Ready to see what the Atlanta area offers and meet new dog friends for your mutt? Why not visit a dog park?
From the summit of Stone Mountain to the area’s winding rivers, Atlanta’s home to countless outdoor oases, including many that allow off-leash fun for dogs.
We’ll detail the best dog parks in the Atlanta area, share tips on picking the right park for your pooch, and run through pup park manners below.
15 Best Dog Parks in Atlanta
There’s a great Atlanta dog park for everyone, whether you’re after an urban hangout or a wooded retreat with your woof. Check out our picks for the best dog parks in Atlanta and discover which matches your vibe.
1. Freedom Barkway Dog Park
About: The Old Fourth Ward neighborhood’s home to this sniffer stomping ground featuring separate areas for large and small dogs and stunning cityscape views. Benches are available to rest your feet as your pup plays, but as one of the busier dog parks in Atlanta, spots can be scarce during peak hours!
Website: https://www.instagram.com/freedombarkwaydogpark/?hl=en
Address: 523 Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Size: 2 acres
Open Hours: 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Special Notes:
- The terrain includes grass, dirt, and pavement (it can get messy after the rain!)
- Water fountains and shaded spaces are available
- Entirely fenced with chain link and featuring double-gated entries
2. Chattapoochee Dog Park
About: While technically northeast of the city in Duluth, this dog park deserves a trip with water fountains for dogs to drink from and splash in and agility equipment, letting your pup try a paw at something new during his visit. Tucked into a forested area, it’s a great place to escape the city’s concrete jungle with your pupperino.
Website: https://www.duluthga.net/business_detail_T5_R200.php
Address: 4291 Rogers Bridge Rd, Duluth, GA 30097
Size: 1 acre
Open Hours: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Special Notes:
- Fully fenced with average-height chain link
- Double-gated entries offer extra security
- Features separate spaces for large and small dogs to keep the fun safer for everyone
- The mix of grass and dirt terrain can get muddy at times (especially near the doggy fountains)
- Well-shaded with several benches for pet parents to relax
Georgia’s home to several potentially dangerous animals, including snakes, coyotes, and hawks.
To keep your canine safe from wildlife at the dog park (and in your backyard) in Atlanta:
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- Avoid visiting during early morning and evening hours. This window is prime hunting time for many predators (chiefly coyotes and hawks). So exercise caution, particularly with small doggos.
- Consider visiting parks with another pet owner. Playing with a pal is typically safer than solo park visits – particularly in forested parks.
- Monitor your dog at all times. The biggest deterrent to a predator is your presence. Watch your pup at the park; don’t let him out of sight.
Check out more information on safe practices around wildlife with our articles on coyote deterrents and how to protect your dog from hawks.
3. Brook Run Dog Park
About: Located 18 miles northeast of the city, this 110-acre park has a fully fenced wooded space for dogs to explore off-leash. Double-gated entries keep canines better contained, while water points and waste stations make caring for your canine easier.
Address: 4770 N Peachtree Rd, Dunwoody, GA 30338
Size: 2 acres
Open Hours: 7:00 AM to sunset
Special Notes:
- Separate spaces for large and small dogs
- The terrain is a mix of dirt, gravel, and mulch (it can get muddy!)
- Ample seating for pet parents
- Nearby walking paths for leashed strolls
4. Newtown Dream Dog Park
About: Entirely fenced and floored with artificial grass, this pup play place with separate spaces for large and small dogs is one of the best-maintained ones in Atlanta. This park actually won a nationwide dog park contest sponsored by Purina Beneful, so it’s loaded with tons excellent canine enrichment activities, like splashing water fountains and obstacles to explore.
Address: 3150 Old Alabama Rd, Johns Creek, GA 30022
Size: 1 acre
Open Hours: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM (Closed Wednesday until 10:00 AM for maintenance)
Special Notes:
- All visiting dogs must wear a collar with current license and rabies tags
- Benches and shade for human guests
- Drinking fountains for dogs and people
- 2-mile loop trail beyond the dog park for leashed mutt walks
5. Canine Crossing Dog Park
About: This grassy park lets your four-footer stretch his legs, from unleashing dog zoomies in open spaces to exploring the unique obstacles within its fenced space. In addition to grass, you can find graveled areas and dirt, so we recommend packing a towel for a post-play wipe-down in case your mutt gets muddy.
