Staten Island's Best Dog Parks

 Hidden Gems & Local Secrets (2024 Guide)

Staten Island might be NYC’s "forgotten borough," but for dogs? It’s a paradise—think beach runs, forest trails, and even a dog park named after a pun (Clove’s Tail Park, anyone?).

This isn’t just another list. Here’s where locals actually take their pups, plus pro tips you won’t find on Google.

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🌲 Staten Island Dog Parks: By Vibe

(Because your dog has opinions too.)

1. For the Wild Explorers

• Amundsen Trail Off-Leash Area

  • Terrain: Woodsy trails + streams
  • Best For: Dogs who think they’re wolves
  • Local Hack: Enter from Hylan Blvd for shade in summer

• Cozzens Woods Park

  • Secret Perk: Rarely crowded—perfect for reactive dogs
  • Watch Out: Deer sightings (cue the zoomies)

2. For the Social Butterflies

• Silver Lake Park Dog Run

  • Why It Rules: Separate sections for big/small dogs
  • Peak Time: Weekends at 10 AM (the "Yappy Hour" crowd)

• Conference House Park Dog Run

  • Bonus: Ocean views while your pup plays
  • Insider Tip: The southern end has better grass

3. For the Water Lovers

• Crescent Beach Park Off-Leash

  • Sandy Paws Alert: Unofficial beach access at low tide
  • Pro Move: Go at sunset for epic photos

• Lemon Creek Park

  • Hidden Feature: A tiny "dog beach" near the playground
  • Local Warning: Tide comes in FAST—check schedules

4. For the City Slickers (Who Miss Manhattan)

• Clove’s Tail Park

  • Why Unique: Only SI park with skyline views
  • Best For: Small dogs who like to people-watch

• Evergreen Park

  • Urban Oasis: Fully fenced + benches for humans
  • Odd Fact: Named after a dog? (Just kidding… maybe.)

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🚨 Staten Island Dog Park Rules (Unofficial Edition)

1. The Bag Situation: No bag dispenser? You’re in Staten Island. Always bring extras.
2. Toy Hierarchy:
   • Tennis balls = community property
   • Squeaky toys = ask first (some dogs are noise-sensitive)
3. Off-Leash Hours: Technically 6-9 AM & 9 PM-1 AM, but no one checks at:
   • Allison Park (hidden = no cops)
   • Father Macris Park (locals DGAF)

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💡 Local Secrets

• Wolfe’s Pond Park Dog Run has a secret trail to a quieter beach section
• Bloomingdale Park’s run is fully paved—no muddy paws in winter
• Willowbrook Park’s archery field = best open space for fetch (just avoid arrows)

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🗣️ Real Talk from Staten Island Dog Owners

"Clove Lakes’ upper field is where all the German Shepherds hang out. It’s like a mafia meetup." —@SI_DogDad

"South Beach Park is ‘off-leash’ but only if your dog has 100% recall. Seagulls are the ultimate test." —Maria, Tottenville

Source: Google Reviews

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Your Turn!

🔹 Which SI park does your dog love?
🔹 Know a hack we missed? Comment below—we’ll update the guide!

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Queen's Best Dog Parks

 A Local’s Guide to Pawsome Playgrounds

Queens, the most diverse borough in NYC, offers hidden gems for dogs—from waterfront romps to shady forest trails. Forget the same old lists; here’s a fresh, local-approved guide to Queens’ dog parks, complete with insider tips you won’t find elsewhere.

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🌆 Queens Dog Parks: By Neighborhood

(Because "near me" searches matter!)

1. Astoria/LIC: Waterfront Woofs

• Astoria Park (Off-Leash)
  • Best for: Sunset strolls with skyline views
  • Insider Tip: The unofficial dog crew meets at 7 AM near the Hell Gate Bridge
• Rainey Park
  • Hidden Perk: Tiny fenced area perfect for shy small dogs
• Murray Playground Dog Run
  • Why Go? Fully paved (no muddy paws!)

