Looking for the best parks in Arlington, VA to let your furry friend roam off-leash? Look no further! In this article, we have rounded up the top 10 off-leash havens that dogs and their owners can enjoy in Arlington. From the ever-popular Bark Park to the scenic Glencarlyn Dog Park and the spacious Shirlington Dog Park, these parks offer a plethora of amenities and activities to keep both dogs and humans entertained.
Whether you're looking for a place for your pup to socialize, exercise, or simply explore, these dog parks in Arlington are sure to cater to every canine's needs.
Jump to places
- James Hunter Dog Park
- Shirlington Dog Park
- Benjamin Banneker Dog Park
- Fort Barnard Dog Park
- Glencarlyn Dog Park
- Clarendon Dog Park
- Utah Dog Park
- Towers Park
- Gateway Park Interim Dog Park
- Fort Ethan Allen Park
Located in Arlington, James Hunter Dog Park is a fantastic spot for canine companions to frolic and play. This spacious dog park offers plenty of seating options, including benches in shaded areas, ensuring that owners can relax while their furry friends have a blast.
Visitors have remarked that all the big dogs at this gravel and sand-filled park are friendly, creating a welcoming and social atmosphere. Inside the fenced area, there are a few scattered shade spots and a couple of benches for guests to use. Additionally, an inactive fountain and ledges can be found near the entrance.
With a large sand field/pit in the center where dogs can sprint and romp freely, James Hunter Dog Park is a must-visit for any dog lover in Arlington.

off energy. The park also features multiple water stations, which visitors appreciate for keeping their pets hydrated during their playtime. Additionally, there is a paved walkway that offers a scenic route for both dogs and their owners to take a leisurely stroll.
One visitor mentioned that it is the largest dog park they have encountered in the area, making it an ideal place for dogs to interact with others and for owners to meet fellow dog enthusiasts. Furthermore, Shirlington Dog Park offers separate sections for small and large dogs, catering to the needs of different breeds and temperaments.
Reviewers note that the small dog enclosure is particularly spacious, providing a safe environment for smaller pups to socialize. Another added perk mentioned by visitors is the opportunity for dogs to swim in the river, adding an extra element of fun to their visit.
The park also provides plenty of amenities, such as benches and picnic tables, allowing owners to relax and enjoy their time at the park. Although some caution is advised in terms of observing other owners' behavior, Shirlington Dog Park is highly regarded as an exceptional destination for dogs and their owners to enjoy quality time together in a well-maintained and spacious environment.

Benjamin Banneker Dog Park is worth visiting for dog owners in Arlington. People say it is a great place to meet friends and their furry companions. Most owners are quite attentive to cleaning up after their dogs, although some land mines may be left behind.
The park offers various structures for dogs to jump on and in, along with water bowls for hydration. Additionally, Benjamin Banneker has separate areas for small and big dogs, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for all. Visitors describe the park as fantastic, with usually attentive owners.
However, a small number of dogs with behavioral issues can sometimes pose a slight risk. Unfortunately, the owners of these dogs are often distracted by their phones. Apart from that, the park is clean and offers running water. Its spaciousness allows dogs to enjoy themselves, and the fun cement structures provide additional entertainment.
The only downside, according to one visitor, is that the park may be less enjoyable on rainy days due to the gravel and dirt surface. So, next time you're looking for a dog-friendly park, consider visiting Benjamin Banneker Dog Park in Arlington, VA.

Benjamin Banneker Dog Park Full Review
Fort Barnard Dog Park is worth visiting for several reasons. It offers a spacious area for dogs to roam freely and play, with trees and grass creating a pleasant environment. Visitors can take advantage of the park's picnic tables and benches to relax while their furry friends socialize.
Reviewers have praised the friendly atmosphere, mentioning that they have enjoyed meeting other dog owners and their pets. The park is well-lit, ensuring visibility during evening visits. Additionally, there are water bowls and a fountain available for dogs to stay hydrated.
With high fences and two entrances, the park ensures a safe and secure environment. Visitors appreciate the convenience of parking on the street in front of the park. For families, Fort Barnard Dog Park offers an added bonus with a segregated play-yard for small children and a nearby baseball court, making it an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Nestled within a residential area, Glencarlyn Dog Park offers a unique and somewhat unexpected retreat for dog owners and their furry friends. Despite its slightly inconvenient location on a narrow street with limited parking, visitors often rave about this park.
One particular highlight that stands out is the abundance of shade, providing a cool refuge even on the sunniest days. Guests appreciate the park's lack of fences, as it allows their well-behaved pups to freely roam and interact with other dogs. In addition to the off-leash area, Glencarlyn Dog Park boasts a range of amenities, including waste stations, water fountains, seating areas, and even agility equipment for those seeking an extra challenge.
Overall, the park's serene ambiance and thoughtful amenities make it a top spot for dog owners seeking a peaceful and enjoyable outing with their furry companions.

