • Dogwood Park. Free Off-Leash Dog Park. One acre, grass covered, fenced, double gated. Inside: Carport for shade, an A-Frame, a Seesaw, a Ring Jump, a Pole Weave, and two Tunnels. For friendly Dogs Only! Location: 480 Mulberry Street. Directions: From Hickory, N.C., go north on Rte. 321 for 13 miles, make a left turn on Mt. Herman Rd. Go 1/2 mile and make a left turn on Mulberry Street. Dogwood Park is at the Dead End. (Thank you William H. Barr)

  Kernersville

  •  Bennett Memorial Dog Park. This dog park was opened in Spetember of 2008.  They have 2 areas, 1 large area, and 1 smaller area for smaller dogs. Location: 4th of July Park on Mountain Street. (Thank you Scott Yates)

  Kure Beach

• Gurney Hood Barking Lot. Kure Beach, NC. Fenced pooch play area. Water is available, benches are provided and clean-up bags and trash containers are supplied so you can be a responsible pet handler. An especially good feature is a fenced entry area for holding your dog until you're ready to go into the main play area. Latches on both gates prevent your pup from accidentally getting loose outside the Barking Lot. "Small Dog" play area available. Location: K Ave. at Seventh St., Kure Beach. Directions: located in the heart of Kure Beach. (Thank you Jane Fiery)

• Mebane

  • APS of Orange County.  3 acre, fully fenced dog park for off-leash play. Membership required: call 919-304-2300 ext. 233 or e-mail dogtraining@animalprotectionsociety.org to schedule an orientation. Membership only. Annual memberships available; temporary memberships available to current dog training program students. Park is open 365 days/year, has excellent natural shade, and doggie pools with water are provided. Location: 6311 Nicks Road. Directions: From NC-54, head west out of Carrboro for ~10 miles. Turn right at Mebane Oaks Road, go two miles. Turn right at Nicks Road, go 0.6 mile. Turn left into the APS of Orange County. From I-40/I-85, take exit 254. Turn south (away from Mebane) on Mebane Oaks Road, go six miles. Turn left on Nicks road, go 0.6 miles. Turn left into the APS of Orange County. (Thank you Ali Johnson)

  New Bern

  • New Bern NC. 2 off leash dog areas - 1 for smaller dogs 1 for larger dogs. Location: End of Glenburnie Dr - inside Glenburnie Park. Dogs must be registered. Directions: from US Hwy 70 west turn rt onto S Glenburnie Rd (Hwy 43) travel north to Oaks Rd turn right onto Oaks Rd, go approx a mile, turn left onto Glenburnie Dr - park is at the end. (Thank you Alice Wilson)

  Raleigh

  • Carolina Pines off-leash dog park. The grand opening for the park was October 20, 2007. Location: 2305 Lake Wheeler Road. (Thank you Christina)
  • Millbrook Exchange Dog Park. Raleigh, NC.  2 acre off leash park. Between the pool and tennis courts at the park. Spring Forest Rd. Directions: between Falls of Neuse and Atlantic Ave. at the fire station. (Thank you Betsy Rubenstein)
  • Oakwood Dog Park. Raleigh's newest off-leash park for dogs. Open sunrise to sunset every day. Separate areas for the Big Dog Park and the Small Dog Park. Chain link fencing and mulch surface. Picnic tables. Active volunteer oversight group: FOLDPOP = Friends of the Off-Leash Dog Park at Oakwood Park. See website to join. Location: 910 Brookside Dr. Directions: I-440 Beltline to Capital Blvd S exit. Stay in right lane and exit at Atlantic Ave / Blount St exit. Left at light onto Atlantic Ave. Left at second signal onto Brookside Dr (after Circus Restaurant). Left at second light onto Glasscock St. Right onto Madison Ave. Park is on the right. (Thank you Kate & McKenzie & Timbuk [too])

  Rural Hall

  • Horizons Happy Hounds. Large dog park with seperate area for large and small dogs.
    Water available. Location: Horizons Park. 2835 Memorial Industrial School Road, Rural Hall, NC 27045. (336) 703-2500. (Thank you Crystal Simmons)

  Rutherfordton

  • 4 Paws Kingdom. Dog-centric Campground. Great dog friendly campground with fabulous amenities. 2 dog parks on-site plus pond, hiking, Rally-O & agility course. Only 1 year old! Location: 335 Lazy Creek Dr. (Thank you Darlene Hunt)

  Southern Pines

  • Martin Park. Off leash park with several trails and a little stream. Location: 15-501. Directions: Take 15-501 to Wal-Mart. The park is located on a side street next to Wal-Mart (on the automotive side). The sign states that its a temporary park, but several residents have stated that it has been there over a year now. (Thank you Kristin Ziska)

  Wake Forest

  • Flaherty Dog Park. Free, off-leash dog park. Location: 1226 North White Street. (Thank you Christina)

  Waynesville

  • Waynesville Pepsi Dog Park. The Pepsi Dog Park features 2 tandem fenced areas adjacent to the Vance Street Park Horse Ring and next to a nice walking path and creek. Bags and trash available. 2 fenced in areas for dogs to run and romp off leash. Fun times! Bring water and poop bags. There is also a trail beside the park that follows a river beside it to walk the dogs as well. A few toys that have been donated are there. Location: Vance Street- Off of Howell Mill Road. Below the Waynesville Rec. Center and Soccer fields. Directions: Take Howell Mill Road to Vance Street, and go past the Rec Center, Baseball Diamonds and around the corner past the Horse Ring. (Thank you Dana & Earthworks Galleries)

  Wilkesboro

• Hidden Oaks Dog Park. Wilkesboro, NC. Brand new, off-leash dog park. Location: Cub Creek Park, S. Bridge St. Directions: 2 blocks south of the old Wilkes courthouse. (Thank you Benson Wills)
• Wilmington

• Ogden Park, new Hanover County Parks Department. 3 acres within a 160 acre park. Consists of pine trees and a grassy field.
• Wilmington Dog Park at Empie. The first functional off-leash, fenced-in, dog park in Wilmington. For more information and the dog park rules please call the city of Wilmington at; 910-341-3237. Free, open from dusk till dawn, completely fenced-in area, large dog and small dog play area, water, pet waste stations, parking and restrooms are located at Empie Park. Location: 3300 block of Park Ave. Directions: Located at Empie Park at the corner of Independence Blvd. and Park Ave. (behind Stien Mart). Enter from Park Ave. (Thank you Autumn Wheeler)
• Winston Salem

