Best Washington DC Dog Parks (2025 Guide)
Washington DC offers excellent off-leash dog parks across the District, from urban turf runs to waterfront views.
This quick guide highlights top locations, convenient neighborhoods, hours, and amenities—so you can pick the right spot for your dog.
Top Dog Parks in Washington DC
| Park | Neighborhood | Size | Standout Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shaw Dog Park | Shaw | 0.5 acres | Fenced areas, decomposed granite, community vibe | Social dogs, quick weekday runs |
| The Yards (Navy Yard) Dog Park | Navy Yard | 0.4 acres | Water features, turf, riverfront paths nearby | Water-loving dogs, city walkers |
| S Street Dog Park | Dupont Circle | 0.2 acres | Shaded seating, secure gates, small-dog friendly | Small to medium dogs, shy pups |
| Newark Street Dog Park | Cathedral Heights | 0.6 acres | Separate areas, shade, adjacent recreation center | Families, mixed-size groups |
| Langdon Dog Park | Langdon | 0.5 acres | Wooded feel, agility elements, parking lot | High-energy dogs, practice agility |
| Congressional Cemetery K9 Corps | Hill East | Membership | Historic grounds, large open space, community events | Regulars seeking a membership community |
Neighborhood Breakdown
Downtown & Central
Shaw Dog Park is one of the District’s most active hubs with a friendly, well-organized community and separate areas for large and small dogs.
S Street Dog Park near Dupont offers shade and a calm pace, making it great for smaller or more reserved pups during off-peak hours.
Waterfront & Capitol Riverfront
The Yards Dog Park pairs clean turf with playful water features and access to scenic Anacostia Riverwalk paths for post-park strolls.
Hill East regulars love the Congressional Cemetery K9 Corps membership program for its large, safe grounds and tight-knit community.
Northwest DC
Newark Street Dog Park brings room to run, shade, and convenient adjacent amenities, ideal for families and mixed-size playgroups.
Northeast DC
Langdon Dog Park has a more wooded feel with agility features and easy parking—good for energetic dogs who need structured play.
Pro Tips for DC Dog Park Visits
- Beat the heat: DC summers are humid—go early or late and bring water.
- Check rules: DPR and NPS sites post hours, licensing, and vaccination requirements.
- Footing matters: Turf and gravel drain better after rain; bring a towel.
- Quiet hours: Some parks border residences—respect posted quiet times.
- Peak times: Weeknights after work are busiest; mornings are calmer for shy dogs.
Plan Your Visit & Next Steps
Want park picks that fit your dog’s personality?
🚀 Take our 3-minute Dogality Test to get activity ideas tailored to your pup.
Planning a trip? Explore more city guides: New York, Boston, and San Diego.
New to off-leash etiquette? Read our enrichment and training picks in DIY enrichment games and personality-based training.