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10 Amazing Off-Leash Dog Parks in Raleigh, NC (2024 Update)

Melissa Gunter

By Melissa Gunter

two small dogs playing in the park

Raleigh, North Carolina, is easily one of the most historic and beautiful cities in the world. Living there, or visiting when you have the chance, can be a truly memorable experience. Like many places in the United States, the people of Raleigh understand the needs of dog owners. Having a safe place where your dogs can play off-leash is a great way for a pooch to make friends and improve their socialization skills. When you add in the beauty of the area and the friendliness of the people there, no wonder dog owners are always on the lookout for new parks to visit and enjoy.

To help with those goals, let’s take a look at some of the most amazing off-leash dog parks in and around Raleigh, NC. Maybe you can find the perfect dog park for you and your best friend to try out next.

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The 10 Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in Raleigh, NC

1. Dix Park Dog Park

🗺️ Address: 📍1800 Umstead Dr., Raleigh, NC 27603
🕐 Open Times: 7 a.m. until 9 p.m.
💲Cost: Free
🐕 Off-leash: Yes
  • Features 3 fenced areas for dogs to play and have fun
  • Small dogs have their own section, so they don’t get hurt trying to run with the big dogs
  • Water fountains are available for bowl fill-ups
  • Features grass and dirt, so mud is possible when it’s raining
  • Located in the heart of the city, making it easy access for all dogs and their owners

2. Millbrook Dog Park

🗺️ Address: 📍1905 Spring Forest Rd, Raleigh, NC 27615
🕐 Open Times: 7 a.m. until 10 p.m.
💲Cost: Free
🐕 Off-leash: Yes
  • This dog park features 2 fenced sections for small and large dog breeds to be separated
  • A third fenced section is designated for picnics and relaxing with pets
  • Agility equipment is available to help tucker dogs out
  • The oldest dog park in Raleigh
  • Park has a mister to help dogs cool down when it’s hot outside

3. Buffaloe Road Dog Park

🗺️ Address: 📍5908 Buffaloe Rd, Raleigh, NC 27604
🕐 Open Times:  8 a.m. until 8 p.m.
💲Cost: Free
🐕 Off-leash: Yes
  • Lots of space in the fenced areas for dogs to run and play
  • The park offers access to running water to help hydrate pooches as they play
  • Cleanliness is stressed at this park, so please bring poop bags to clean up after your pet
  • Areas are provided to allow dog owners to sit and enjoy the fun

4. Carolina Pines Dog Park

🗺️ Address: 📍2305 Lake Wheeler Rd, Raleigh, NC 27603
🕐 Open Times:  8 a.m. until 8 p.m.
💲Cost: Free
🐕 Off-leash: Yes
  • Designed as a forested area for dogs to run and play
  • Offers lots of sitting and shade for pet owners
  • Water is available when dogs get thirsty
  • Visited by lots of locals making it a great place for dogs to socialize and make friends

5. Jack Smith Park Dog Park

🗺️ Address: 📍9725 Penny Rd, Raleigh, NC 27606
🕐 Open Times:  8 a.m. until 8 p.m.
💲Cost: Members are free. Day passes cost $5
🐕 Off-leash: Yes
  • Located near Jack Smith Park where dogs are also allowed to explore on-leash
  • Offers water fountains for dogs
  • Features 2 fenced areas to promote safe play
  • Provides poop bags to help keep the park clean
  • Members and their pets visit for free but others must pay $5 for a day pass

6. Oakwood Dog Park

🗺️ Address: 📍910 Brookside Dr, Raleigh, NC 27604
🕐 Open Times: 8 a.m. until 9 p.m.
💲Cost: Free
🐕 Off-leash: Yes
  • Offers a doggy pool for cooling down on hot days
  • Poop bags and fresh water are available for dogs
  • Lots of shade and seating for visitors
  • Near Oakwood Park where dogs are welcome on a leash for other activities

7. West Street Dog

🗺️ Address: 📍400 W. North Street Unit 110 Entrance is on N West St, Raleigh, NC 27603
🕐 Open Times: 7:30 a.m. until 8 p.m.
💲Cost: Free for members. Guests pay $4
🐕 Off-leash: Yes
  • Designed as an indoor dog park and bar
  • Allows members in free while guests pay $4 to visit
  • Lots of activities and agility equipment for dogs to play with
  • Offers fun seasonal activities for dogs and their owners

8. Dog Park at Sugg Farm

🗺️ Address: 📍Grigsby Ave, Holly Springs, NC 27540
🕐 Open Times: 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.
💲Cost: Free
🐕 Off-leash: Yes
  • Lots of sun and shade for pets and their owners to enjoy
  • Features water stations to keep pups hydrated
  • Multiple trash cans are available to keep the park clean
  • Dogs and their owners are friendly and welcoming to newcomers

9. Northgate Dog Park

🗺️ Address: 📍300 W Club Blvd, Durham, NC 27704
🕐 Open Times: 6 a.m. until 10 p.m.
💲Cost: Free
🐕 Off-leash: Yes
  • Friendly owners and dogs to socialize and spend time with
  • Features separate areas for small and large dogs
  • Water spigots are available to offer fresh drinks
  • A dog park tag is required before visiting
  • Maybe a bit muddy when raining

10. Ashley Wilder Dog Park

🗺️ Address: 📍Wilder Nursery Trail, Knightdale, NC 27545
🕐 Open Times: 6 a.m. until 9 p.m.
💲Cost: Free
🐕 Off-leash: Yes
  • Areas are sectioned to allow distance between small and large dogs
  • Park staff work diligently to keep the area clean and maintained
  • Lots of shade for owners and dogs when they get too heated
  • Water s available for when dogs need a refreshing drink

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As you can see, dogs and their owners in Raleigh and the surrounding areas have access to some of the best dog parks around. If you’re looking for a dog park that is secure, welcoming, and clean enough for your dogs, this list will help you learn more. Perhaps visiting one or all of the dog parks we’ve mentioned can offer you and your dog a great adventure to find your favorite new spot.

Make sure to remember basic safety and manners when you stop by. Make sure your dog is fully vaccinated and not feeling under the weather. The two of you should also do your best to keep the parks you visit clean and tidy so you can leave a good impression and make new friends.

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Featured Photo Credit: otsphoto, Shutterstock

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