• Horizons Park. Areas for small dogs and large dogs. This is a new dog park that recently opened in Forsyth County North Carolina. Location: Winston-Salem (Forsyth County) North Carolina. (Thank you Sheree Jones)
• Washington Park. Winston Salem. Location: It is easily accessed from Silas Creek Parkway, Broad Street, and Peter's Creek Parkway. For those who prefer to  walk the Washington Park, Gramley Park, West Salem, and Old Salem areas are within an easy walk. See web site for more information. (Thank you Amy Allen)

   

Tennessee

Chattanooga

• Chattanooga--Dog Park. Small, fenced dog park/has an area for smaller dogs, also/about .5 (1/2) acre/next to the Skate Park. Location: Carter Street/off of HWY 27. (Thank you Bama Dietz)

• Clarksville Bark Park. This is an outstanding place to "unleash" that wild thang, your doggypoo. Over two acres of wide open running and doggy socializing. Separate fencing for small and large breeds. Birdie and Bogie, my infamous twin Brittanys race straight for the car, when I say..."..Want to go to the Bark Park?". They like it better than a hot dog vendor at a Frisbee throwin' contest! Your dog will have a ball at this well maintained doggy playground, its like MilkBones from Heaven. Check for Rules and Regulations for safe and enjoyable visits with your best friend. No aggressive dogs allowed. Potty bags and receptacles provided. Please bring water for your furry buddy as there is no water available at the park just yet (as of 5/06). A human/doggie water fountain combo that has a bowl at ground level for dogs costs $1,500. Anyone who would like to make a donation toward that purchase, or if you want to obtain more information about BARK PARK you may contact Clarksville Parks and Recreation Department, 931.645.7476. Location: City of Clarksville Fairgrounds-Community Park. Directions: At the rear of the Fairgrounds near the playground located on Hwy 47 at Riverside Drive intersection. (Thank you Kathryn Crissey)
• Fairgrounds Bark Park. 2 acres off-leash dog park. Hours are sunrise to sunset. Location: Hwy 48-13 in the Clarksville Fairgrounds. Directions: Take Hyw 48-13 South to Clarksville Fairgrounds. Bark Park is in the Southern End nearest the Zinc Plant Rd Bridge. (Thank you Jennifer Byard)

Cookeville

• Bark 'N' Park Acres. Over 2 acres of terrific off-leash fun. Agility equipment, Lure coursing, giant wading pool, fresh water to drink, events. Location: 3626 Eaton Road. Directions: Located 1 mile from Nashville hwy (rte. 70) in Double springs community. (Thank you June Bussell)

Franklin

• Maggie's Bark Park. A large fenced-in area where dogs can play together. Beside Williamson County Animal Control, Columbia State University, and Franklin High School. (Thank you Kim Douglass)

Germantown

• Forgey Park.  Leash-free dog park. This fenced park is open from dawn to dusk. Animals must be current on vaccinations. Owners must stay with pets and be able to control their dogs with their voices. Aggressive or uncontrollable dogs are not permitted off leash. There is a specific area for dogs less than 25 lbs. Owners clean up after their pets. Location: 1695 Riverdale. (Thank you Jessica Hudson)

Goodlettesville

• Fenway's Park at Moss Wright Park. Goodlettsville, Tennessee. Double-fenced entry, 5 ft. chain link fence, benches, running water & water bowl, waste bags & receptacle. Location: At Moss Wright Park 745 Caldwell Lane. Directions: Fenway's Park is easily located within the comfortable confines of Moss-Wright Park at 745 Caldwell Lane, Goodlettsville, Tennessee. The park itself maybe easily accessed by entering the east entrance of Moss-Wright and immediately turning left, Fenway's Park will be on the left. (Thank you Liz Holcombe)

Kingsport

• Warriors path state park bike trails. Location: Colonial Hieghts. (Thank you Sarah Osborne)

Knoxville

• Knoxville Dog Owners Group. We are a group in Knoxville, TN who is starting off-leash dog parks in Knoxville! Visit our website to help out. (Thank you Jennie Huettel)
• Victor Ashe Park. City park. Fully fenced in dog park, obstacle set up, water available, poop bags available to clean up after your dog. Park has paved and other trails to go walking and a pond. Location: 4901 Bradshaw Road. (Thank you Brandi Jackson)

Memphis

• Shelby Farms Dog Park. Huge area with woods and several ponds for swimming. Off of Trinity Road which is off of Germantown Pkwy. From Walnut Grove take a left onto Germantown Pkwy. Next major intersection in Trinity, turn left. Park in the parking lot on the  left. Enjoy! (Thank you Katie Christian & Rob Hughes)

Murfreesboro

• Murfreesboro Bark Park. A nice large off-leash area. Location: South of the General Bragg Trailhead of the Greenway System (off West College Street/Old Nashville Hwy). (Thank you Tami Holloman)

Nashville

• Centennial Dog Park. Fabulito with a small dog area and separate large dog area. Great shade with water fountains for humans and dogs. Location: Corner of 31st Ave and Parthenon Ave just west of Centennial Park. (Thank you Ayla Christman)
• Edwin Warner Dog Park.  A nice large off-leash area. Little shade so avoid the heat of the day. Restrooms are across the highway. Please clean up all poop! Location: Vaughn Gap Road at Old Hickory Blvd. Directions: From Nashville I-440. Take West End Avenue south. Go about 5 miles and turn left on Old Hickory Blvd just after entering Warner Park. Go about 1/2 mile and turn right on Vaughn Gap Road. The park is about a 1/4 mile on the right. (Thank you Jeff Cowell)
• Shelby Dog Park. A two-acre, fenced, off-leash area. The dog park is located behind Shelby Community Center on 20th Street in East Nashville. Directions: I-65 to Shelby Street, turn away from the stadium, drive about two miles to 20th Street, turn left, park at the community center. Park is behind the community center. (Thank you Terri Lackey)
  
  

