Walking your dog on a leash can be fun, but sometimes you just want to let it run free and stretch its legs. Every city has leash laws, but several dog parks permit owners and their pups to enjoy nature unhindered. If you plan on staying in the Fairfax, Virginia, area with your dog, here are some amazing off-leash dog parks nearby that you can check out.
The 10 Off-Leash Dog Parks in Fairfax, VA
1. Glencarlyn Dog Park
A stream inside offers a spot for your dog to cool down
The park is not fenced-in
Walking trails give you and your dog a place to explore
Picnic tables and a playground are available
Beautiful woodlands surround the area
2. Leesylvania State Park
Off-leash in designated areas throughout this state park
Hiking trails are available for you and your dog to explore on-leash
Access to a beach along the riverside
Full of natural beauty, so prepare to encounter some wildlife
Picnic areas are available
3. Chandon Dog Park
This park is fully fenced
Trees in the area offer plenty of shade, and there are benches for resting
Waste bags and a water pump are provided
Separate areas for large and small dogs
An agility ramp is available for active dogs
4. Merrifield Garden Center Dog Park
Next to Merrifield Garden Center, a dog-friendly garden center
The park is somewhat small
Waste bags, dog bowls, and tennis balls are provided
Area is fenced in to provide safety for your dog
5. Founders Park Off-Leash Dog Area
The park is not fenced-in
Includes beautiful scenery
There is plenty of room for your dog to stretch his legs
A body of water is available for swimming
6. Simpson Stadium Dog Park
Fenced-in to ensure your dog’s safety
Plenty of space for your dog to roam
It is known to be a well-maintained park
Water hoses and bowls are available
Balls and pools are on-site to entertain your dog
7. Bear Dog Park
Includes a multi-use turf field for family fun
Trails are nearby for you and your dog to enjoy
Separate areas for small and large dogs
An agility play area is on-site for more active dogs
Plenty of benches for dog owners
8. Shirlington Dog Park
🗺️ Address:
📍2710 S Oakland St, Arlington, VA, US, 22206
🕐 Open Times:
7:30 am–5:00 pm from Friday to Wednesday, 7:30 am–10:00 am on Saturday and Sunday, and 12:00 pm–5:00 pm on Thursdays
💲 Cost:
Free
🐕 Off-leash allowed?:
Yes, but only in designated areas
Spacious park with plenty of places to roam
Fenced-in and includes separate areas for large and small dogs
You will need to pay to park
Large creek available for your dog to splash in
9. Vienna Dog Park
Water fountains for dogs and for humans on-site
Fenced-in to guarantee your dog’s safety
Ramps, hoops, and hurdles are available
Benches offer plenty of seating options
Area is well-shaded
10. Fort Barnard Dog Park
Park is safely fenced-in
Lighting is included for nighttime use
Picnic tables available
Water fountains and waste bags are available
Conclusion
It isn’t always easy for your dog to burn off energy when it is tethered to a leash, and that is where these amazing off-leash dog parks come in handy. Before planning a trip to any of these dog parks, be sure to review their posted rules and amenities for any updates so that you arrive fully prepared. We hope you have found this list helpful and enjoy your visit to the dog park of your choice!
Featured Image Credit: RODNAE Productions, Pexels