What a great dog park!! So many friends to smell, so many nooks and crannies to smell and mark, so much room to run and explore! It was one of the first nice days of winter/spring transition and everyone and their dog decided to go to this dog park! There's water fountains and bowls. There's a less than 25lb fenced area too. Gated entrances and exits. Parking was a little tough and it's a very busy area in general, so drive slow and watch for humans and dogs as you're driving through! read more

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A great place with friendly people and dogs. Great self serve dog washing facility next door to park. read more

Hidden Gem for Dog Lovers! This is hands down the biggest dog park I've been to in the DMV area! It's a hidden gem that every dog owner needs to check out. The fenced-in area is spacious--probably about half a mile long--with plenty of room for pups to run and play freely. There are benches scattered throughout for owners to relax while the dogs have their fun. One of the best parts? There's a beautiful lake nearby that's perfect for cooling off on hot days. It's not fenced, so it's best for dogs with good recall, but it's such a great bonus feature. Plus, there's a built-in water station in the fenced area to keep your dog hydrated. Overall, this park is an amazing find--peaceful, spacious, and thoughtfully designed for both dogs and their humans. Definitely worth the visit! read more

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I love this dog park in the spring and fall. I recently took my dog here (early July) and the grass is severely overgrown so I was concerned about ticks. So check your dog afterward! My little dog enjoys the main dog park area but they also have a designated small dog area if yours prefers. There are poop bags, water fountains and trash cans for waste. There is technically a stream but I noticed that they now have signs everywhere warning you not to wade or allow dogs to swim due to bacteria, so we avoid that now. Parking lot of small but I usually can find a spot. Definitely recommend! read more

Three dogs had a blast. Beautiful park and plenty of room to run and roam. People were so nice and lots of dogs all shapes and sizes playing super! read more

Shirlington Dog Park - Long narrow park - Dog Parks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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This is probably my favorite dog park in the Virginia area. It's completely fenced with a ton of room for dogs to roam and play. You can confidently have your dog off leash. There's a few benches available too for seating. read more

Shirlington Dog Park - Dog Parks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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Really impressed with how spacious and dog-friendly this park is for dogs of all sizes!! Whether you've got a shy little guy or big bear of a dog, you can find something for your little guy to enjoy here! The area to go down to the creek with water loving dogs is so thoughtful! read more

My little one had such a delightful time at this place; the joy on their face was priceless. I can already see myself returning here frequently to create more cherished moments together. read more

My dog loves this dog park! There are dogs of all ages, sizes, activity levels and interests. My dog has been coming here since he was 6 months old, 30lbs (now he's 8months, 40lbs) He loves to run, be chased and keep away with sticks & toys. This park is so big so if there aren't any dogs interested in playing where you are, you can move on to another spot. The weekends/week nights it can be really crowded and crazy so make sure your dog is comfortable in that type of environment. I like going around 11am-1pm during the week. If you're new to the dog park scene, definitely take it slow at first. There is a section for small dogs/puppies as well. If it has rained recently there will be mud, so be prepared for that! My dog likes the mud so I make sure to bring wipes for his feet haha The location is great too, right near a local brewery and a dog grooming spot. read more

Shirlington Dog Park - My pup enjoying the mud! - Dog Parks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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This is one of the best dog parks in Arlington. There's an enormous amount of space for dogs to run and play. There are separate areas for small and large dogs. The entire park is maintained well with water stations at the center. There's a stream available for dogs to play in the water. However, use at your own risk. Since the water contains runoff from the streets, I've heard from a few dog owners about their dogs getting sick from playing in this stream. All of the fellow dog owners I've met here are nice and you can tell dogs enjoy their time at this park. Positive vibes all around. This park is also conveniently located next to a dog washing business and dog friendly brewery. read more

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The dog park itself is a nice long run, lots of space for your dog to get out energy, as well as plenty of trees for shade. It is kept nice and there is a paved trail from one end to the other. Right outside the entrance/exit gate is a stream your dogs can play in. It is not technically associated with the dog park, so they assume no responsibility for bacteria that may be in the water. I have not had an issue yet, and my dog goes swimming in it quite often. And that brings me to my first negative- if your dog loves water, the gate to the stream is often times left open, or people don't pay attention to dogs going in and out. The climb down to the stream is steep and rocky, so once your dog is out of the gate, it will take a minute to get down to the river to get them. Hence I only bring my dog here when I know I'll have time to bathe her afterwards. The only other negative about this dog park is I've encountered a few aggressive dogs, as well as not very friendly people, more than a few times. You will find that at any dog park, but it has been several times at this one. Several entrances into the dog park and a parking lot. It is often times at capacity, but if you drive around for a few minutes you usually can find a spot. read more