Maryland

Annapolis

• Broadneck Dog Park. Meduim Size facility-Small/Large dog parts. Small and Large dog areas. 5-6 foot fully fenced. Double gates for each area. Location: College Parkway. Directions: Maryland Route 2 to College Parkway. (Thank you Leon Raesly)
• Quiet Waters Park. Anne Arundel County's first dog park is approximately one acre in size surrounded by a 5-6 foot high chain-link fence. Fencing divides the space to create separate areas for older/smaller dogs and larger dogs. Each area has its own double gate to insure that the dogs remain in the play area. Rules are posted at each entrance. Also features a Dog Beach! (Thank you David Iams)

Arnold

• College Parkway Park. It is double fenced with seats for owners and water and trashcans for dog pickup. Plastic bag container is supplied, owners refill when visiting. Location: On College park neat Cape St. Clair. Directions: Off Richie Hwy (Route #2) to College Parkway. 4+ mile on the right side of the road is the park. The dog park is immediately on the left after entering the park. (Thank you Janice Brands)

Baltimore

• Canton Dog Park. Two fenced in areas in Canton where dogs can run free. This park is free to anyone. They provide buckets for water, toys, and a great place for any dog to play. There are two fenced in areas: one for large dogs and one for smaller dogs. Location: One the corner of Clinton and Toone Street in Canton in Baltimore City. Directions: From 95-Take the Boston Street exit and continue on Boston Street West. Make a right onto Clinton Street and the park is on your left about two blocks down. (Thank you Julie Kaltenbaugh)
• Robert E. Lee Park. (NOTE: Not a leash free park. Dogs must be on leashes here. We do not normally mention dog parks that require leashes, but we have been told that this is the most popular dog park in the area.) 456.43-acre land. Location: Falls Rd. and Lake Ave. Directions: Take I-83 (Jones Falls Expressway to Northern Parkway (East) Exit. Get into the left lane and turn left (North) at the first intersection, which is Falls Road. You will pass two traffic lights in close proximity at Mt. Washington, then encounter another about a mile further up where Lake Avenue runs into Falls Road. Lake Falls shopping center will be on your left. About a block past the light, just before the bridge, turn right into the Light Rail parking lot. Bear to your right and enter R E Lee Park. When you find a place to park your car, walk on down toward the bridge crossing the Jones Falls at the dam. (Thank you Jennifer Ravel & Liz Hauck)

Bel Air

• Ma & Pa Trail Dog Park. Fenced in 2-part grass dog park, large dog and small dog. Location: Tollgate Road. Directions: off I-95, take exit #77B (MD-24) towards Bel Air. Follow to intersection with US-1 (Business Route), turn left. Follow for 1/4 mile, and turn right onto Tollgate Road. Dog park is on right-hand side about a mile down, across from Equestrian Center. (Thank you Angela Wisniewski)

Bowie

• Town Of Bowie Dog Park. Large fenced area for dogs to run off leash. Take RT 50 toward Annapolis get off at Collington RD, exit, follow to the right, make first right and the park will be on the right side about 1 mile down. (Thank you Mary McMillan)

Boyds

• Black Hills Regional Park. In addition to the dog park, there are over 10 miles of natural trails for your dog walking enjoyment. Location: 20930 Lake Ridge Road. (Thank you Kara Schmidt)

College Park

• College Park Dog Park. Park use is restricted to current members - to join please go to website. Use of the park is restricted during the following hours: Saturdays between 10 AM and noon (big / vigorous dogs). Sundays between 10 AM and noon (small dogs). Location: At the corner of Metzerott Rd and University Blvd in Acredale Park (M-NCPPC). Directions: From the west: Take University Blvd (193) east. Turn right on Metzerott Rd. The dog park is on the right. From the north: Take Baltimore Ave (Rt 1) south. Turn right on Metzerott Rd, just after the 193 intersection. The dog park is on the left. (Thank you Heather Ware)

Crofton

• Bell Branch Park. County Athletic Park Complex. Location: Route 424. Directions: Take Rt. 424 N from Rt. 50. Park is on the left about 3 miles. Take Rt. 424 S from Rt. 3 or Rt. 450. Park is on the right just past the Arundel Fire Station. (Thank you David Shepardson)

Ellicott City

• Howard County Dog Park. Description: 3 acres of enclosed off leash area for dogs. An enclosed Small and elderly dog area separated from the rest of the dog park is also available. Location: Off New cut road in Ellicott City, on Worthington road. Too new to be on any ADC book map.
  Directions:
  FROM ROUTE 29: Merge onto MD-100 E. 0.28 miles. Take the LONG GATE PKY exit- exit number 1A- towards MD-103/ST JOHN'S LANE. 0.12 miles. Keep RIGHT at the fork in the ramp. 0.06 miles. Merge onto LONG GATE PKWY. 0.39 miles. Turn RIGHT onto MD-103/MONTGOMERY RD. 1.07 miles. Turn LEFT onto NEW CUT RD. 0.7 miles. Turn RIGHT onto HILLSBORO RD. 0.2 miles. Turn LEFT into Parking Lot (First Left).
  FROM INTERSTATE 95: Merge onto MD-100 W. 3.49 miles. Take the MD-104 exit- exit number 2. Enter roundabout and take FIRST exit onto WATERLOO RD/MD-104 N. 0.98 miles . Turn LEFT onto MD-103 W./MONTGOMERY RD. 0.27 miles. Turn RIGHT onto NEW CUT RD. (Second Street) 0.7 miles. Turn RIGHT onto HILLSBORO RD. 0.2 miles. Turn LEFT into Parking Lot (First Left). (Thank you Grant Kalasunas)

Fallston

• Rebel's Dog Park. Off leash park Harford/Baltimore County. Two separate parks for big and small dogs and agility course. Location: Connolly Road on the grounds of the Harford County Humane Society. Directions: Rt 1 to Mountain Rd west. Turn right onto Connolly Rd and park is on the right. (Thank you Carey Hughes)

Frederick

• Greenbriar Dog Park. Free public dog park- first and only dog park in the Frederick/Urbana area. Open sunrise to sunset. 7 days a week. 2 areas- large and small dogs. Gazebo for shelter/shade, water source. Nature trail for on-leash walks. Location: 3051 Thurston Road. (Thank you Sharon Kessler)

Gaithersburg

• Gaithersburg Dog Exercise Area. Fenced, trees, shade structure, poop bags, benches, trash cans, parking, handicap access, water source. Location: 151 Bickerstaff Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20877 (cross street, Diamonback Drive). Directions: I270, exit 9B (Sam Eig Hwy); take Right at 2nd traffic light onto Diamondback Dr; take Left at next traffic light onto Bickerstaff Way; park is on left. (Thank you Linda Eader)

Germantown

• Ridge Road Recreational Park. Recreation park with great fenced off-leash dog area. This website also had info about 2 other dog parks in Montgomery County. I lived in Germantown for a year and miss the Ridge Road park very much! (so does my dog). Location: Corner of hwy 355 & Ridge Road. (Thank you Kris Torramce)

Greenbelt

• Greenbelt Dog Park. The first official dog park in the State of Maryland. 

