Looking for the perfect spot to let your furry friend run, play, and socialize in Central Ohio? You’re in luck! Columbus and its surrounding areas are home to some of the best dog parks, offering everything from shaded trails and swimming ponds to agility courses and splash pads. Whether you’re searching for “dog parks in Columbus Ohio,” “dog walking trails near me,” or “dog-friendly parks near me,” this guide has you covered. We’ve compiled a list of top-rated dog parks with features like shade, water access, parking, and more to help you and your pup enjoy the great outdoors. So grab the leash, pack some treats, and get ready to explore the best dog parks Central Ohio has to offer!
1. Friends of Alum Creek Dog Park
- Address: 3993 Hollenback Rd, Lewis Center, OH 43035
- Website: Friends of Alum Creek Dog Park
- Description: A premier dog park with fenced areas for small and large dogs, including access to Alum Creek Lake for swimming. Well-maintained by volunteers, this park offers a mix of grassy and beach areas.
- Features:
- Shade from trees
- Water feature (lake access for swimming)
- Hose for cleaning muddy dogs
- Shared toys and water bowls
- Monthly clean-ups and poop bags provided
- Parking available
2. Big Walnut Dog Park
- Address: 5000 E. Livingston Ave., Columbus, OH 43227
- Website: City of Columbus Recreation and Parks
- Description: A spacious park with separate areas for small and large dogs, located near Big Walnut Creek.
- Features:
- Shaded areas
- Water feature (pond for swimming)
- Portable restrooms and picnic tables
- Parking available
3. Glacier Ridge Dog Park
- Address: 9801 Hyland Croy, Plain City, OH 43064
- Website: Columbus Metro Parks
- Description: A 2.5-acre dog park with open fields, wooded areas, and paved paths for exploration.
- Features:
- Shade from trees
- Drinking fountains for dogs
- Paved walking paths
- Parking available
4. Godown Dog Park
- Address: 6099 Godown Rd, Columbus, OH 43235
- Website: City of Columbus Recreation and Parks
- Description: A large park with 4.5 acres for big dogs and 1 acre for small dogs, featuring plenty of open space and wooded areas.
- Features:
- Shade from trees
- Dog water fountain
- Benches and paved parking
- Parking available
5. Heritage Trail Dog Park
- Address: 7262 Hayden Run Rd, Hilliard, OH 43026
- Website: Heritage Trail Dog Park
- Description: A well-maintained park with agility equipment, a doggie splash pad, and separate areas for small and large dogs.
- Features:
- Shaded areas and benches
- Water feature (splash pad)
- Agility equipment
- Parking available
6. Scioto Audubon Dog Park
- Address: 400 W. Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43215
- Website: Scioto Audubon Metro Park
- Description: A 2.5-acre dog park with agility courses, digging sand pits, and separate areas for small and large dogs.
- Features:
- Shade from trees
- Water fountain and sand pit
- Agility equipment
- Parking available
7. Spindler Road Dog Park
- Address: 2121 Spindler Rd, Hilliard, OH 43026
- Website: City of Columbus Recreation and Parks
- Description: A spacious park with separate areas for large and small dogs, featuring a pond and paved walking trails.
- Features:
- Shade from trees
- Water feature (pond)
- Paved walking trails
- Parking available
8. Three Creeks Dog Park
- Address: 3860 Bixby Rd, Groveport, OH 43125
- Website: Columbus Metro Parks
- Description: A large park with separate areas for small and large dogs, drinking fountains, and walking trails.
- Features:
- Shade from trees
- Drinking fountains
- Walking trails
- Parking available
9. Wheeler Memorial Dog Park
- Address: 725 Thurber Dr. W, Columbus, OH 43215
- Website: City of Columbus Recreation and Parks
- Description: A fully fenced park with rotating sections to maintain turf quality, offering open spaces and walking paths.
- Features:
- Shade from trees
- Water station
- Walking paths
- Parking available
10. Pizzurro Park Dog Park
- Address: 940 Pizzurro Park Rd, Gahanna, OH 43230
- Website: Gahanna Parks and Rec
- Description: A 4-acre park with a pond for swimming and separate areas for small and large dogs.
- Features:
- Shade from trees
- Water feature (pond)
- Agility area
- Parking available
Additional Tips for Dog Owners:
- Bring Your Own Water Bowl: While many parks provide water, it’s safer to bring your own bowl to prevent the spread of bacteria17.
- Check Park Rules: Always follow posted rules, especially regarding leash requirements outside fenced areas16.
- Visit Early or Late: Parks are less crowded during off-peak hours, making it easier for shy or reactive dogs to enjoy their time12.
