Best Bay Area Dog Parks (2025 Guide)
Searching for the best off-leash dog parks in the Bay Area? This 2025 guide rounds up our favourite spots—spanning East Bay, South Bay, the Peninsula, and iconic dog-friendly beaches in San Francisco.
Whether you're near Fremont, San Jose, Richmond, or the city itself, you'll find a park that lets your pup zoom, sniff, and socialise. Below are six must-visit locations, complete with size, off-leash rules, parking tips, and on-site amenities to help plan your next adventure.
From sprawling East Bay dog parks like Point Isabel to cosy South Bay dog runs in Santa Clara, we've covered every corner so you can choose the perfect play spot.
Top Bay Area Dog Parks
| Park | Location | Size | Off-Leash | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Park Dog Park | Fremont | 1.2 acres (large) 0.02 acres (small) |
Yes | Dual gates, benches, water fountains, big-dog & small-dog area |
| Reed Street Dog Park | Santa Clara | 0.5 acres | Yes | Benches, shade, big-dog & small-dog area |
| Point Isabel Regional Shoreline | Richmond | 23 acres | Yes | Bay views, trails, waste stations |
| Fort Funston | San Francisco | Coastal dunes | Yes | Beach access, hiking trails, parking |
| Pulgas Ridge Preserve | San Carlos | 17.5 acres off-leash | Yes | Hiking trails, ridge top views |
| Redwood Regional Park | Oakland | Varied wooded areas | Partial (leash) | Picnic spots, forest trails |
Tips for Visiting
- Bring plenty of fresh water for you and your pup.
- Always carry waste bags and clean up after your dog.
- Verify each park's rules before you go.
- Visit on weekdays to avoid peak crowds.
Ready for more doggy fun? 🚀 Take our 3-minute dog personality test !
Related reads: Los Angeles dog parks guide • New York dog parks guide • Indoor dog enrichment games
FAQ
Q: Which Bay Area dog park is best for off-leash play?
A: Point Isabel Regional Shoreline offers 23 acres of off-leash space with bay views and long trails.
Q: Are there small-dog areas?
A: Yes—Central Park (Fremont) and Reed Street (Santa Clara) both have dedicated small-dog sections.
Q: Do dogs need vaccines or permits?
A: Most cities require a current rabies vaccine and a dog license tag; rangers may spot-check.
Q: Is parking free?
A: Many parks are free; some areas (e.g., Fort Funston weekends) may have fees or limited spaces.
References: East Bay Parks: Point Isabel • SF Rec & Park: Fort Funston