La Plata

• Turkey Hill Dog Park. Fenced in Off-Leash Dog Park. Location: 9430 Turkey Hill Road, just north of La Plata, MD. Directions: off 301 between Waldorf and La Plata, turn on Turkey Hill Road. The park is the first entrance on the right. The dog park is directly on the left once you enter the park. Water is not available here. There are "poop-bags" available. (Thank you Kaycee Ostrander)
   

Laurel

• Maryland City Dog Park.  Fenced in off-leash dog park. There is a separate fenced in area for small dogs. Anne Arundel County Parks at 410-222-7317. Location: Brock Bridge Road. Directions: From Annapolis take I-97 north to Route 32 exit heading west toward Columbia. From Route 32 take the Route 198 exit west toward Laurel (you will go around two circles, so be careful). Travel approximately three miles and turn left onto Brock Bridge Road. Travel approximately one mile down Brock Bridge Road. Park entrance will be on your left just past Suburban Airport. The Maryland City Dog Park is located at the top of the hill along the path to the left of the park entrance. ADC Map 10, J-6. (Thank you Kim Brooks)

Lexington Park

• Lancaster Park. Dog Park in Works. St. Mary's County MD is in process of constructing the first county dog park, at Lancaster Park. Location: John G. Lancaster Park, Willows Road. Directions: From Rte. 246 Lexington Park - Great Mills Road, turn onto Willows Road at the stoplight. Drive past Lexington Park Baptist Church, and turn left onto Lancaster Park. (Thank you Dale Sakahara)
• John G. Lancaster Park . Great New Dog Park. Location: John G. Lancaster Park, 21550 Willows Road, Lexington Park, MD 20653. Directions: Route 246 to Willows Road, park is located 1/2 mile on the left. (Thank you Don Moody)

Ocean City

• Ocean City Dog Park. Located on 94th St. Park is located on 94th Street when you are heading toward 1st street you would make a right onto 94th Street. Is it attached to a building...the building is like an art center - it is right next to the tennis courts on the right. You will see the playground - tennis courts - and right on the side of the tennis courts is the dog park. Not much, has water - dirt and grass. BUT they are building a new dog park and it is supposed to be very nice and there will be a seasonal fee. There are poo bags for pickup, but no one is watching, up to pet owners and there are some they leave their dogs in their to play tennis, which I did not like, but have a standard poodle and she loved it - 1st time she had ever went to a park, so it served the purpose and she had fun, no incidents. the new one being built right behind it looks to be very nice. This one is double gated. A good place to take your dog if you need to have it run and stuff. Thanks, Velma. Location: 94th Street heading toward 1st street, make right onto 94th - place on right behind the arts/rec building attached to the tennis court fences. Directions: 94th Street heading toward 1st street, make right onto 94th - place on right behind the arts/rec building attached to the tennis court fences. (Thank you Velma Dietz)

Pasadena

• Downs Park. Dog Beach. No human swimming but leashed dogs allowed in all park, unleashed on dog beach.Location: 8311 John Downs Loop. Directions: Rt. 100 East to Mountain Rd East. Stay left at fork to park on right. (Thank you Isabella Buebendorf)

Prince Frederick

• Grays Road Dog Park. Large Dog Area & Small Dog Area, Fenced. Location: 2695 Grays Road. Directions: From MD Rte. 4, Turn onto MD Rte. 506 Sixes Road. Turn left onto Gray Road. (Thank you Dale Sakahara)

Reisterstown

• BARC (Baltimore Animal Recreational Center) Park. Includes a 1.5-acre grass park for large dogs and a .75-acre grass park for small dogs. Both parks include water fountains for the dogs. Park membership is required, as the registration form verifies immunization and licensing. Annual family membership is $25. Forms and more information can be found on website. Location: Hannah More Park (behind Hannag More School) on Reisterstown Road. Directions: I-795 North to 1st Franklin Blvd exit. Follow Franklin Blvd to red light at Reisterstown Road intersection. Turn left onto Reisterstown Road. Hannah More School is about 1/2 mile or so down. Follow winding road around to gravel road. Turn right onto gravel road, and follow to dog park. (Thank you Angela Wisniewski)

Rockville

• Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park at King Farm. Rockville's first dog park to open. Location: Piccard Drive and Gaither Road. Directions: Route 355 to King Farm Blvd, 7 blocks to turn right onto Gaither Rd, 3 blocks to Piccard and the park. (Thank you Monte Fisher)

Takoma Park

• Spring Park. Big (unfenced) playground behind secondary school. Also has a spring/fountain for dogs to cool off. Local dogs meet there between 7-9am. Location: Corner of Elm and Poplar. (Thank you Stacy G.)

