5 Amazing Off-Leash Dog Parks in Columbia, SC (2024 Update)
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There’s not much worse for a pet owner than to have a dog that’s full of energy with nowhere to run. Columbia, SC, residents know there are only a few places to take their dogs to run in the city.
We’ve put together some of the best off-leash dog parks in Columbia, SC, to help you find the perfect spot to take your dog for some exercise and fun. The parks on our list are off-leash, and most have waste cans and bags provided. However, you need to take a leash and waste bags with you, just in case. Also, most dog parks usually charge an entry fee, but most offer yearly memberships.
The 5 Off-Leash Dog Parks in Columbia, SC
1. Emily Douglas Dog Park
| 🗺️ Address: | 📍2500 Wheat St. Columbia, SC 29205 |
| 🕐 Open Times: | Dusk to Dawn |
| 💲 Cost: | Free |
| 🐕 Off-Leash: | Yes |
- Has a large fenced-in area for dogs to run in
- Has water fountains for the dogs
- Shady areas with benches provided for pet parents
- There’s no separate area to separate small and large dogs
- One of the only free parks in Columbia
2. Sesquicentennial State Park
| 🗺️ Address: | 📍9564 Two Notch Rd. Columbia, SC 29223 |
| 🕐 Open Times: | Dusk to Dawn |
| 💲 Cost: | $4 entry fee; $25 annual memberships available |
| 🐕 Off-Leash: | Yes |
- Affordable entry
- Shade for pet parents
- Park benches to rest on
- Fenced off-leash area
- Water fountains for thirsty dogs
3. NoMa (North Main) Bark Park
| 🗺️ Address: | 📍1250 Parkside Dr. Columbia, SC 29203 |
| 🕐 Open Times: | 6 am to 11 pm |
| 💲 Cost: | $25 a year |
| 🐕 Off-Leash: | Yes |
- Has toys for dogs to play with
- Features separate sections for small and large dogs
- Unique playground for puppies
- A grassy park where your dog can stay clean
- Dogs are required to show proof of being spayed or neutered for entry
4. The Barking Lot at Saluda Shoals Park
| 🗺️ Address: | 📍5605 Bush River Rd. Columbia, SC 29212 |
| 🕐 Open Times: | Dusk to dawn |
| 💲 Cost: | $40 a year, good for two dogs |
| 🐕 Off-Leash: | Yes |
- Has a puppy pool so the canines can cool off
- Contains an agility course
- Gazebo for relaxing
- Grassy parks, so your dog doesn’t get dirty
- Proof of vaccinations required
5. Lake Carolina Dog Park
| 🗺️ Address: | 📍971 Lake Carolina Dr. Columbia, SC 29229 |
| 🕐 Open Times: | $25 annual memberships available |
| 💲 Cost: | Free |
| 🐕 Off-Leash: | Yes |
- Spacious grassy park for pets to run
- Benches for pet parents to rest on
- Is a private park
- Bring waste bags to pick up after your dog
- Friendly people and pets
Conclusion
When looking for an off-leash dog park in Columbia, SC, you’ll need to know the rules before you go. Make sure you take a leash just in case you need it, and always carry doggie waste bags with you. The only way to keep a dog park nice for you and your pets is for everyone to do their part to keep them neat, clean, and safe for dogs and pet parents alike. Enjoy your time with your dog in Columbia’s dog parks!
Featured Image Credit: mezzotint, Shutterstock