Shirlington Dog Park is a large dog park along Four Mile Run (a creek) in south Arlington. There are multiple entrances to the dog park. The north entrance has a mailbox with clean bags for your dog's poop. In the middle of the park is a large mural painted with animals and sites in D.C. Nearby is a brewery and a few restaurants! read more

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Best dog park in Shirlington. Always lots of dogs for my step dog to play with, he loves it !! read more

Shirlington Dog Park - Dog park - Dog Parks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Honestly my first visit to Shirlington dog park was bad. The entire stretch of the park was filled with this pungent odor of feces that rises up and singes the nostrils. I refused to go back for at least 3 years until my friends finally convinced me that it was the best dog park around and I must have just had bad luck that day. Indeed, I had gone on a scorching hot day when the trash had not been emptied causing the smells to permeate the air. When I finally went back to the park it was clean, odor free, and just lovely. My dog absolutely loved running through the little creek with all the other pups. Weve gone back several times since and have always had a great time. I'm glad I gave it a second shot. Shirlington dog park is definitely one of the best around this area. read more

This dog park is awesome. Soooo much space and it's tucked in a nice area for the owner as well. I appreciate the fates they use as it locks behind you. There's also convenient water fountains just for your dog. There's plenty places to walk to to grab something to eat. The people there I find very friendly. I will frequent this dog park often! read more

It is a GREAT dog park but irresponsible owners exist sometimes. They do nothing about their dog's bad behavior like..attacking other dogs. Which happened to my poor dog today. Didn't hear an apology. Nothing. Please keep that in your mind that it can happen to you too at some random time. I hope no one has to go through that again though. Again, it is a nice dog park but it's not 100% safe for your pups. I think I've seen an aggressive dog with an irresponsible dog owner combination 30% of time that I've visited. It doesn't happen all the time BUT it happens sometimes. I decided to not take my dogs there anymore for that reason even though the park is beautiful. I don't wanna risk my dog's life anymore. read more

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Fun for the dogs with water to swim in and plenty of area for them to run around and play. The only thing that I think is needed are stairs or a clear walkway to the water. read more

Shirlington Dog Park - Fun times in the water - Dog Parks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

This is a very nice dog park and I was happy to finally take my dog there. The park is divided in two -- a section for big dogs (about 0.8 mile long) and a section for small dogs (about 0.3 mile long -- or even less). Of course the big dog park is much better because you can walk front front to end and it feels like a work out. But my 16 lbs dachshund is so scared of big dogs and we had to stop every single step of the way! The dogs are generally very well behaved too. Our favorite part is the river! Believe me when I said my dog does not like to be near water, but since the water was so calm and shallow, he calmly sat by the river. Now that I know how things work around here, will definitely take Mickey back! read more

Shirlington Dog Park - The river is calming. - Dog Parks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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Best. Park. Ever!!! I can see spending every Saturday morning here for the next ten years. #Goals read more

Shirlington Dog Park - Katie playing in the river that runs through the dog park! - Dog Parks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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Parking was a little difficult due to construction but this park is worth it. Huge enclosed park with walking path. Not good if your dog has poor recall because it's a lot of ground to cover Oliver had a great time though. Would recommend for a good walk and dog run read more

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A good little dog park in Shirlington which is part of Alexandria. I thought it could be a lot cleaner and more maintained. I saw animal control patrolling nearby to take dogs if needed. read more

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Best dog park in the area. I've been taking my dog here for several years, and he loves swimming in the water. Most pet parents are warm and respectful. I've witnessed some occasional rowdy behavior, but nothing out of the ordinary. read more

