TOP 30 Recreational areas for dogs in California

China Camp Point Picnic Area is a beautiful park located in San Rafael, California, along the shore of the San Pablo Bay. Visitors can enjoy stunning waterfront views, meadows, oak habitats, and a variety of wildlife such as deer, squirrels, coyotes, and numerous birds. The park also features an extensive intertidal salt marsh, where endangered species like the California clapper rail and salt marsh harvest mouse can be found. The park has a rich history, with a Chinese shrimp-fishing village thriving on the site in the 1880s. The museum at China Camp Village tells the story of these hardy shrimp fishermen. Visitors can also explore the beach, swim, picnic, and enjoy activities like wildlife-watching, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, swimming, boating, and windsurfing.

The Upper Noe Recreation Center, located at 295 Day Street in San Francisco, California, is a popular park and tourist attraction in the vibrant Noe Valley neighborhood. This bustling hub features a recreation center and playground, making it the perfect spot for families with young children. Visitors can also enjoy a fenced dog run, tennis courts, basketball courts, indoor gym, auditorium, baseball diamond, picnic area, patio, and multipurpose field. The facility offers a variety of programs, including tot classes, after-school programs, and dance classes for seniors. Whether you're looking to get active or simply relax in a beautiful outdoor setting, the Upper Noe Recreation Center has something for everyone. If you notice any maintenance or vandalism issues, you can report them by calling 311 or clicking the link provided.

Located in the heart of San Francisco, California, the Potrero Hill Recreation Center is a vibrant community hub offering a wide range of classes and programs for all ages. Situated at 801 Arkansas Street, this institution provides a variety of outdoor amenities including a playground, baseball field, basketball court, dog play area, ball fields, tennis courts, picnic tables, and BBQ grills. Open on Tuesdays from 10:00am to 8:00pm, the center offers basketball programs for enthusiasts of all skill levels. In addition to sports facilities, the Potrero Hill Recreation Center also features an auditorium, community room, gymnasium, and athletic field available for reservation.

Coyote Point Recreation Area is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 1701 Coyote Point Drive in San Mateo, California, United States. This stunning waterfront park offers breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay and features a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including picnic areas, playgrounds, walking and biking trails, a marina, and a beach for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also explore the CuriOdyssey science and wildlife center, which offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for all ages. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the water or an adventure-filled outing, Coyote Point Recreation Area has something for everyone to enjoy.

Temescal Regional Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 6500 Broadway in Oakland, California, United States. The park is open between 5am and 10pm, with gate hours from 8am to 10pm. Park curfew is from 10pm to 5am. Swim hours and fees vary depending on the day. Parking is available for $5 per vehicle, with additional fees for buses and dogs. The park offers various amenities such as accessible drinking fountains, barbeques, and wheelchair accessible trails. The historic Beach House facility is available for events and weddings, offering a panoramic view of Lake Temescal. Fishing and picnicking are popular activities at the park, with designated areas for swimming. The park has a rich history, originally constructed as a storage lake for drinking water in 1936. Visit Temescal Regional Recreation Area for a relaxing day in nature.

Benicia State Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 1 State Park Road in Benicia, California, United States. Visitors can enjoy 2 1/2 miles of road and bike paths for cycling, running, walking, horseback riding, and roller skating. Picnicking, bird watching, and fishing are also popular activities at the park. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. The marshland area on Dillon’s Point is a favorite spot for fishing. A parking fee is required for visitors. Three "Enroute" campsites are available for overnight stays on a first-come, first-served basis, limited to motorhomes or vehicles with trailers that are fully self-contained. Tents are not allowed. It is prohibited to collect or destroy anything in the park, including mushrooms. Online reservations are not available for this park. The weather in the area can be changeable, so layered clothing is recommended. To reach the park, take the Columbus Parkway exit on I-780, 1.5 miles west of the outskirts of Benicia. Latitude/Longitude: 38.0780/ -122.1926.

Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 2500 Stanley Blvd in Pleasanton, California, United States. The park offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy, including swimming, fishing, boating, picnicking, and hiking. The park is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. Visitors can swim at the designated hours when lifeguards are on duty, or at their own risk outside of those times. Parking fees apply, and there are additional fees for boating, fishing permits, and bringing dogs into the park. Shadow Cliffs was originally a gravel quarry donated to the Park District in 1971, and has since been developed into a 266-acre park with an 80-acre lake. The park features facilities for persons with disabilities, accessible parking, trails, and restrooms. Beach wheelchairs are available for free to assist wheelchair users in navigating the sandy beach area. The park also has a wheelchair accessible fishing pier and interpretive pavilion.

Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area, located at 100 Pier Avenue in Oceano, California, is a popular off-highway vehicle (OHV) area managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, surfing, surf fishing, camping, and hiking at this stunning beachside location. The SVRA is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. for vehicle day use, with passes available for purchase at the beach entry kiosks. Safety tips are provided in both English and Spanish, and leashed dogs are allowed in certain areas. Primitive beach and dune camping is available with no designated campsites, and reservations can be made through Reserve California. Additionally, the SVRA offers a fee-based dump station for campers. For more information on OHV rentals and other park concessions, visitors can contact the district office in Pismo Beach. Please note that certain areas within the SVRA are closed to vehicular use to protect private property and sensitive plant and animal life.

Avalon Kids Park and Avalon Dog Park is a family-friendly recreational facility located at 410 Avalon Canyon Road in Avalon, California, United States. This park offers a fun and safe environment for children to play and socialize, with a variety of playground equipment and open spaces for activities. Additionally, the park features a separate area for dogs to run and play off-leash, providing a space for furry friends to exercise and socialize with other dogs. The beautiful surroundings of Avalon make this park a popular destination for families and pet owners looking to enjoy the outdoors and spend quality time together.

Heroes Park, located within the Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District in Murrieta, California, is a popular tourist attraction and recreational destination. The park is situated at 35242 Briggs Road and offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. Please note that during and after rain, the grass parks within Heroes Park will be locked until they have dried to protect the turf. Park inspectors will assess the conditions and determine when they can be reopened for normal use. However, the DG park and two nature parks will typically remain open for use during these times.

Carmichael Recreation and Park District, located at 5750 Grant Avenue in Carmichael, California, is a popular tourist attraction and park in the area. The district is dedicated to providing accessible facilities, elements, and communication channels for all members of the public. This commitment extends to their website, which is designed to be compatible with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1) and commercial screen reading software. The district also supports the Dog Park and Friends of Carmichael Canine Corral (FCCC) initiative. Carmichael Recreation and Park District regularly tests its website with users who have varying disabilities and ensures ongoing compliance with accessibility standards. They welcome feedback and strive to resolve any issues in a timely manner. The district is transparent about their efforts, making the last three months' reports on website accessibility available to the public.

Sunset Whitney Recreation Area, located at 4201 Midas Avenue in Rocklin, California, is a sprawling 184-acre park that was formerly the Rocklin Golf Club. Purchased by the City in 2018, the area is now being developed into a vibrant community space with a variety of amenities and activities for residents to enjoy. The master plan for the Sunset Whitney Recreation Area was approved by the City Council and includes features such as walking and biking trails, a central activity hub, and new park spaces. The community has shown great enthusiasm for the project, with over 175 people attending a recent meeting to share their feedback and ideas. Grant funding has been secured for trail expansions, and volunteer events have helped beautify the area by planting trees and painting facilities. The Sunset Whitney Recreation Area is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with events such as the annual Sunset Run 5K fundraiser drawing in residents from across the city. From public forums to volunteer days, the development of the Sunset Whitney Recreation Area has been a collaborative effort between the City and its residents, creating a space that is both beautiful and inviting for all to enjoy.

Kennedy Grove Regional Recreation Area is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 6531 San Pablo Dam Road in El Sobrante, California, United States. The park offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy, including picnicking, hiking, bird watching, playgrounds, and more. The park is open seasonally from November to October, with varying hours. There are parking fees for weekends and holidays, as well as fees for dogs. The park is wheelchair accessible and offers reservable group picnic areas. The park also features a historic indoor/outdoor facility called Fern Cottage, which is popular for events such as weddings and parties. The park is rich in history, once being the site of ranchos and a narrow-gauge railroad. The park was dedicated in 1967 in honor of President John F. Kennedy and is operated by the East Bay Regional Park District. Visit Kennedy Grove Regional Recreation Area for a relaxing and enjoyable outdoor experience.