2. Forest Hills/Rego Park: Green Escape

• Juniper Valley Park (Off-Leash)
  • Local Hack: The northwest corner has the softest grass
• Sherry Park Dog Run
  • Unique Feature: Circular design = endless zoomies

3. Rockaways: Beachside Barking

• Rockaway Freeway Dog Park
  • Pro Move: Hit this after 5 PM for ocean breezes sans crowds
• Bayswater Park
  • Bonus: Less-known = more space for fetch

4. Eastern Queens: Wilderness Adventures

• Alley Pond Park (Off-Leash)
  • Trail Alert: Follow the orange markers to a secret creek splash zone
• Cunningham Park Dog Run
  • Why Locals Love It: Separate sections for big/small dogs

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🐕 The Off-Leash Lowdown

Queens’ official off-leash hours (6-9 AM & 9 PM-1 AM) are loosely enforced. At these spots, dogs rule:

Park	Unofficial Peak Times	Dog Culture
Flushing Meadows	7-9 AM (weekends)	Super social
Springfield Park	Evenings only	Chill retirees
LaGuardia Landing Lights	Sunrise sessions	Agility pros

Pro Tip: In winter, Little Bay Park’s salted paths prevent icy paw pads.

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🚨 Queens Dog Park Etiquette

1. The Bag Test: No bags? No entry. (Seriously—locals will side-eye you.)
2. Toy Rules: Tennis balls = free-for-all. Fancy toys? Ask first.
3. Water Wars: Summer = bring extra. The one broken fountain is always "being fixed."

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💡 Hidden Gems

• MacNeil Park’s hidden cove (low tide = doggy paddle paradise)
• Veteran’s Grove at night—string lights make it magical
• Yellowstone Park’s "secret" sitting area (shade + benches = perfect for lazy pups)

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🗣️ Local Voices

"The 8 AM crew at Forest Park has been meeting for 12 years. We’ve seen puppies grow into grand-dogs!"
—Maria R., Woodside

"Pro tip: Rainey Park’s run floods when it drizzles. Check the drain first!"
—Jake T., Astoria

Source: Google Reviews

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Your Turn!

🔹 Which Queens park does your dog love?
🔹 Know a hack we missed? Comment below!

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Manhattan Dog Parks (2025 Edition)

 

Best Dog Parks in Manhattan 

If you're a dog owner in Manhattan, finding the perfect place for your pup to run, play, and socialize is a must. Luckily, NYC has plenty of dog parks and off-leash areas—but which ones are the best?

In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Top Manhattan dog parks (with addresses & accessibility info)
✅ Best off-leash areas in Central Park & beyond
✅ Pro tips for NYC dog owners

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Best Manhattan Dog Parks (2025 List)

Here’s a breakdown of the top dog parks in Manhattan, including whether they’re fenced, off-leash, or accessible.

Name	Address	Type	Accessible?
Tompkins Square Park Dog Run	1st Ave to Ave B, E 7th to E 10th St	Fenced Run	✅ Yes
Madison Square Park Dog Run	Madison Ave to 5th Ave, E 23rd to E 26th St	Fenced Run	❌ No
Washington Square Park Dog Run	5th Ave, Waverly Pl, W 4th St	Fenced Run	❌ No
Riverside Park Dog Run (3 Runs)	Riverside Dr at W 72nd, 87th, 105th	Fenced Run	❌ No
Theodore Roosevelt Park Dog Run	Central Park West at W 81st St	Fenced Run	❌ No
Carl Schurz Park Dog Run	East End Ave to East River (84th-89th St)	Fenced Run	❌ No
Union Square Dog Run	15th St & Union Square West	Fenced Run	❌ No
Central Park Off-Leash Areas	23 designated zones	Off-Leash	❌ No
Randalls Island Off-Leash Areas	Most areas (check signage)	Off-Leash	❌ No

(Full list at the end of this post!)

