3 Amazing Off-Leash Dog Parks in Riverside, CA That You Can Visit Today

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Located about sixty miles east of Los Angeles, Riverside is a suburban area featuring densely populated neighborhoods and industrial areas along the Santa Ana River. With the suburbs, come many households with one or more dogs as family members.
While Riverside is home to various areas for people to walk their dogs on leashes, there are three parks designated for off-leash playtime for your favorite canine to meet some new friends. We hope you find the perfect one to spend a sunny afternoon outdoors with your dog—no doubt they’ll make some new friends!
The 3 Off-Leash Dog Parks in Riverside, CA
1. Pat Merritt Dog Park
🗺️ Address: | 📍6181 Limonite Avenue, Riverside CA |
🕐 Open Times: | 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily |
💲 Cost: | Free |
🐕 Off-leash: | Yes, during all open hours |
- Specifically designated as an off-leash dog park
- Features six staging areas to enter the park as there is a busy road nearby
- Free parking across the street and bathrooms available
- Not much shade and temperatures are often high; prepare accordingly
- Don’t forget to pick up after your pooch, poop bags provided but bring extra just in case
- Dogs must be registered with the city and vaccinated
- Only one dog per person is allowed at a time; people under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Designated area for small dogs
2. Carlson Dog Park/”Bark Park”
🗺️ Address: | 📍4727 Scout Lane, Riverside CA |
🕐 Open Times: | Monday: noon to Sunset; Tuesday-Sunday: Sunrise to Sunset |
💲 Cost: | Free |
🐕 Off-leash: | Yes, during all open hours |
- Four separate fenced-in areas
- Designated large and small dog areas
- Training area for puppies
- Dog water fountains, picnic tables, and benches
- Poop cans and trash cans available for clean-up
- Grass is worn down in hotter months; bring towels to wipe down your dog if they get dusty
3. Riverwalk Dog Park
🗺️ Address: | 📍Pierce Street and Collett Avenue, Riverside CA |
🕐 Open Times: | Saturday-Thursday 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM, closed Fridays |
💲 Cost: | Free |
🐕 Off-leash: | Yes, during all open hours |
- Fenced-in area, grassy area, and agility training area
- Benches and picnic tables are available
- Must bring your poop bags
- Not much shade available; plan accordingly for yourself and your dog
- Be extra mindful at this park; some owners do not follow the rules or pay close enough attention to their dog
In Conclusion
A long walk is good for the body and soul, for both you and your pooch. But sometimes you might want to kick back and watch your dog frolic with some new canine buddies. Riverside features three dog parks that are ideal for dogs who like to play off-leash.
Riverside can get very hot in the summer and fall months, so make sure you check the temperatures before you head to any of these parks. And, as always, keep a very close eye on your dog while they play; not every dog owner is a conscientious and respectful one.
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Featured Image Credit: Alis Leonte, Shutterstock