Are you looking for dog parks in Tampa Bay? There’s a reason that Tampa Bay has been named the most dog-friendly city in the United States. With 18 fully fenced or boarded-by-water dog parks, Tampa’s dogs are spoiled for choice. We have created a guide below to our favorite Dog Parks in Tampa Bay and why we recommend them.
Davis Island Dog Park is located on the water.
Located just south of Downtown Tampa, Davis Island Dog Park features two distinct areas: the beach side, where dogs can swim in the bay and roll in the sand, and the grassy area, offering a more laid-back experience, perfect for older dogs to lounge around or for others to enjoy a game of fetch. This park offers the best of Tampa’s environments: a fun beach experience paired with a fenced-in grassy space.
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park has an agility course in Downtown Tampa.
While Davis Island offers a beach experience, Curtis Hixon Park provides 8 acres of turfed grass and an agility course with scenic views of the Tampa Riverwalk. While it does not offer water access, it’s a great place for those who want to enjoy the larger park, which includes a large playground, splash pad, gardens, various sculptures, fountains, and more.
Jim Urbanski Dog Park is located in Al Lopez Park.
Located 6 miles northwest of Downtown Tampa, Al Lopez Park spans 132 acres, where you can take your leashed dog on nature walks along shaded wooded trails. For dogs who prefer to roam freely, Jim Urbanski Dog Park offers two separate areas for small and large dogs with water fountains. No matter your dog’s energy level, these two dog parks in Tampa Bay provide ample space for active play and peaceful walks.
Gadsden Dog Park has three fenced areas.
Gadsen Dog Park in South Tampa has three fenced areas, two for large breed dogs and one for small breed dogs. In addition to providing multiple options for your dog to run off-leash, Gadsden Park has two walking trails, one around Lake Gadsden and another around the play area.
Picnic Island Dog Park is great for swimmers.
If your dog loves the water, Picnic Island Dog Park in South Tampa is a must visit. While the beach is a little rocky, your dog can run around the sandy areas off-leash and swim in the waters of Old Tampa Bay. It’s a fun park for those who want a beach day with their dog. It offers nice views and is more secluded than most of Tampa’s other dog parks.
We’re here to help
Whether your dog loves the beach, agility courses, or peaceful nature walks, Tampa Bay’s parks offer something for every dog. If you would like expert training recommendations, including general obedience and behavioral issues, you can schedule a free consultation with our Pet Behavior Team. We personalize all of our programs to offer one-on-one training at your home and in your local neighborhood.
If you’re located outside the Tampa Bay area or prefer virtual training, our Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist, Dr. Ectherling-Savage, offers virtual consultations to help you reach your training goals by developing a personalized plan with detailed, step-by-step guidance.