Wheaten

• Wheaton Dog Park. Don't forget to bring a bag or "poop scooper" -- one MUST clean up after their little (or big) one(s). Also, the park is supported by the county (no fees) -- please make sure your dog is socialized so that the park can stay open -- with the success of this park, other parks will hopefully open in the county. Location: http://www.mc-dog.org/wheatmap.html Directions: Take Arcola Avenue (off of Georgia Avenue) to Orebaugh Avenue and follow the signs. (Thank you K. Glover)

White Plains

• White Plains Regional Park. White Plains,  Maryland. Location: DeMarr Road & St. Charles Parkway. Directions: Take Rt. 301 South towards La Plata, left on DeMarr Road, follow to where it intersects with St. Charles Parkway, park straight ahead, doggie park straight back. (Thank you Renee Petty)
  
  

Connecticut

Avon/Simsbury

• Nod Brook. Water and no leash - Dogs run/swim. This area is designated as a Dog Training Area for the field trial enthusiasts, Please make sure to make sure that your dog does not interfere with the training that goes on there. Nice area. Avon/Simsbury. Location: Off Rt 10 In Simsbury/Avon line. By Chubb Insurance. Directions: Off 44 in Avon: Route 10 heading to Simsbury. RIGHT at light going into Chubb Insurance. RIGHT at 1st stop sign, just past the bike/walk path. Take bumpy road till it ends. The sign for Chubb Insurance is hard to see, but it is part of the Tower Business Park which is a big easy to spot entrance. We went way too far and had to backtrack, so learn from our mistake! It's a terrific place to take your dog, though. Ours learned how to swim there and we'll be back again! (Thank you Peter Peterson, Jane Macy-Painter & Ann Ibbotson)

Branford

• Our Dog Park, Short Beech, Branford CT. The permanent metal fence that is safe for dogs of all sizes with double gate entrance. Location: Behind Adult Day Care Center on Short Beech Road Branford. 421 Shore Drive officially. Directions: Look for Short Beach on Map Quest, Then 421 Shore Drive. (Thank you Norma Winik, Nancy Spector, Dave Hyatt)
• Young Park. There is an enforced leash law in Branford so be careful as this is NOT a town recognized dog park. They usually leave you alone but the partial fenced part is a kids softball field so if there is a game it may be an issue. That is an actual pond but watch out for the swans they will chase your dog Field w/pond-Wooded trails, swimming pond, trails, lots of friendly dogs and people. Leash dog on the way to the field. This is a very nice place to take your dog, it has trails which are marked, there are several routes to take. Also a semi-fenced in field. I felt comfortable enough to let my dog go w/o a leash. I would bring water, and you also must bring a leash. I did not feel comfortable letting my dog swim in the pond, as it was very "pond like". It was a very nice park overall. It took us about 40 minutes to circle around once. Location: I95N to exit 56. Make right follow to stop sign. Make right on to Rt.146. Follow 146 quite a ways, very twisty turny, you will have to make a hard left to keep following 146, veer right @ fork, there will be a golf course, Young Park will be on your right, entrance is on right. (Thank you Jessica Dzierlatka, Denise Gentile & Erica Grasso)

Bristol

• Bristol Dog Park: Proposed Site Rockwell Park off Route 72. Dog owners in Bristol and surrounding towns currently have access to Robert's Property. However, we are working together to build an official dog park! We have a $35,000 estimate for fencing, gates and poop bag dispensers. Location: We currently have an unofficial 50 acre dog park off of James P. Casey Road across the street from Chippens Hill Middle School. There are poop bags on site. (Thank you Chloe White)

• Bristol Park. (This park is not an official dog park yet. Some people are working on making this a dog park. But until it is official, it is illegal to take your dog without a leash.)  Very large open field. Trails and a HUGE hill at the back of the field for dogs to run up and tire themselves out. Lots of friendly dogs and people. Limited parking in small lot (maybe 5-6 cars) but I think parking on road is permitted. Busy road though. Location: Across from Chippens Hill School. Directions: Route 6 in Bristol - at Staples / Dunkin Donuts, turn right. Go about 1-2 miles, passing little league fields. Continue straight through a couple stop signs and a light. Park is on the left side, immediately after the cemetery and directly across from the school.

Easton & Weston

• Trout Brook Valley. Trails for dogs, horses, hiking, picnicking, and for blueberry picking. Location: Aspetuck Land Trust's Crow Hill and Jump Hill Preserves in Easton, and Bradley Road in Weston. (Thank you Aileen Keays)

Enfield

• Enfield Dog Park - Committee - We are forming a committee to do a volunteer effort to build a dog park in Enfield CT. (Thank you Rob Stefanik)
   

Essex

• Viney Hill Brook Preserve. Fenced in dog park and nature preserve. Swimming pond with life guard. Location: Essex, CT. Not easy to find. Look for sign off old route 9 just south of town towards Old Saybrook. Directions: Go North on Old Route 9 from Old Saybrook, CT. Turn left approx 1/2 mile past Essex town line. Follow brown park signs. (Thank you Christopher Billiau)

Fairfield

• Mohegan Lake. Along lakeside and trails. Trees, bags, benches, trash cans, parking. (Thank you Joanne L.)

• • Grass Island Dog Park. Small but busy. Two fenced areas for large and small dogs. Tends to get a little soggy, but worth a visit. Surrounding waterfront/park area nice for leash walks. Location: Grass Island Road. Directions: I-95 Exit 3 onto Arch Street towards RR bridge (left from N, right from S), left onto Horseneck, left onto Shore, left onto Grass Island. park immediately on right. (Thank you JT Brown)

  Groton

  • The Copp Family Park. Fenced in big and small dog park area. Un leashed in fenced area, and some trails around the park. Lots of trees and tables. There are plastic poop bags, but no water, so you must bring your own. Location: Rt. 184. (Thank you Stefanie Thomas)

  Hamden

  • Hamden Dog Park. Description: Fenced in, trees with a path around the outside. Picnic tables, water bowls, poop bags. Lots of dogs! Location: Waite Street. Directions: Route 15 to Whitney Ave, left onto Waite Street. It's on the right. (Thank you Sam Hill)

  Harwinton

  • Harwinton Recreation Area. This is a great place for dogs to romp off-leash in the woods and water but, again, care should be taken to leash up while other park visitors pass if they appear uncomfortable with dogs. Field and wooded 1-2 mile trail, much of it running along a brook. There are picnic tables, a pavilion and a pond but no restroom facilities. Frequented by lots of dog owners and off-leash dogs but others use the park, as well, so some sensitivity should be shown when approaching children or people who aren't crazy about dog slobber. Location: At the intersection of Routes 4 and 118 in Harwinton. Directions: Route 4 (west or east, depending on where you're coming from) to it's junction with Route 118. There is a sign for the park at the junction traffic light, diagonally across the street from The Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. (Thank you Susan Turner)

  Milford

   

