7 Best Off-leash Dog Parks in Minnesota
The best dog parks in Minnesota have a few things in common that set them apart from other off-leash areas in the country. For one, most of them are set amidst beautiful natural preserves, while others are found near small neighborhoods.
Don’t miss a chance to check out these Minnesota dog parks with your fur baby:
1) Battle Creek Dog Park
2350 Upper Afton Rd, Maplewood, MN 55119
You’ll find Battle Creek Dog Park along Upper Afton Road in south Maplewood. Fur parents who have been there say it’s one of the best dog parks in the metro area.
It’s also the biggest dog park in town, with over 30 acres of securely fenced space where canines can run and play off-leash. Apart from that, it also has miles of wooded trails, two small ponds, and a larger pond where Fido can go swimming.
Water is unavailable on-site, so you must bring your own supply and your dog’s bowl.
2) Minnehaha Off-Leash Dog Park
5399 Minnehaha Park Drive S, Minneapolis, MN 55417
Minnehaha Off-Leash Dog Park is one of the most popular amenities available at Minnehaha Park.
You’ll find it on the south side of the park by the water. It’s partially fenced, so you have to keep a close watch on your dog. There are trail markers along the park to let you know when you’re leaving the off-leash area.
There are more than six acres of off-leash space on-site where Fido can play fetch and make new canine friends.
3) Bloomington Dog Park
111th St & Hampshire Ave, Bloomington, MN 55438
Another large Minnesota off-leash dog park worth noting is Bloomington Dog Park. Its 25-acre grassy area with hills, trees, and a pond is every dog’s dream.
You need to have your dog licensed before you can bring him to the park. You can purchase the license at the Bloomington Civic Plaza along West Old Shakopee Road.
This off-leash area has become very popular among dog lovers because it’s one of the best places to be if you want to enjoy a quiet afternoon and a breath of fresh air with your dog.
4) Lake Minnewashta Regional Park
6900 Hazeltine Blvd., Chanhassen, MN 55331
Lake Minnewashta Regional Park offers a mix of oak groves and a beautiful shoreline. The fenced-in off-leash area has 18 acres of space separated into two: one for big dogs and another for small dogs.
There’s also a mile-long trail on-site perfect for long walks. It meanders along the edge of Lake Minnewashta and goes through the park’s forested areas.
You need to keep your dog on a leash if you want to explore the rest of the park. There are shelters on-site available for rent, as well as public boat access and a fishing pier.
There’s also a bathhouse, several volleyball courts, a paved biking trail, and a few vending machines on-site.
5) Bryant Lake Regional Dog Park
6328 Rowland Rd, Eden Prairie, MN 55344
Bryant Lake Regional Dog Park is one of Three River’s many off-leash areas. It’s part of Bryant Lake Regional Park, located along Rowland Road.
You need to get either a daily or an annual pass before you can let Fido play in this 9-acre fenced off-leash area. Two dogs per owner are allowed; you must clean up after your dog to help keep the regional park in tip-top shape.
6) Arlington Arkwright Park
Arlington Ave E, St Paul, MN 55130
Arlington Arkwright Park has a unique 5-acre off-leash dog park. It winds through a forest and then opens to a spacious area where your fur baby can enjoy the great outdoors.
However, running water and poop bags are unavailable on-site, so you must bring your own supply. You’ll find waste bins around the park where you can dispose of used bags.
There’s also a common area on-site, which has picnic tables and benches. Local fur parents love hanging out in this area to meet up with other dog lovers, enjoy a snack, or just relax before heading home.
7) Kaposia Landing and Dog Park
800 Bryant Ave, South St Paul, MN 55075
The off-leash dog park at Kaposia Landing features six acres of space enclosed in secure, well-maintained fences. It also has a bullpen entry and exit area to help ensure your dog is safe when entering and leaving the dog park.
Waste bags and bins are available on-site, but you can bring your own supply in case the park runs out. It’s also best to bring your own bottle of water and your dog’s bowl to prevent doggie dehydration.
Before heading to the dog park
You need to prepare a few things before visiting dog parks in Minnesota. Since most of the off-leash areas in the state are close to lakes, you have to make sure you have trained your dog to follow your voice, so he doesn’t wander off.
You also need to pack essentials like poop bags, water, your dog’s bowl, and a first-aid kit before you stop by dog parks. Doing a little bit of research about park rules and hours is also important.
Don’t forget your dog park etiquette as well to make sure you, your dog, and everyone with you at the dog park will have a great time.
You won’t run out of things to do when you visit Minnesota with your dog. The state is teeming with dog-friendly state parks, breweries, and beaches. If you’re ready for another adventure with your furry best friend, add Minnesota dog parks to your list.
