Guest article by Ashley Alkek
Austinites and their dogs, am I right? It’s a special bond. There are plenty of ways to spend quality time with your bestie, and dog parks in Austin are easy to find. So whether your pooch is in need of fresh air and exercise, a dip in the water or a little canine socializing, we’ve got you covered.
Check out these six sniff-worthy Austin dog parks, which all offer leash-free fun.
Best Dog Parks & Off Leash Areas in Austin
1/ Red Bud Isle
A good friend of mine showed me this gem of a park. Finding a parking spot at Red Bud Isle can take a bit, but the experience is 100 percent worth it. Red Bud is a stunning area surrounded by Town Lake, with various trails leading to the water. There is a lot of space for pups to run around with their furry friends. This 13-acre park seems to be especially popular for water-loving creatures.
3401 Redbud Trail
Hours: 5 a.m.-10 p.m.
2/ Norwood Estate Dog Park
Norwood Estate Dog Park is the most social location on this list, perhaps due to its accessibility right off the Anne and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. There are plenty of colorful chairs placed for dog owners to sit and chat while pups socialize. You’ll find a fenced-in area for pups on the smaller size, as well as water bowls. During my visit, the energy was as high as the flying Frisbees! This truly seems like a great place to meet locals with pets.
1009 Edgecliff Terrace
Hours: 5 a.m.-10 p.m.
3/ West Austin Neighborhood Park
West Austin Neighborhood Park is so relaxing, you might have a hard time leaving. When I was there, not one person or pet was in a hurry to go home. This park is a treasure for everyone who explores it, with thoughtful and abundant seating in shaded areas. Dog owners can sit as they watch their dogs gleefully play. There’s also a playground for the kiddos nearby.
1317 W. 10th St.
Hours: 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
4/ Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park is well known for its hiking and biking trails. It’s also a stellar place to bring your pup for a leisurely stroll. If you plan on fully immersing yourself in nature for at least an hour, this is the place. It’s also the perfect spot for dogs that enjoy splashing around in water.
12138 N. Lamar Blvd.
Hours: 5 a.m.–10 p.m.
5/ Zilker Park
This park needs no introduction! We all know about Zilker’s wonderment and the effect it has on all creatures, big and small. Home to Blues on the Green and Austin City Limits Festival, there’s no question this is Austin’s most beloved park. The 351-acre stretch of land is perfect for any activity with your pet. Leash or no-leash, you’d think the dogs in this park just won the lottery.
2100 Barton Springs Road
Hours: 5 a.m.–10 p.m.
6/ Big Stacy Neighborhood Park
Located in the heart of Travis Heights, Big Stacy Neighborhood Park is the perfect place for dogs and their owners to simply chill out. Its old charm is highlighted with small wooden bridges across streams of water. There are also a number of comfortable benches with engraved dedications to loved ones. This is a great choice for a romantic evening with your partner and your pup (or maybe to meet a partner, if you don’t have one)!
700 E. Live Oak St.
Hours: 5 a.m.–10 p.m.
After researching dog parks in Austin, I have a new appreciation for how dog-friendly we really are around here. Almost every neighborhood has a park where locals can bring their pet for a fun time in practically any type of weather. This city cares about the well-being of its inhabitants, especially when it comes to parks and recreation.
Get ready to visit these local dog parks with our article: Get a Leg Up on Austin Dog Park Etiquette
@theAustinot wants to know:
What are your favorite Austin dog parks?
- Best Dim Sum in Austin – 4 Must Try Chinese Food Places - September 30, 2021
- Best Pasta In Austin – Italian Restaurants For Pasta Lovers - April 29, 2021
- Drink to Old Austin at Circus-themed Carousel Lounge - March 29, 2017
solid recommendations for dog parks with a fully fenced in side for small dogs? our little 6lb guy doesn’t play well with the big’uns
Norwood Estates Dog Park at Riverside and I-35 (west of 35). Park where you can see your car. The area farther away used to have a lot of break-ins. Also, it’s not a dog park per se, but Yard Bar has an area specifically for small dogs.