Website: https://www.cityofsouthfultonga.gov/2478/Canine-Crossing-Dog-Park
Address: 4951 Camp Dr, College Park, GA 30349
Size: Unknown
Open Hours: 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Special Notes:
- Divided into large and small dog play zones
- Watering area for doggos helps your hound stay hydrated as he plays
- Human amenities include benches and nearby bathrooms
- Fenced with average-height chain link
6. Brookhaven Dog Park
About: Leashed dogs are welcome throughout this 20-acre park, but the star of the show is the roomy off-leash area with its mix of grass, dirt, and paved terrain. Lots of open space makes rounds of fetch a breeze, while a regular rotation of Rover visitors means your pup will almost always have a fur buddy to spend time with.
Website: https://brookhavendogpark.org/
Address: 4158 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA, US, 30319
Size: 5 acres
Open Hours: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Special Notes:
- Water-loving doggos will appreciate the stream that cuts through the park (pack a towel!)
- Fully fenced by average-height chain link
- Park offers hiking trails for leashed adventures
7. Woofstock Park
About: Venture to this fur kid fun zone to let your city-slicker sniffer romp off-leash within its woodchip-floored area with obstacles to climb and sniff. You can also enjoy a leashed scenic stroll at one of the nearby trails that weave through the surrounding forest; just be sure your dog has a darn-good tick collar.
Website: https://woodstock.recdesk.com/Community/Page?pageId=27836
Address: 150 Dupree Rd Woodstock, GA 30188
Size: 5 acres
Open Hours: 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Special Notes:
- Entirely fenced with tall chain link
- Spigots on site for doggo drinking water
- Water fountains, benches, and bathrooms available for human guests
- Separate large and small dog areas
- Woodchip terrain can be a concern if your dog eats things he shouldn’t
8. Adair Dog Park
About: Dash to Decatur and introduce your floof to new friends at this busier barker park fully fenced by chain link. Unfortunately, there’s no separate space for small, senior, or shy dogs, so it’s best for active doggos who are social butterflies.
Website: https://decaturga.com/activeliving/page/dog-parks
Address: 600 W Trinity Pl, Decatur, GA 30030
Size: Roughly 1 acre
Open Hours: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Special Notes:
- Well-shaded by lots of trees, but it can stay wet for an extended period after rain
- Street parking is limited, so expect to walk farther than expected during peak hours
- Limit of three dogs per visitor
- Some benches for pet parents
- Dog water fountain on site, but it appears to be non-functioning more often than not, so we recommend packing water just in case
- Several pet parents reported lots of mosquito activity (be sure your pup’s heartworm prevention is current!)
9. Fetch Park
About: Membership to this mutt fun plex offers peace of mind since pet parents must show current vaccination records for rabies, distemper, and Bordetella, plus proof of spaying or neutering for pups older than eight months. Prices start at $10 daily per pup, with monthly and annual passes also available.
Website: https://fetchpark.com/ (multiple locations)
Address: 1295 Chattahoochee Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 (5 Georgia locations total)
Size: About 1 acre
Open Hours: Monday to Friday from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Saturdays from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, and Sundays from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Special Notes:
- No outside food or toys are permitted
- Entirely fenced with secure wood panels
- Coffee bar for pet parents to fuel up
- Community events let you and your pup meet new friends
- Lots of seating, including benches and chairs
- Well-lit and dotted with TVs for checking scores as your pupper plays
- Hours may vary during times of high or frigid temperatures
- The terrain is a mix of artificial turf and pavement, keeping canines cleaner than traditional dog parks
10. Oakhurst Dog Park
About: This dog park offers open and wooded spaces for your dog to discover within its fenced-off-leash area. Benches await pet parents, while your playful pooch can enjoy on-site water bowls and tennis balls.
