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Adobe Stock | Photo by Przemyslaw Iciak
Four-legged friends will love the chance to run wild in the outdoors at these pet-approved dog parks in the Hudson Valley.
Additional reporting by Greta Stuckey
Adventure to the outdoors with your pets and let them run free at the dog parks of the Hudson Valley. Some parks even allow dogs to run off the leash within the fenced areas. What’s more, when you bring your dog to the park, there are opportunities to socialize with fellow dog lovers and other pups. For the pups, there are infinite new sights and smells to experience away from the house. Once you find the perfect park for you and your four-legged pals, be on the lookout for special pet events, including meet-ups, at the community spots.
As for what to bring, don’t forget to tote plenty of water, a leash (as some parks require them), enough refuse bags, and maybe a treat or two for the adventure. While out, visit dog-friendly restaurants only a few minutes away from the parks in towns like Fishkill, Hopewell Junction, Mount Tremper, and New Paltz.
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Beacon Dog Park
Beacon
For members only, this one-acre site in Memorial Park has separate areas for big and small pooches. Beacon Dog Park says pups can be off the leash in the park as long as the owner assumes the risks. The yearly membership fee costs $55 and a six-month registration costs $35.
Beekman Dog Park at Doherty Park
Beekman
This park requires a membership from the Town of Beekman, which has different fees for residents and non-residents, and all dogs must have proper shots and vaccinations prior to joining. Residents from Beekman can get a membership for $45 per dog while non-residents can get one for $90 per dog. Inside the park, pups roam free, although they need to be back on the leash when exiting. In addition, there are two separate areas for large dogs (over 25lbs) and small dogs (under 25lbs). On the way home, stop for a vanilla cone at Joe’s Dairy Bar & Grill in Hopewell Junction.
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Bunker Hill Dog Park
Athens
At Bunker Hill Dog Park, there are plenty of toys, fresh water, and poo bags, just in case you forget yours. This park encourages pets to run off-leash but requests that owners have a leash on them in the park in case of unwanted situations with other dogs. Puppies using the park must be at least four months old, and all dogs should wear a collar with their current license and vaccinations.
Catamount Dog Park
Mount Tremper
Treat your pup to a luxurious meal after a trot in this spacious park. The Catamount Dog Park is special for guests at the Emerson Resort and Spa and even has a Pup Fare menu with chicken breasts, grass-fed burger patties, and steak at the Woodnotes Grille. The park is a 60ft wide by 100ft long dedicated fenced-in area for the pups. It even has a special section for smaller furry friends. Did we mention there are doggy showers, too?
Cornwall Bark Park
Cornwall
There are two fenced-in areas to let your pups run free and off the leash: one area for small pooches and another for larger dogs. Cornwall Bark Park is a great spot for man’s best friend to make new friends of their own.
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Dog Run at Roeliff Jansen Park
Hillsdale
You’ll find a perfect exercise spot for your pup at the Old Rte. 22 dog run. There is plenty of shade and sitting areas for families who want to relax on the grounds. As far as restrictions go, owners must keep their pets on a leash outside the dog run.
For Paws of Ulster, Inc.
New Paltz
This volunteer-run dog park works hard to provide a space where pets can have fun and be safe. This destination is off-leash and has over an acre and a half that is fenced off, with designated spots for small and large dogs. The park asks that owners leave the toys at home. After the park, take your pooch to Water Street Market in New Paltz to get a toy or two at Paws of Distinction.
Friendly Paws Dog Park at Doug Phillips Park
Fishkill
If you are a resident of Fishkill, Dutchess County, or New York, you are in luck. There’s a dog park nearby and owners must fill out the application to be able to attend. The park is open every day except on Thursdays. Swing by Farm to Table Bistro for a bite to eat; there’s even an outdoor sitting area perfect for you and your pet to relax.
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Kennedy Dells County Park
New City
Owners and dogs can venture out at this park across three trail miles. Kennedy Dells County Park also has trails for hikers, skiers, and horseback riders. Afterwards, head down to Art Café in Nyack. The eatery allows dogs to come in the shop while visitors order craft lattes and coffee.
Kingston Point Dog Park
Kingston
Both small and large dogs can enjoy fenced-in areas at Kingston Point Dog Park. There’s an ample amount of running room available at the park. Owners have a two-dog limit in the park. There are nice seating areas around the premises where owners can sit back and watch their dog explore the outdoors.
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Normanskill Dog Park
Albany
All dogs must stay on the leash when on the trail. However, there are other areas on the premises where dogs can run and roam unleashed. After taking the dog for a walk at the park area, visit the picnic area and other amenities at Normanskill Farm. The farm offers a community garden, golf course, creek, and foot trail.
Ossining Dog Park – Cedar Lane
Ossining
Your dog won’t get too dirty at this park because of the wood chips spread around to eliminate the mud. There’s even a small dog house named “Larry’s Dog House” that sits in the middle of the area, surrounded by seating and plenty of shade. When you are done with the dog park, check out the fitness trail, fishing spots, picnic areas, or soccer fields.
Park for Paws
Catskill
You and your dog can socialize at this medium-sized, off-leash dog park. A sturdy fence encapsulates the grounds, and owners can eat at picnic tables and sitting areas around the park. The park also has agility training so you and your pup can get your daily dose of exercise together. The park is open seven days a week from dawn to dusk so your pooch can always have fun.
Sycamore Bark Park
Mahopac
Carmel residents can enjoy more than a half acre at the bark park with plenty of shade and six-foot fences for $30 a year. In the hot weather, let your pup cool off at Sycamore Bark Park’s doggy water fountain, and keep the fun going with agility equipment and toys. The bark park, which was the first dog park in Putnam County, sits on a 41-acre field at Sycamore Park with other family-friendly amenities and events that go on throughout the year.
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Woodstock Dog Park
Woodstock
If you want to be surrounded by more of a natural feel, mosey on over to the wooded areas at Woodstock Dog Park. Trees and other paths surround the park, and your pup can taste the outdoors while roaming within the fenced park.
Related: 11 Questions to Ask Before You Get a New Pet