Admiral William Standley State Recreation Area is a beautiful park located in Branscomb, California, United States. Situated at an elevation of 1,700 feet in the Coastal Range, the park features stunning redwoods and is near the headwaters of the south fork of the Eel River. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails and the peaceful natural surroundings of this park. Please note that dogs are not allowed on the trails, with the exception of service animals. The weather in the area can be unpredictable, so it is recommended to dress in layers. Online reservations are not available for this park. Save the Redwoods League has played a significant role in protecting the redwoods in California State Parks, including this one. Learn more about their efforts at SaveTheRedwoods.org. Plan a visit to Admiral William Standley State Recreation Area for a relaxing and enjoyable outdoor experience.

Sherwood Dog Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 362-370 Scott Street in Paso Robles, California, United States. This spacious park is specially designed for dogs to roam and play freely in a safe and secure environment. The park features fenced-in areas for small and large dogs, as well as agility equipment for them to enjoy. With plenty of shade, seating areas, and water stations, Sherwood Dog Park is the perfect place for both dogs and their owners to socialize and have a great time. Whether you're a local resident or just passing through, Sherwood Dog Park is a must-visit destination for any dog lover.

Eureka Dog Park is a beloved park located at 2020 Watson Drive in Eureka, California. This park is a haven for dogs and their owners, offering a safe and spacious area for pups to run, play, and socialize. The park is proudly supported by local organizations, businesses, and individuals who have generously contributed to its development. Eureka Dog Park is truly a community effort, making it a special place for all furry friends and their human companions to enjoy.

Lafayette Park Dog Play Area is a popular tourist attraction located in San Francisco, California. This park is a haven for dog lovers and their furry friends, offering a safe and enclosed space for dogs to run, play, and socialize. The park is equipped with dog-friendly amenities such as water fountains, waste disposal stations, and plenty of shade for both dogs and their owners to enjoy. Located in the heart of San Francisco, Lafayette Park Dog Play Area is the perfect spot for a day of outdoor fun with your four-legged companion.

Butcher Dog Park is a popular destination for dog owners in San Jose, California. Located at 1782 Lancaster Drive, this spacious park offers a safe and welcoming environment for dogs to socialize and play off-leash. The park features separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as agility equipment and water stations. With its well-maintained grounds and friendly atmosphere, Butcher Dog Park is the perfect place for furry friends to exercise and have fun.

Dougherty Hills Dog Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 6510 Amador Valley Boulevard in Dublin, California. The park features a unique art installation called "Dogs of Dublin," which consists of brightly colored silhouettes of dogs lining almost 500 feet of fence along Amador Valley Boulevard. These silhouettes were created from a pet photo shoot held at the park, showcasing replicas of neighborhood dogs. The park also previously housed the "Animal Series" art installation by artist Michele Alcantara, which was decommissioned in 2017. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park while admiring the colorful dog silhouettes and taking in the beautiful views of the nearby hills at dusk.

Brannan Island State Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 17645 California 160, Rio Vista, California, United States. The park is open from sunrise to one hour after sunset, with a new gate closing one hour after sunset and reopening at sunrise. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and under human control at all times. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance, with bookings based on availability and the park's maximum stay rules. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, and fishing for species such as striped bass, sturgeon, catfish, and more. Birdwatchers will also enjoy the 76 species of birds that call the park home.

Little Yosemite Area is a picturesque park located at 1895 Geary Road in Sunol, California, United States. The park offers a variety of activities such as camping, picnicking, hiking, and backpacking in its 6,859-acre wilderness. Visitors can explore sandstone outcrops with fossils, massive basalt outcrops, and the inviting creekside community along Alameda Creek. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife including ground squirrels, yellow-billed magpies, red-tailed hawks, raccoons, skunks, and black-tailed deer. The Sunol Visitor Center is open on Fridays from 10am to 2pm and on Saturdays, Sundays, and most holidays from 8:30am to 4pm. The center offers information on trail suggestions, recent animal sightings, and nature hikes led by the naturalist staff. Visitors can also meet animal ambassadors and learn about the park's plant specimens at the Sunol Herbarium.

Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area is a campground, lodging, and park located at 18600 Corral Hollow Road, Tracy, California, United States. The institution offers a variety of riding facilities including a motocross track, ATV/MC track, children's track, and beginner track. The park operates year-round with varying hours depending on the season. Day use fees are $5.00, while camping is $10.00 per night per vehicle. Visitors can also visit MotoMart for off-road parts, accessories, apparel, safety equipment, food, and beverages. Dogs are allowed on a leash or confined in a vehicle, tent, or pen. Carnegie Advisory Team (CAT) meetings provide a forum for stakeholders to provide input on park projects and operations. With over 1,300 acres of riding area and over 80 miles of trails, Carnegie SVRA offers a fun and challenging experience for off-highway vehicle users of all skill levels. Enjoy the scenic views, wildlife sightings, and various amenities during your visit to Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area.

Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 7800 Cienega Road in Hollister, California, United States. This unique park features over 6,800 acres and nearly 200 miles of trails in scenic and varied terrain, including oak woodlands, rolling hills, lush canyons, and seasonal creeks. Visitors can enjoy off-highway vehicle (OHV) opportunities as well as designated hiking, bicycling, and equestrian trails. The park is open 365 days a year, with vehicle operation and day use available from sunrise to sunset. Day use fees are $5 per vehicle, while camping fees are $10 per vehicle per night. Dogs are allowed on leash in both day use and camping areas, as well as in the Nature Area and Mudstone Ranch.

Bluff Creek Dog Park is a spacious and well-maintained park located at 12604 Bluff Creek Drive in Los Angeles, California. This beloved institution is a haven for dogs and their owners, offering plenty of room for furry friends to run, play, and socialize off-leash. The park features separate areas for small and large dogs, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all pups. With beautiful landscaping, shaded seating areas, and convenient amenities such as water stations and waste bags, Bluff Creek Dog Park is the perfect destination for a fun outing with your four-legged companion. Come and enjoy the fresh air and friendly atmosphere at this popular dog park in the heart of Los Angeles.

Art District Dog Park is a vibrant and pet-friendly park located in the heart of the bustling Arts District in Los Angeles, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a unique and creative space for dogs and their owners to enjoy the outdoors and socialize with other furry friends. With its colorful murals, sculptures, and art installations, the park provides a one-of-a-kind backdrop for both playtime and relaxation. Situated at 1004 East 4th Street, Art District Dog Park is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and dog lovers alike.

Recreation Dog Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 5201 East 7th Street in Long Beach, California. This two-acre park is the City's first dog park, opened in 1996 near the golf course and Fly Casting Pond. Due to its popularity, it has been expanded by over one acre. The park is open from 6am to 10pm every day, with the exception of Mondays before noon for maintenance. Visitors can enjoy watering stations, benches, and tables throughout the park, as well as bags and pooper scoops for convenience. The park is also lighted at night for evening visits. For more information, visit Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine at 2760 N. Studebaker Rd. Long Beach, CA 90815-1697.

Griffith Park Dog Park is a spacious and well-maintained park located in Glendale, California, United States. This institution is specifically designed for dogs to enjoy off-leash play and socialization in a safe and controlled environment. The park features separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as water stations, waste bags, and plenty of seating for pet owners. With its beautiful surroundings and friendly atmosphere, Griffith Park Dog Park is the perfect place for dogs and their owners to spend quality time together.

Central Bark Dog Park is a beloved canine oasis located in West Covina, California. Situated at 1500 West Rowland Avenue, this park provides a safe and spacious environment for dogs to exercise, socialize, and play off-leash. With separate areas for small and large dogs, Central Bark Dog Park ensures that every furry friend can have a tail-wagging good time. The park features amenities such as water stations, waste bags, and shaded seating areas for pet parents. Whether your pup loves to run, fetch, or simply lounge in the sun, Central Bark Dog Park is the perfect spot for four-legged fun in West Covina.

Pat Merritt Dog Park is a beloved park located at 6181 Limonite Avenue in Riverside, California. This park is not your average park - it is specifically designed for our furry friends to enjoy. With plenty of open space for dogs to run and play, as well as agility equipment for them to test their skills, this park is a paradise for dog lovers. The park is named after Pat Merritt, a local dog enthusiast who wanted to create a safe and fun space for dogs to socialize and exercise. Whether you're a local resident or just passing through, Pat Merritt Dog Park is a must-visit tourist attraction for any dog owner.

Fiesta Island Dog Park is a popular tourist attraction located in San Diego, California. Situated at 1750 Fiesta Island Road, this park is a paradise for dogs and their owners alike. With plenty of open space to run and play, dogs can enjoy off-leash freedom in a safe and fenced-in environment. The park offers stunning views of the surrounding bay and city skyline, making it a picturesque spot for a day out with your furry friend. Whether you're a local resident or just visiting, Fiesta Island Dog Park is a must-visit destination for all dog lovers.