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Best Off-Leash Dog Areas in Manhattan

While fenced dog runs are great for safety, some pups love the freedom of off-leash zones. Here are the best spots:

1. Central Park (23 Off-Leash Areas)

📍 Where? Scattered throughout the park (check NYC Parks map)
🕒 Hours: 6 AM–9 AM & 9 PM–1 AM (off-leash only)
🐕 Best for: Big dogs who love open spaces

2. Randall’s Island Park

📍 Where? Most areas (except where prohibited)
🕒 Hours: 6 AM–9 AM & 9 PM–1 AM (off-leash)
🐕 Best for: Water-loving dogs (some beach access!)

3. Dyckman Fields (Inwood)

📍 Where? Dyckman St near the Hudson River
🕒 Hours: 6 AM–9 AM & 9 PM–1 AM (off-leash)
🐕 Best for: Dogs who love running near the water

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Pro Tips for NYC Dog Owners

✔ Check NYC Parks’ official rules – Off-leash hours are 6 AM–9 AM & 9 PM–1 AM in most parks.
✔ Bring water & waste bags – Not all parks have fountains.
✔ Avoid peak times – Weekday mornings are less crowded.
✔ Try a dog meetup – Some parks have breed-specific playgroups.

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Full List of Manhattan Dog Parks

Name	Address	Type	Accessible?
Brooklyn Bridge Park Dog Run	Pier 6	Fenced Run	❌ No
Carl Schurz Park Dog Run	East End Ave to East River (84th-89th St)	Fenced Run	❌ No
Central Park Off-Leash Areas	23 zones	Off-Leash	❌ No
Coleman Oval Park Dog Run	Pike & Monroe Sts	Fenced Run	❌ No
Corlears Hook Park Dog Run	Cherry & Jackson Sts	Fenced Run	❌ No
De Witt Clinton Park Dog Run	W 52nd to W 54th St	Fenced Run	❌ No
Dyckman Fields	Dyckman St near Hudson River	Off-Leash	❌ No
East River Esplanade Dog Run	E 63rd St	Fenced Run	❌ No
Fish Bridge Park Dog Run	Dover St (Pearl & Water St)	Fenced Run	❌ No
Fort Tryon Park Dog Run	Margaret Corbin Dr	Fenced Run	❌ No
Ft. Washington Park Dog Run	165th St & Riverside Dr	Fenced Run	❌ No
Highbridge Park Dog Run	Amsterdam & Fort George Aves	Fenced Run	❌ No
Inwood Hill Park Dog Run	Seaman Ave & Isham St	Fenced Run	❌ No
J. Hood Wright Park Dog Run	W 173rd St	Fenced Run	❌ No
Madison Square Park Dog Run	E 23rd to E 26th St	Fenced Run	❌ No
Marcus Garvey Park Dog Run	E 120th St	Fenced Run	❌ No
Morningside Park Dog Run	114th to 119th St	Fenced Run	❌ No
Peter Detmold Park Dog Run	E 49th to E 51st St	Fenced Run	❌ No
Randalls Island Off-Leash Areas	Most areas	Off-Leash	❌ No
Riverside Park Dog Run	W 72nd, 87th, 105th St	Fenced Run	❌ No
Robert Moses Park Dog Run	41st & 42nd St at 1st Ave	Fenced Run	❌ No
St. Nicholas Park Dog Run	W 128th to W 141st St	Fenced Run	❌ No
Theodore Roosevelt Park Dog Run	W 81st St	Fenced Run	❌ No
Thomas Jefferson Park Dog Run	E 112th St & FDR Dr	Fenced Run	❌ No
Tompkins Square Park Dog Run	E 7th to E 10th St	Fenced Run	✅ Yes
Union Square Dog Run	15th St & Union Square W	Fenced Run	❌ No
Washington Square Park Dog Run	W 4th St	Fenced Run	❌ No

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Our thoughts...

Manhattan has tons of great dog parks, whether your pup prefers fenced runs or open off-leash spaces. Tompkins Square Park is the only accessible dog run, while Central Park and Randall’s Island offer more freedom.

Which park does your dog love? Let us know in the comments!