Shirlington Dog Park - Enjoying the cold temperatures in January. - Dog Parks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Wow this park is awesome! I didn't even know it existed until a few months ago and I am so happy to have found it! It's long and narrow and has a separate area for the dogs to play in the water if you let them. I really like the two way gates that make getting in and out a breeze! There are two water fountains, lots of benches, and even a separate area for smaller dogs to roam freely without being trampled (although there were several small dog in the main area, so it's up to the owner to decide which is right for their dog). The park is tucked behind an industrial park and I noticed a dog grooming place right next door (great marketing!). My husband and I met so many nice people too, I was really impressed with how friendly everyone was. Our pup roamed the entire length of the park sniffing and frolicking and seemed to have the best time. What a gem! I have a feeling we are going to spend a lot of time here. read more

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Loved it here! The park is long with a lot of benches to sit. But most people go to the far end water area. It is a rough trail to get down to the bottom. I suggest bringing water shoes so you can comfortably wade in the water with your dog. There are two dog grooming places next door so if your dog gets super dirty you can go in for a wash. read more

Shirlington Dog Park - Dog Parks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Definitely the best dog park in the area and the biggest. It's clean with plenty of free poop bags. Owners have mostly been responsible too. It's long so pups have so much runway to just keep running. The area is also a mixture of dirt, grass and concrete walking path in the middle that runs the whole length of the park. Plenty of trees and bushes too to offer some shade. At one end of the park it can even feel like you are walking in the woods with your pup! There are also water fountains for the dogs. We've been here on different days and times and times and it's nice that there are always dogs around! There's nothing sadder for my dog when a dog park is empty. There are 3 entrances, one at each end and one the middle. There's also small parking lot by the main entrance at one end but there's also plenty of street parking in the neighborhood. There's also a dog self wash (MuddyMutt) by the middle entrance. Perfect stop after if your dog likes to roll around in the dirt. The small dog area is by the main entrance. You don't have to walk through the main dog park to get to it either. Another feature is the stream. There are plenty of dogs playing there but proceed with caution since it's not the cleanest. There's even a sign posted by the county before you enter the stream about the water and potential bacteria in it... luckily my dog hates water When my pup was younger and not trained this park was definitely too much. So easy to lose sight of your dog because it's so long and narrow. But she's more reliable now so she comes here at least 1x a week and had become our go to dog park. read more

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Dog Lovers Paradise! This is the best place to bring your best friend for and adventure. At first glance you may think you're in the wrong place and parking may be hard to find but once you find a place to park and walk through the smartly designed gates you will be in dog heaven. My husband and I loved how the park is designed like a walking trail and on both side of the trail are grass areas. This makes it great for dogs who don't like grass or people who love dogs and want to hang but maybe don't have a dog. My dog Gus's favorite part about the park is the fenced in river which you can access at different points at the park. This area provided a safe dog friend here for my swimmer to run, splash, and swim. I've been to a lot of dog parks but few in this area have drinking water which my dog needs while playing. At multiple points on the walking path their are doggie water fountains. Another amazing thing this park has is a self wash shop right outside. For about $20 per pet you can wash, dry, brush, and give a treat to your best friend. The only draw backs are lack of parking and smelly trash cans place at the entrances. Good news many people were arriving and leaving at the same time so we didn't wait long and if you walk quickly pass the trash the rest of the park isn't smelling and is surprisingly clean. read more

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This place is perfect for dogs! They have plenty of space to play and even has a water fountain for the dogs!! They have doggy bags and all the dogs that come are friendly! read more

Shirlington Dog Park - Dog Parks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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Who knew something like this was hidden in plane sight! First time going and it was pretty amazing. Didn't expect it to be as big as it was and to have 2 different spots for the pup to enjoy the water. The way down to the water is rocky and could be slippery when wet so be careful heading down but the water itself was very nice, shallow enough for us to get our feet wet and some parts deep enough for dogs to swim! read more

This dog park is absolutely amazing it's huge. I mean seriously I've never been to a larger dog park. The bad news about that is there are tons of dogs here at all times of the day. Our dog is just getting used to being around other dogs and puppy manners so this was a lot for him. For the most part, dogs and owners were very good. If someone was playing too hard they were quick to distract them. The worst part about this place is tons of poop not cleaned up. I can't believe that some owners don't do this but it's true. And I'm sorry for people who have to come in and clean it up. My boyfriend stepped in a huge pile on the way back and it stunk up the whole car. read more

