Denver is a dog-friendly city—seriously dog-friendly. Zillow and Rover name it in the top 15 fastest growing cities for pet populations. Rover says it contains one of the highest numbers of dog walkers and pet sitters per capita. According to a 2019 Denverite article, Denver had more dogs (158K) than children (140K) at the time. Those numbers only gained ground in 2020 and beyond as the pandemic inspired people to adopt more pets.
Denver is clearly a mecca for dogs, and they need the resources to go along with this booming pet population. Thus, an extensive network of parks dot Denver’s landscape, specifically, dog parks for fido to enjoy.
Let’s explore a few of the best dog parks in Denver below!
Psst…Want to live close to one of these bark parks? Give AptAmigo a call, and we can find the perfect apartment for you and your puppers.
Related: How to Find Your Dream Denver Apartment
Denver’s Top Bark Parks
Parks & Rec Dog Parks
The Denver Parks & Recreation department runs 12 off-leash dog parks around the city. Many of them are highly rated and worth exploring. The majority contain sandy play areas for running and digging (just fill in any big holes before you leave). 10 of the 12 parks lack lighting, so hours are sunrise to sunset, seven days a week. However, at Quality Hill Pilot dog park, the hours are 7AM to 10PM daily, and Railyard Dog Park is open from 5AM to 11PM daily.
The city provides some waste bags and stations for them, but asks that park users help keep it stocked. Traditionally, park visitors are respectful and pick up after their pooches. But, if the park conditions get too bad, a yellow warning sign goes up that means “clean or else.” If you get there and the sign is red, then the park is closed until further notice.
Additionally, dogs must have current vaccinations with tags attached. And, they can only be off-leash within the play area because many of these bark parks are part of larger parks that might be crowded or distracting for an off-leash dog. Kids can’t bring dogs to the park alone, and the maximum number of dogs per person is two.
Let’s take a look at some of the top-rated dog parks run by Denver Parks & Rec.
Fuller Dog Park
Neighborhood: Whittier
Address: E. 29th Ave. & Franklin
Why Dogs Love It:
This great dog park contains two areas: one for high-energy dogs and the other for low-energy dogs. Tennis balls and friends to play with abound at this always busy spot. This park only provides some shade for patrons. Also, bring water and a bowl because there is no fountain here.
Greenway Dog Park
Neighborhood: East of City Park
Address: 2002 Spruce St, Denver, CO 80238
Why Dogs Love It:
Another large, sandy space for fido to play, this option includes some shaded benches and a few trees within the dog park, so you and your pups can lay down and relax out of the sun on hot days. The water fountain here has spotty service, so bringing water isn’t a bad idea. Before or after the bark park, check out the rest of Greenway Park, including dog-friendly green spaces (as long as your pup is on a leash).
Kennedy Dog Park
Neighborhood: Kennedy (East of Denver Tech Center)
Address: 9700 E Hampden Ave, Denver, CO 80231
Why Dogs Love It: Yet another big sandy area, this bark park features high- and low-energy sections as well as fun topographical boulders for your pup to play on. A few trees liven up the area, and a pavilion is provided for shade.
Rail Yard Dog Park
Neighborhood: LoDo
Address: 2005 19th St, Denver, CO 80202
Why Dogs Love It:
Located inside the city, this large bark park consists of two separate areas for small and large dogs. Shade extends over some tables and benches for owners to relax under. There is a fountain with a bowl, but again, service can be spotty, so remember to bring your own.
Carla Madison Dog Park
Neighborhood: City Park
Address: 2405 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206
Why Dogs Love It:
Although a bit smaller than the others, this neighborhood bark park is still worth visiting. The terrain consists of a mix of gravel and sand. Like the other parks, it includes a double gate for entering and exiting safely without the risk of letting dogs loose. There is no shade here, so come prepared on hot days.
On-Leash Parks Perfect for Your Pooch
While the Parks & Rec department hosts the biggest and most kept-up dog parks in Denver, there are plenty of other parks and trails where you can take Fido for some on-leash time in a green space.
Additional Recreational Areas for Dogs
Confluence Park
Neighborhood: Auraria
Address: 2250 15th St, Denver, CO 80202
Cheesman Park
Neighborhood: Cheesman Park
Address: Roughly bounded by E Thirteenth Ave, High St, E Eighth Ave, and Franklin St
City Park
Neighborhood: City Park
Address: 2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80205
Paco Sánchez Park
Neighborhood: West of Sun Valley
Address: 1290 Knox Court, 3240 W 14th Ave, Denver, CO 80204
Washington Park
Neighborhood: Washington Park
Address: 701 S Franklin St, Denver, CO 80209
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Find an Apartment Next to Your Favorite Dog Park
Fido is important in your life and should be an important part of your apartment search. Find your favorite bark park in Denver, then contact AptAmigo to help find you an apartment nearby. It’s that easy! See why so many people have used our free, 5-star services by calling today.
Jeanette Smith is a writer, editor, and freelancer based in Dallas, Texas. Find out more at JeanettetheWriter.com.