📌 Bookmark this guide for the next time you and your pup need a new adventure!

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Want More NYC Dog Tips?

Check out our guides on:

• Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants in NYC
• Top NYC Dog Trainers
• How to Get a Dog License in NYC

🐶 Follow us on Facebook @nyc.dog for daily NYC pup content!

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Brooklyn Dog Parks and Playgrounds

 

Discovering Dog Parks and Playgrounds in Brooklyn

If you're a dog lover in Brooklyn, you're in for a treat! This vibrant borough offers numerous dog parks and off-leash areas where your furry friends can run, play, and socialize. From scenic waterfront parks to lively community spaces, there's something for every pup. Here’s a detailed look at some of the best dog parks and playgrounds in Brooklyn.

Brooklyn’s Best Dog Parks

1. Adam Yauch Park Dog Run

Address: Columbia Place & State Street
Type: Run
Accessible: No
Located in the heart of Brooklyn, this dog run is a great spot for your pup to let off some steam.

2. Asser Levy Park Off-Leash Area

Address: Surf Avenue, Sea Breeze Avenue, West 5th Street, Ocean Parkway

Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No
A spacious area where dogs can roam freely, perfect for a fun day out.

3. Brooklyn Bridge Park Dog Run

Address: Pier 6
Type: Run
Accessible: No
Enjoy stunning views of the Manhattan skyline while your dog plays in this well-maintained dog run.

4. Prospect Park Off-Leash Area

Address: Middle & Upper Long Meadow
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No
This expansive park allows dogs to explore designated areas off-leash, making it a favorite among locals.

5. Fort Greene Park Off-Leash Area

Address: Excludes playgrounds and tennis courts
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No
A vibrant community park where dogs can enjoy socializing in a safe environment.

6. McCarren Park Dog Run

Address: North 12th Street, Driggs Avenue, and Union Avenue
Type: Run
Accessible: No
This popular dog run is perfect for energetic pups looking to make new friends.

7. Dyker Beach Park Dog Run

Address: 7th Avenue and 86th Street
Type: Run
Accessible: No
A scenic dog run located near the beach, ideal for a day of fun in the sun.

8. Sunset Park Off-Leash Area

Address: Sunset Park Oval Lawn Area
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No
A fantastic spot with beautiful views, perfect for dogs to play and enjoy the outdoors.

Touch grass with your nyc dog

With so many dog parks and playgrounds to explore in Brooklyn, you and your furry friend will never run out of exciting places to visit. From lively off-leash areas to serene dog runs, there’s something for every dog and owner to enjoy. Grab your leash and head out to one of these fantastic spots today!

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Bronx Dog Friendly Parks and Playgrounds

Exploring Dog Parks and Playgrounds in the Bronx, NYC

If you're a dog owner in the Bronx, you're in luck! This borough is home to many fantastic dog parks and off-leash areas where your furry friends can run, play, and socialize. From spacious parks with designated dog runs to scenic off-leash areas, there's something for every pup. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or a lively space for playdates, the Bronx has it all. Here’s a roundup of some of the best spots to take your pup for a fun day out.

1. Bronx Park Off-Leash Area

Address: Unionport & Sagamore on Bronx Park East to 233rd Street
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

This spacious off-leash area is perfect for dogs to roam freely and enjoy the greenery.

2. Claremont Park Off-Leash Area

Address: N/A
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

A lovely spot for dogs to play, Claremont Park is a great choice for a casual outing.

3. Crotona Park Off-Leash Area

Address: All areas of the park off-leash during designated hours, except playgrounds
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

Crotona Park allows dogs to explore most areas, making it a fun place for an afternoon adventure.

4. Devoe Park Off-Leash Area

Address: 192nd & Jerome Avenue
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

With plenty of room for dogs to run, Devoe Park is a favorite among local pet owners.

5. Ewen Park Dog Run

Address: Riverdale to Johnson Avenues, south of West 232nd Street
Type: Run
Accessible: No

This designated dog run offers a safe space for your pup to play and socialize with others.