Glencarlyn Dog Park Full Review
Clarendon Dog Park, located in Clarendon, is a beautiful park worth visiting for dog owners in the area. Guests have praised the park for its enticing features, such as a fountain that provides a refreshing splash for pups during hot days. The park is known for being bustling with plenty of dogs, creating a lively and social atmosphere.
Even on sunny days, some visitors brave the weather to seek shade under the trees, providing a comfortable spot for both dogs and their owners. Additionally, the park boasts a pool area where dogs can cool off and enjoy a refreshing swim. However, one reviewer mentioned that the play area is covered in sand, which could potentially leave dogs dusty or dirty.
Nonetheless, Clarendon Dog Park provides a great experience with amenities such as poop bags, chairs to relax on, and multiple water fountains to ensure that dogs stay hydrated.

Utah Dog Park is worth visiting for several reasons. Visitors often mention the cleanliness of the park, with one person expressing gratitude for someone who swept under the shelter and pathways. This attention to cleanliness ensures that the park looks great and provides a pleasant environment for both dogs and their owners.
The park also offers amenities such as a dedicated water fountain source, plenty of dog bowls, covered picnic benches, and even a porta potty. These facilities make it convenient for guests to enjoy their time at the park without any inconvenience. Additionally, the park's size is mentioned by one reviewer, noting that it strikes a perfect balance between providing enough space for dogs to run and play while still allowing owners to keep a close eye on their furry friends.
Overall, Utah Dog Park is praised for its friendly atmosphere and is described as a suitable place for both sociable and more nervous dogs.

Towers Park is a must-visit for dog owners in Arlington. Visitors say that the dog park is very clean and well-maintained, making it a great place to bring your furry friend. The park offers evening lighting, ensuring that you can enjoy a walk with your pup even after the sun goes down.
With several park benches and tables, you can relax while your dog has a blast playing with other dogs. The secure in and out access provides peace of mind, knowing that your dog is safe. The ground cover is a combination of sand and grass, giving your pup plenty of space to run and explore.
Additionally, the fence line is secure, with no gaps for your dog to escape through. Overall, Towers Park is a fantastic spot for dogs and their owners to enjoy quality time together.

Gateway Park Interim Dog Park is worth visiting because it is a great facility that was created due to the hard work and generosity of local dog lovers. The park has its own local sponsorship organization that raises money for its maintenance and neighborhood events, such as a dog Halloween party.
Visitors appreciate the well-kept space with good fencing and gates. Free waste bags are conveniently available throughout the park, and there is plenty of nicely spaced seating. The park offers separate areas for large and small dogs, ensuring a safe environment for all.
While it may lack some amenities, such as a water station and waste disposal, guests are glad to have a dog park in the neighborhood. However, it is important to note that there are several highrises under construction nearby, so noise levels can vary depending on the time of visit.

Gateway Park Interim Dog Park Full Review
Fort Ethan Allen Park, located in Arlington, offers a variety of amenities that make it a popular destination for dog owners. Visitors praise the park for its spaciousness, which provides ample room for dogs to play and roam freely. The park's close proximity and accessible parking make it a convenient option for those looking for a dog-friendly outing.
Additionally, the park features a well-maintained dog park adjacent to the Madison Center, allowing dogs to socialize and exercise off-leash in a safe environment. The park's cleanliness is highly regarded, with guests noting its pristine facilities and attentive staff.
While the dog park's ground surface may be dusty, bags, water sources for dogs, benches, and picnic tables are provided, ensuring a comfortable experience for both canines and their owners. With helpful information available at the bulletin board, Fort Ethan Allen Park is a favorable choice for dog owners seeking a well-appointed and inviting green space to enjoy with their furry companions.