  • Eisenhower Park. Fenced, trees, restrooms, & benches. There are donated plastic bags and trash in dog run, NO water so bring some and NO facilities!!!... in the main park the facilities are typically closed... The entire park is numerous acres of fields and woods BUT Is ON LEASH ONLY the main park appears underused however on a typical day. Expect riders on horseback anywhere and anytime (YOU have to be on leash) model airplanes in the south field as well as birdwatchers, High school cross country meets, as well as annual events that require you to be leashed... Take our dog to the dog run use but don't abuse the facilities, The Run was donated by members of the community and while the public works does cut the grass and empty trash bins the dog run is self/user maintained and kept up so be a model citizen and clean up and curb your dog from digging... thank you. Location: North Street ( Route 121). The Main Public use park the dog run is located Off West River from North St, north towards Orange town line left on Flax Mill RD to left on West River Rd 3/4 of a mile on left to enclosure. Directions: From RT 1 post road north on North Street to Flax Mill Road (at the Orange Town line) left to stop sign West River RD... 3/4 of a mile on the left is the dog enclosure for off leash activities... The rest of the Park is for ON leash only and is patrolled !!! as such From the Merritt exit 55 (b) if northbound left on Wolf Harbor to the stop sign and left on West River the entrance is on the right about 5 houses down (on the curve)  (Thank you Jim Sanquedolce)

  New Canaan

  • Spencer's Run, Waveny Park.  Fenced dog park, dogs are off-leash. (Thank you Beth Levine)

  New Haven

  • Divinity School Dog Run. Small but beautiful fenced in dog run for the neighborhood dogs and visitors. It is located in the middle of a residential area so dogs must be refrained from barking. Location: St. Ronan Street. Directions: From I-91, take exit 6 (Willow St) and go into New Haven at exit (not Hamden). Travel on Willow about 1 mile until it dead ends on Whitney Ave. Make a right on Whitney and a few feet down, make a left at the first stop light onto Canner St. Make a left at first stop sign onto St. Ronan and the park will be half a block down on the right. (Thank you Nelia Padilla)
  • Lake Wintergreen. Big open area surrounding a lake. Not fenced in but far from the street, I feel comfortable to let the dog run around off leash. There are sometimes other animals and wildlife around (deer, rabbits). Location: West Rock ridge. (Thank you Ashlee Garay)

  Norfolk

  • Cranbury Park. Wooded and fields. No leash required. Tons of dogs all the time. (Thank you Paul Mazzarulli)

  Norwalk

  • Cranbury Park. Located on Grumman Ave. Water, trails, trees, tables, restrooms. (Thank you Lisa Smyth)
  • Taylor Farm. The pond at the park is great however your dog will need a bath when she or he gets home! Large fields, swimming pond, trails, fenced by the road. Location: Beach Road, Norwalk CT. Across the street from Calf Pasture Beach. (Thank you Michele Moynagh & Lisa Smyth)

  Norwich

  • Pawsitive Park. Off leash, fenced park with separate areas for large and small dogs. Location: Asylum Street. Directions: Off leash park sectioned for small and large dogs. Location: Aslym Street. Directions: Off 395N Exit 80 East (Rte 82) towards downtown Norwich end of exit take a right and go about a mile till you see CVS (on left) turn left at the light there just past CVS. Park is less than a mile on your right. (Thank you Debbie & Ann Miller)

  Old Saybrook

  • Clarke Park. Great hiking trails with water for dogs. Amazing trails and dogs off leash are very welcome. Obviously standards apply...pick up after dog or cover it in woods. Location: Old School House RD. (Thank you Jason Gordon)

  Ridgefield

  • Bark Park Dog Park. Fully fenced, two separate areas: Small Dog and All Dog. Water, benches, built in toys, great people and pups. Location: Prospect Ridge. Off Governor St. Directions: Rte. 35 or 33 to Main Street in Ridgefield. Past the fountain, first traffic light (Governor St.). Make right, go all the way to the end. Make another right. First left turn is the park. (Thank you Marian Vitale & Anna Marie Iannotta)

  Rowayton

  • Rowayton Dog Park. Fenced in on 3 sides with the fourth side having a stone wall which some dogs are able to jump, off leash dog park, water bowl for drinking, poop bags, trash can. Great place to go if you need a fenced in park. You can always see where your dog is at. Very friendly park. Location: Highland Ave. Rte 136 next to the Rowayton Library. (Thank you Michele Moynagh & Debra Bucca)

  Southbury

  • Southbury Off-Leash Area. There is a small fenced in area, and also a large non-fenced in area. Southbury (Oand G). dog park off leash is opened plenty of swimming. Location: Route 67. Directions: exit 15 from 84 right off exit to rt 67 left at light cont. on 67 look for sign that says O&G go left. Please make sure to follow the rules that you find. (Thank you Carol Steiman & Joan Langer)

  Southington

  • Mill Street Dog Park. Dogs must be registered in Southington. Old Baseball Field -Off leash park. Location: Mill Street - Southington, CT 06489. Directions: Off of Queen Street. (Thank you Wayne Splettstoeszer & Jessica Gamble)

  South Windsor

  • South Windsor Bark Park. 1 acre off-leash fenced dog park. Separate areas for smaller dogs and larger dogs. Location: End of Chief Ryan Way (dead end). Directions: Off of Sand Hill Road. (Thank you Brenda Chaisson)

  Stamford

  • Mianus River State Park. This is not a legal off-leash area. While this area is not frequently patrolled by enforcement offices, one does incur some risk when not using a leash. Great off the leash park- hiking trails along the river, tons of great dogs always looking to play, go swimming. Location: south of westover rd in stamford, near the stamford/greenwich border. (Thank you Jamie Testagrossa & Robert Rout)

  • Stamford Dog Park. Future Dog Park. (Thank you Jonathan B.)

  Stonington

  • Anna James
    Paffard Woods, Avalonia Land Trust. 30 acres of trails, nature preserve. Location: North Main Street. Directions: I-95 xt 91S, follow arrows to Stonington and Notrth Main Street.

