Scouting out the local dog parks is a must for moving to a new area with your furry friend. Even if you’re simply stopping by St. Louis for a visit, it’s important to locate some dog-friendly hangouts where you can take your pup to stretch their legs after the journey.
While there are a few dog parks throughout the area that don’t require a fee, the majority of St. Louis area dog parks require an annual membership. Be sure to check the rules and call before you go.
The 10 Off-Leash Dog Parks in St. Louis, Missouri
1. Broemmelsiek Park
- Spacious area with covered shelter and plenty of shade
- Large pond for dogs with fountain
- Proof of license and immunizations required
- Locals complain that the hours are inconsistent
2. Quail Ridge Park
- 5 acres of grassy area
- Separate sections for large and small dogs
- Covered shelter provides shade for humans
- Water fountain located nearby
3. Veterans Tribute Park
- 3-acre off-leash area with separate play spaces for large and small dogs
- Water silo, 1.5-mile trail, and 6 acres on-leash recreational field on site
- Fountain outside the dog park fence
4. SLU Dog Park & Sculpture Garden
- Features a sculpture garden with fantastic views of Scottish Rite Cathedral
- Free, but hours vary
- Open grassy field that’s fully fenced
5. Southwest City Dog Park
- 1 acre of fenced, garden-style dog park
- Stocked with doggie pools and toys
- Well-lit for playtime after the sun goes down
- Requires proof of immunizations to be considered for membership
6. Forest Park Southeast Members Only Dog Park
- Appears to have once charged a fee, but may not anymore
- Small grassy area that’s fenced for security
7. Frenchtown Dog Park
- Hosts separate areas for large and small dogs
- Contains a doggy pool
- Location is approximate; entrance is in the alley at the end of Emmet Street
- Separate play areas for small and large dogs
- Picnic tables provided so that you to bring a snack while your dog plays
- Popular community hangout for people and their dogs
9. Treecourt Unleashed Dog Adventure Park
- 9 acres of privately owned shaded property for dogs to run
- Temperament test required for membership acceptance
- Pools and water fountains provided
- Pit bull breeds are only admitted under special conditions
10. Compton Hill Reservoir Park
- One of St. Louis’s best kept secrets
- Small off-leash dog park requires a membership fee through the City of St. Louis
- Dog-friendly area with historic tower access and paved walking trails if kept on-leash
Summary
For visitors, St. Louis hosts several free dog parks located throughout the city, such as Quail Ridge Park. Some of the dog parks are maintained by volunteer local residents, and the hours might not be posted, so be sure to call before you decide to make a long detour. If you’re a new resident, your options aren’t as limited.
St. Louis is home to many well-maintained dog parks that are available to you for an annual fee as long as your dog passes health and behavioral tests.
Featured Image Credit: jarmoluk, Pixabay
The 10 Off-Leash Dog Parks in St. Louis, Missouri