Website: https://oakhurstdogpark.com/
Address: 450 E Lake Dr, Decatur, GA 30030
Size: About 1 city block
Open Hours: Open 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM; Closed Fridays until 11:00 AM for maintenance
Special Notes:
- No separate space for small pups
- Dirt and woodchip terrain can get muddy
- Only three dogs or fewer per pet parent
- Dogs are not allowed on the nearby Boys & Girls Club property
- All handlers must be older than 14
- Poop bag dispensers are available, but we always recommend bringing your own
- Hose area outside the dog run for rinsing your Rover off if he gets dirty
11. Atlantic Station Dog Park
About: Sturdy metal fencing with closely spaced slats surrounds this quaint dog park, while a double-gated entry and great lighting also keep it safe. Artificial grass covers most of the space, though the dirt perimeter can get messy in wet weather (or if your doggo is a digger!)
Website: https://www.facebook.com/AtlanticStationDogPark/
Address: State St Nw, 17th St NW, Atlanta, GA 30363
Size: Unknown
Open Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Special Notes:
- Fake fire hydrants for dogs to sniff and “water”
- Benches, waste cleanup stations, and water refill points are available
- Parking can be a problem during peak hours, as it’s street parking only
12. Burger Park
About: This roomy no-frills pup park has separate sections for large and small dogs, plus benches and water fountains for pet parents. Mostly open space, it’s a great choice for yardless yappers to enjoy off-leash time and fetch.
Website: https://www.smyrnaga.gov/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/1019/2017
Address: 680 Glendale Pl, Smyrna, GA 30080
Size: 3.7 acres
Open Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Special Notes:
- Entirely fenced with chain link and features a double-gated entry
- Grass and dirt terrain, though water tends to pool after rain, making for an incredibly messy visit
- Poop bag dispensers on site
13. Piedmont Park
About: This rugged Rover space features dirt, grass, and woodchip terrain, plus the shade of a few trees, giving your doggo a taste of the woods right in the city. Water fixtures allow you to hydrate your woof, and its assortment of stone obstacles and sniffing points provide enrichment.
Website: https://piedmontpark.org/dog-parks/
Address: 400 Park Dr. NE, Atlanta, GA, US, 30306
Size: 3 acres (the entire park is much larger – 185 acres)
Open Hours: 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Special Notes:
- Separate play areas for small and large doggos
- Human amenities include bathrooms, benches, and shaded areas
- Limit of three dogs per visitor
- No prong collars are allowed
- Dogs aren’t permitted to swim in nearby Clara Meer
- All doggos must be wearing a collar with current ID, licensing, and vaccination tags
- Stocked poop bag dispensers are available onsite for easier cleanup
14. Frank Boone Dog Park
About: You’ll find this pupper play place within the 130-acre Swift-Cantrell Park, offering three separate play areas for small, medium, and large-sized mutts. While not within Atlanta city limits, this suburban dog park delivers a day of fun and less foot traffic than downtown doggo zones.
Website: https://www.kennesaw-ga.gov/swift-cantrell-park/
Address: 3140 Old 41 Hwy NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144
Size: 1.5 acres
Open Hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Special Notes:
- Entirely enclosed by a 6-foot chain link fence
- The double-gated entrance offers extra security
- Watering stations, a dog wash hose, and poop bag dispensers are available
- All visiting dogs must wear a collar with visible licensing and vaccination tags
- Dirt, grass, and woodchip terrain can turn into a mud pit after rain (and near the watering areas!)
15. Kirkwood Dog Park
About: Off-leash fun awaits at the fully fenced Kirkwood Dog Park within Gilliam Park. This shady canine cruising zone has trees to zoom between and mulch and dirt terrain, making for a muddy trip after rain and near the dog water fountains.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/kirkwooddogparkatl/
Address: 1694 Wade Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30317
Size: 0.5 acres
Open Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Special Notes:
- Separate spaces for large and small pups
- Area trails are great for leashed hikes before or after your dog park visit
- Onsite events like adoption get-togethers and Howl-o-Ween parties
What To Look For In A Dog Park?
A successful trip to the dog park starts with doing a little homework, as you want to be sure a potential park is safe, secure, and well-suited to your woof. The right park will keep your canine contained and content.
When exploring dog park options, consider the following:
- Fencing height and style: A 6-foot fence minimum is best for large pups, with chain link, solid wood, or closely-slatted metal being the most secure styles. Some canines can climb chain link, however. With little woofers, you’ll want to watch for gaps they can squeeze through, either between slats or at the base of the fencing.