  Southington

  • Southington Dog Park. Old baseball field. Off-leash park, completely fenced in with a separate area for small or timid dogs. Double-gated entrance, poop bags and trash cans for disposal. Many improvements possible in near future. Nice friendly environment. Location: Mill Street. Directions: Rt 84- exit 32-south on Rt 10 (Queen St) appx.2 miles-right turn onto Mill St-park is after greenway trail on right. (Thank you Rick Narus)

  South Windor

  • Bark Park- South Windsor. Fenced in dog park. Separate area for large and small dogs. Location: Nevers park. Directions: Near Nevers park and south Windsor police station. (Thank you Chris Dorsey)
     

  Torrington

  • Sunny Brook Park. Hiking, trails, pond. Tons of hiking trails. Great for dogs off-leash. Tons of dogs and friendly people. There is a pond, but take care as early summer there are baby geese and the people who fly model airplanes will report you if your dog hurts any wildlife. (rightfully so) Be aware because many families also walk there with children. Please no aggressive dogs. Look forward to seeing you there! Location: Located on Newfield Rd in Torrington. Directions: Look up on Mapquest. Newfield Rd. It is on the right hand side past the dam coming from Torrington. (Thank you Kyle & Melisa Harding)

  Vernon

  • Valley Falls Park. Nice hiking trails. Located off route 84 to tunnel road and left onto valley Falls Rd. (Thank you Michelle Coutu)

  Westhaven

  • West Haven Dog Park. Small completly fenced area for dogs to exercise & socialize off leash. A few park benches. All grass area. Trash barrel outside gate. Bring your own bags. No watre/facilities. Parking lot across the street. Location: Platt Avenue & Educational Way. Near back entrance to West Haven High School adjacent to the tennis courts. (Thank you Rachel Solveira)

  Westport

  • Winslow Park. Located on Route 1. Trees, trash, & tables.

  Wethersfield

  • Wethersfield Dog Park. Small dog and large dog areas. Plenty of trees and benches. Watering stations provided. Please bring your own water. Location: Mill Woods Park, 154 Prospect Street. (Thank you Kathy Griswold)

Granby

• Granby Dog Park. Granby dog park is a fully fenced park, double gated , mulch surfaced. Water is off for the winter so we ask that you bring water in a jug for your dog. poop bags are available. Location: Salmon brook st at Salmon Brook Park. Directions: Directions from Route 91 North & South: Exit 40 (Bradley International Airport) to Route 20 / East Granby / Granby Exit. Route 20 West to Granby center. At intersection of Routes 10/202 & 20, take left onto 10/202 and get into the right lane. Continue through lights on 10/202 South - park is on the right. From Route 44: North on Route 10 to Granby. Park is located just before the town center on the left. From Western Massachusetts: Take Route 57 to the center of Southwick. At the end of Route 57, take a left on Route 10/202 South through town and into Granby. Continue on 10/202 until you pass Granby town center. The park is on the right just past the town center. When you turn into the park entrance, go straight and turn right at the fork in the road. The Dog Park is located at the far end of the parking lot just after the horse exercise area on the right (tan highlighted area in the park layout below). (Thank you Linda Piwonski & Susan Byer)

Greenwich

Maine

Auburn

• Auburn, Me. 04210 Liberty (Great Falls Plaza). Open fields, trails. Location: off main st crossing between Lewiston and Auburn. (Thank you Suzanne Caron)

Belfast

• Belfast Dog Park. An off leash dog park. Location: Behind walsh field in belfast off route 1. (Thank you Melissa Wing)

Cumberland

• Twin Brooks Recreation Area. Large recreation area, big fields, lots of trails. There is a brook that dogs can swim in. Very busy Saturdays and weekdays after 3 with sports practices. Location: Off Tuttle road and off of Greely Road. The Greely side is more dog friendly. Directions: Take Maine Turnpike north to Exit 6A—I-295 North. Remain on I-295 North until Exit 10, Falmouth Bucknam Road. Take a right at the top of the exit ramp. Turn right at the intersection with Route 9 and continue on Rt. 9 to Cumberland Center (under 10 minutes).  When entering Cumberland Ctr., turn Right at stoplight onto Tuttle Road. Travel for 1.7 miles—fields are on the left at Twin Brook Recreation area. (Thank you Nicole Geissler)

Kennebunk

• Kennebunk Dog Park. Fenced in dog area. Great place to take your little friend. All fenced in with trees, wood chips and benches. a slice of nature for mans best friend. Lots of room to roam and it's always cooler than the rest of town. Location: Sea Road. Directions: Take Summer ST. to Sea RD. Dog park is half a mile on the left, near the recycling center. (Thank you Maxwell Clark)

Portland

• East End Beach. Dogs are allowed on the beach before 8am and after 5pm. Location: Eastern Promenade. Directions: Take Congress Street all the way to the Eastern Promenade, turn right to go down the hill to the water / boat launch area, the beach is right there.
• Valley Street Dog Park. Small fenced in with benches and fire hydrants, and water is piped in. Directions: Off 295 Coming north and off Congress Street at west end. (Thank you Mary Coyne)
• Dog park off Ocean Ave. Wooded fenced in dog park. Big wooded fenced in dog park with trails and a special fenced in area for smaller dogs. Location: Ocean Ave. Directions: take 295 to Washington Ave, go straight to Ocean Ave, take right. Dog park is on the left about a mile or so after you turn right. (Thank you Maxwell Clark)

South Portland

• Hinkley Park.  Large multi acre dog friendly park with two ponds, and many trails. It's not fenced in, but once inside there is so much room to roam that many will feel comfortable leaving their dogs leashless. Location: Off Highland Ave. toward Cottage St. Directions: From Broadway, take a right onto Evans street (At the Amato's) follow to end & take a left onto Highland Ave. Hinkley Park is just over a mile down on the right. (Thank you Mike Mahoney)

   

Newport has Gone to the Dogs!

With numerous pet friendly opportunities, there is no reason to leave your loyal companion at home.

Historic

Newport, RI (April 22, 2008) –

Hotel Viking in Newport pampers all their guests, included the four-legged variety. The hotel greets its guests with homemade doggie biscuits upon arrival and has a full menu of gourmet dog food available throughout the stay. If you and your dog like shopping, the hotel also offers products from an upscale dog boutique. (800) 556-7126 www.hotelviking.com The Residence Inn by Marriott in Middletown welcomes pets to their beautifully renovated rooms complete with efficiency kitchens. Throughout the week, the hotel hosts social hours and BBQs, so you and your canine will have a chance to mingle with other guests. (800) 331-3131 www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/pvdnm For a unique vacation, the Edith Pearl Bed and Breakfast in Little Compton is a renovated 1840s colonial, surrounded by 200 acres of preserved and working farmland. There are wrap around porches with comfortable seating to relax and rejuvenate with your pooch. The owner also offers pet sitting services and an array of classes, including general obedience and agility for an additional charge. Plenty of petting and ball throwing are free of course! (401) 592-0053 www.edithpearl.com The Summer Cottage Guest House in Newport is pet friendly and has the added benefit of a large fenced yard with a deck, to relax or burn off some energy. (401) 842-7671 For a complete listing of pet friendly accommodations, visit www.GoNewport.com or call (800) 976-5122.