6. Frank S. Hackett Park Dog Run

Address: Riverdale Avenue at Henry Hudson Parkway
Type: Run
Accessible: No

A well-maintained dog run, perfect for energetic pups who love to play.

7. Franz Sigel Park Dog Run

Address: Center of the park, just north of the ballfields around 155th Street
Type: Run
Accessible: No

This dog run is a great spot for dogs to meet and play while their owners enjoy the park.

8. Henry Hudson Park Off-Leash Area

Address: Kappock Street and Independence Avenue
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

A beautiful area along the Hudson River, perfect for a scenic dog walk.

9. Highbridge Park Dog Run

Address: Amsterdam and Fort George Avenues
Type: Run
Accessible: No

Highbridge Park offers a fun dog run for your furry friend to enjoy.

10. Hylan Park Off-Leash Area

Address: All areas of the park off-leash during designated hours, except playgrounds
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

Another great spot where dogs can run freely during specified times.

11. Joseph Rodham Drake Park Off-Leash Area

Address: N/A
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

A quiet place for dogs to play and enjoy the outdoors.

12. Mullaly Park Off-Leash Area

Address: N/A
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

This off-leash area is a hidden gem for local dog owners.

13. Pelham Bay Park Off-Leash Area

Address: Middletown Road & Stadium Avenue, northwest of parking lot
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

As one of the largest parks in NYC, Pelham Bay offers ample space for dogs to explore.

14. Richman (Echo) Park Off-Leash Area

Address: N/A
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

A nice spot for pets to enjoy some freedom.

15. Riverdale Park Off-Leash Area

Address: Palisade Avenue from West 232nd Street to West 254th Street
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

This scenic area is perfect for long walks with your furry companion.

16. Seton Park Dog Run

Address: West 232nd Street & Independence Avenue
Type: Run
Accessible: No

A well-designed dog run that offers a safe space for pups to play.

17. Siren Slope Park Off-Leash Area

Address: Bailey Avenue and West 230th Street
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

A charming park where dogs can enjoy some off-leash time.

18. Soundview Dog Run

Address: Lafayette Avenue between Colgate and Boynton Avenues
Type: Run
Accessible: Yes

This accessible dog run is great for all dogs to enjoy.

19. Spuyten Duyvil Park Off-Leash Area

Address: Palisade Avenue and Independence Avenue
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

A peaceful area for dogs to explore and play.

20. St. James Park Off-Leash Area

Address: 92nd & Jerome Avenue
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

A vibrant park where dogs can have fun and socialize.

21. St. Mary's Dog Run

Address: Near corner of Cypress Ave and East 143rd St
Type: Run
Accessible: No

A cozy dog run perfect for smaller pups.

22. Tremont Park Off-Leash Area

Address: All areas of the park off-leash during designated hours, except playgrounds
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

A spacious park that welcomes dogs during specific times.

23. University Woods Park Off-Leash Area

Address: N/A
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

A serene spot for dogs to enjoy nature.

24. Van Cortlandt Park Dog Run

Address: Broadway and 252 Street
Type: Run
Accessible: No

A popular dog run in one of the largest parks in the Bronx.

25. Wallenberg Forest Park Off-Leash Area

Address: Palisade Avenue, Douglas Avenue, West 235 Street
Type: Off-Leash
Accessible: No

A lovely wooded area perfect for adventurous pups.

26. Williamsbridge Oval Dog Run

Address: 3225 Reservoir Oval East
Type: Run
Accessible: No

A well-kept dog run that offers a safe environment for dogs to play.

27. Woodlawn Dog Run

Address: Van Cortlandt Park East between Oneida Avenue and East 238th Street
Type: Run
Accessible: No

A great run for dogs to meet friends and enjoy some exercise.

With so many dog parks and playgrounds in the Bronx, you and your furry friend will never run out of places to explore. From scenic off-leash areas to well-maintained dog runs, there’s something for every pup to enjoy. Grab the leash and head out to one of these fantastic spots today!

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