- Fencing condition: The tallest fence won’t contain any doggos if it’s in poor shape. Skimming reviews for this information can help, but checking in person is recommended. Look for loose boards or holes that escape artist doggos can exploit.
- Park rules: Every dog park has its rules, with some enforcing breed restrictions or dog limits per pet parent and others requiring a membership to visit. Food and toys are frequently banned as well. Learn these rules of the road in advance to avoid surprises.
- Park setup: The best dog parks have separate spaces for large and small dogs, protecting little dogs against accidental injury and predatory aggression. Many also have sections for seniors or shy dogs, keeping them away from rowdier Rovers.
- Lighting: Great lighting is essential for safety if you plan on visiting the dog park in the early morning or at night. It makes it easier to watch your dog and spot risks, like wildlife or holes.
- Human amenities: A bench makes watching your dog play easier, as does an onsite bathroom or water fountain for people. Your canine will appreciate having a comfier caretaker, too.
Visiting a dog park in person without your pup at first is always a great idea. This lets you focus solely on the park instead of your floof, plus it avoids exposing him to hazards you may encounter at an unknown park. Check pet parent reviews online, too, as they often mention things like cleanliness, wildlife, and bonuses you might miss during a visit, like events.
Dog Park Manner Musts
In addition to posted rules at the dog park, there are unspoken ones to follow at any off-leash area, commonly called dog park etiquette. Knowing these laws of the land is essential if you don’t want to upset other paw parents enjoying the space.
When visiting the dog park:
- Monitor your dog. Focus on your floof when he’s off-leash and ensure he’s not bugging other pups, jumping on people, or planning an escape. You always want to ensure he isn’t digging or damaging the park.
- Take responsibility for your pup. If you doggo bites someone or another dog, you’re liable. You’re also responsible if your dog damages anything. It can get pricey, too, which is why you should only visit with a well-manned, friendly dog.
- Respect other owners and dogs. Treat pet parents with kindness and refrain from correcting other people’s canines. If a dog’s bothersome, give his owner a friendly head’s up.
- Only bring a healthy pooch. The dog park isn’t the place for a pup who isn’t feeling his best. Rather than risk getting other dogs sick (and making your mutt feel worse), stay home and let him rest up and heal before his next outing.
- Ensure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations. Most dog parks require your dog to wear a valid rabies tag, but others may require current distemper and Bordetella vaccinations. Ask your vet if you’re unsure what vaccines your dog should get before a dog park trip, as these infectious diseases are nothing to sniff at.
- Use flea and tick preventative. Dog parks can foster some unpleasant surprises like fleas and ticks. Using these products prevents putrid pests from riding home with your pooch and can save him from a tickborne illness, like Ehrlichiosis or Lyme disease.
- Clean up after your dog. While it’s not fun to scoop poop, it comes with having a pup. Bring extra poop bags, too, as sometimes your sniffer will take extra bathroom breaks from all the exercise and excitement. Cleaning up also includes filling in holes your dog digs and cleaning up toys he may shred.
- Respect the rules. Ignoring a park’s posted rules signals to other pet parents that you think they don’t apply to you, which isn’t the best way to make friends. Remember that everyone is at the park to have a great time, and rules are there to ensure things remain that way, no matter how you feel about some of them.
- Use a leash outside off-leash areas. Leash laws keep your dog, other dogs, and people safe. When you’re beyond a designated off-leash zone, use one. Not doing so may risk a fine.
- Leave if your dog’s too boisterous. Sometimes, dogs feel big emotions that are hard to control, like excitement. This can lead to him hopping all over people and other dogs, potentially hurting someone. When your dog is this rowdy, it’s best to call it a day and work out the energy with a walk (or maybe even play some walking games) on your way home.
- Only bring well-manned, dog-friendly doggos. If your Rover is remotely dog-selective or nervous, the dog park isn’t the place for him. Visiting puts your pup and others at risk, and at the very least, it’ll stress him out. Instead, stick to solo enrichment activities, like a nature walk on a long leash for sniffing new scents.
Have you explored any of our best dog parks in Atlanta picks? Is there another pupper play area you love in the city or surrounding area? Share it with us in the comments. We’d love to hear about it!
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