Newport is a great city for walking with your pets, whether it is through the quaint cobblestone streets of Colonial downtown or preserved nature trails. The Aquidneck Land Trust’s

Sakonnet Greenway Trail is a great way to get outdoors and truly appreciate nature. To fulfill their mission to preserve the island’s open spaces and natural character for the lasting benefit of our community, the organization is in the process of creating a 7-mile trail for the public. www.ailt.org The Melville Ponds Recreation Area in Portsmouth is a 130-acre park that offers hiking trails, fishing and camping. Leashed, well-behaved dogs are welcome.

www.portsmouthri.com

While most beaches are open to leashed dogs from Labor Day to Memorial Day, there are some available throughout the summer months as well. In Portsmouth’s

Sandy Point Beach, dogs are allowed after 5 pm. At Teddy’s Beach in Portsmouth, dogs are always welcome. For swimming holes in Jamestown, head to the beach at East Ferry and the boat ramps at Fort Wetherill and Fort Getty for a quick dip.

The beautiful state parks in the area are perfect for a day of picnicking with your family or frolicking with your dog. In Jamestown,

Fort Wetherill has spectacular views of Newport Harbor and the East Passage of Narragansett Bay and Beavertail State Park offers hiking trails, saltwater fishing and beautiful views of the lighthouse. In Newport, Fort Adams State Park has exceptional panoramic views of the harbor and historic fort and Brenton Point on Ocean Drive is a favorite of families and kite flyers. Canines are welcome at Rhode Island’s state parks if they are leashed, well-behaved and owners are responsible.

www.riparks.com

If your dog was born to run and long walks won’t do the trick, the

Newport Dog Park is the answer. This fenced park is leash-free and provides an opportunity to exercise and socialize with other dogs. On any given sunny afternoon, your pooch will enjoy playing with a variety of new friends. The park is located on the Connell Highway Extension. "Mutt-Mitts" are provided; just remember to bring water and a ball.

To complete your Newport experience, there are several dog-friendly attractions that will teach you a little about the city’s unique history.

Gansett Cruises is known for "Harbor Tours with a Different View". Enjoy local refreshments like Del’s lemonade or R.I. quahog "stuffies" and listen to the narrated tour, rich with historical facts and personal memories of the destination. Blankets and treats are provided to make your dog comfortable. (401) 787-4438 www.gansettcruises.com Belcourt Castle allows dogs to tour the grounds of the 60-room mansion designed by Richard Morris Hunt in 1891. Water bowls are always set out for visitors. Tours are often led by Moana, a resident "Newportonian" spaniel, dressed in her finest pearls. (401) 846-0669 www.belcourtcastle.com The world famous Cliff Walk is a 3.5-mile picturesque public access walk that combines the natural beauty of Newport’s shoreline with the architectural history of the Gilded Age.

www.cliffwalk.com

There are numerous outdoor restaurants that open their patios to dogs throughout the summer. A local favorite is the

Canfield House in Newport, which hosts "Dog Day Afternoons" on Sundays. From 12pm-4pm, dogs are able to enjoy treats on the outdoor

patio, while owners enjoy a beverage and light meal. Other establishments with great dog-friendly patios in Newport include

O’Brien’s Pub, Sardella’s and H20. In Jamestown, check out places like Tricia’s Tropi-Grille, East Ferry Deli, Slice of Heaven and Trattoria Simpatico. There are numerous picnic spots throughout the county, so grab a box lunch and enjoy a meal al fresco with your canine companion. If your dog is deserving of a special treat, Frosty Freez in Middletown has been serving great ice cream since 1956 and offers a special doggie cup (vanilla ice cream topped with a dog biscuit).

In terms of shopping, there are the obvious choices like

Petco in Middletown, but Aquidneck Island has some great local pet stores, such as Aquidneck Aquarium & Pet Deli (401) 847-3361 or Petrageous (401) 846-3335. Cricket and Riley, an upscale boutique, offers everything your little "Precious" desires, from fun and frivolous to healthy and functional. Don’t forget to let your little one sample some of the mouthwatering homemade treats. (401) 619-3719

www.cricketandriley.com

In terms of events, on June 8^th

^{Potter League’s Heart and Soul Walk for animals is not to miss! This fun family event is an annual fundraiser for the animal shelter, soon to be the only green animal shelter in the country and one of the few green public buildings in Rhode Island. Along with the 1- or 3-mile walk, there are games, demonstrations and photo contests in the picturesque grounds of Glen Park in Portsmouth. The Potter League also has a variety of fun classes, such as Agility and Rally O. Check out their website for a full calendar of events. (401) 846-8276 www.potterleague.org At Glen Farm, the Newport International Polo Club plays every Saturday from June through September. This unique recreational event is a local favorite and tailgates and leashed dogs are welcome. www.glenfarm.com The 1st Annual Black Tie Doggie Ball will be held on August 2nd at the Fort Getty Pavilion in Jamestown. Dogs must be dressed in festive attire to attend. Sponsored by Paws and Claws, the event will be used to raise money for the Friends of Jamestown Animal Shelter. (401) 354-9200 The 10th Annual Jamestown Holiday Dog Parade will be held at noon on Sunday, December 21st. Proceeds from this event will also benefit the Friends of Jamestown Animal Shelter. (401) 354-9200}

When traveling with pets, it is always advisable to call for policies ahead. Generally, if your furry friend if leashed and well-behaved, your experience will be more enjoyable. To make traveling less stressful, it is suggested that you bring favorite toys, bedding and treats from home. Newport County is a perfect destination to explore with your loyal companion!

###

The Newport County Convention & Visitors Bureau is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of the City of Newport and the five townships of Newport County as a destination resort for business and leisure travel. For further information, please contact the NCCVB Marketing Department at (401) 845-9151 or www.GoNewport.com.