Shirlington Dog Park - This place is so cute - Dog Parks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

It wasn't until I became a dog mom that I understood how people could go out of their way for a pet. Now, though, I've had my pup for over a year and still drive down from Maryland on a weekend to take him to Shirlington Dog Park. Why? Because it's simply the best dog park in the dc metro area. Set behind some automotive shops (and just next door to New District Brewing Co!), this dog park is the perfect place for a stroll as your beloved pupper frolics and adventures throughout the park. The main stretch is a paved trail with earth on either side of it (usually dusty dirt, muddy when it rains). I love this because my dog can get muddy and dusty and my shoes stay relatively clean. There are doggy bag stations and disposals throughout the park and there are gates at either end that lead down an embankment to a stream. When the weather is warm, lots of doggos will be down their with their owners playing fetch and swimming. It's a great way to clean off your dog too! There are trees and benches and picnic tables - a little something for everyone. I've never really had a problem with any other dogs or owners here (with the exception of one jerk from NYC being rude and another idiot couple who didn't notice when their dog slipped past strangers at the entrance and into the parking lot). This is a very safe park and my favorite place to bring my furry man. The only caution is sometimes the water isn't very clean and has high levels of bacteria. Most of the time it's alright though, and my dog has never gotten sick from it. I would for sure recommend this place as your go-to spot for puppy fun! read more

First time at this park and we loved it. It's a huge offleash park, with lots of dogs on weekends. Our dog really enjoyed the park and playing with other dogs. They have water fountains and two access points to a stream where dogs can play (and swim). Will be coming back! read more

Shirlington Dog Park - Dog Parks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Love this DOG park. For DOGS, I'll repeat. For DOGS. Parents: please don't bring your young children here and let them play and swim . It's not fair to the dogs. Take your kids to the dozens of pools and parks and leave Shirlington for who it's meant for DOGS!!!!! Not Kids!!! Can't believe I had to stop my dog swimming because of kids in the water -so rude!!!!!! 5 stars for the park, 0 stars for parents who think bringing toddlers and young children here is acceptable. Take them to a park for humans -there are dozens around - but only one Shirlington for our fur pets. Seriously don't bring your kids. Just stop. read more

World's greatest dog park! Ok, maybe not really. But it sure seems like it to me. Coming from Vegas, I'd never before experienced a dog park like this. It's HUGE. And it's like strolling through the woods on a nice path - but my little cairn terrier can run off and explore safely. The best part was the water. There's a stream running alongside the park that is part of it. It's a good combination of shallow and deeper parts (though, a human can walk across it without the water coming up past knee or thigh deep). My four-legged friend had a total blast playing fetch in the water! After several minutes of coxing and an even longer period of timid walking around in the shallow part, he finally got the hang of the swimming thing. And once he got it, he never wanted to stop! I was such a proud dog mom, and he wore himself out quite nicely. And he even made new friends with a little Yorkie who also enjoyed swimming. We stayed here for hours. It was a totally awesome and free way to spend an afternoon. And all the other visitors were friendly and nice. We will oh so most definitely be back! read more

This is a mad legit dog park. It's huge, I didn't even walk the entire thing because it stretched and stretched. Great things about this park: + 2 heavy gated doors to make sure dogs don't get out by accident. + a smaller area for "small dogs/puppies" only so you can keep the big and small ones happy. + a lake front that dogs can go swim in!!! There's an entrance down the hill from inside the park. + Water fountain for dogs. I mean, this place is just so big and grand .... If I were a dog, I'd run around this place like it's heaven. So many people take their dogs here so you get a really wide range of dogs to socialize your dogs with. I love seeing them all play with each other! Take your doggies here!! read more

Everything was good but easier water access for our pets is needed. Balls were available for pets which was very good!

Shirlington Park has always been a great dog park but it's even BETTER now with the renovations! The new gates/entrances are a huge improvement. With 2 terriers under 20 lbs each, it was SO nice for me to see that they have added the separate entrance for the small dog area. I guess it didn't make sense to have to go through the main area for bigger dogs and an extra set of gates just to get to small doggie land. The old entrance is still there if your pup likes to alternate between the two areas. Now all we need is a trash can and a water fountain in the small dog area. I'll keep coming back to the small dog area because the majority (if not all) of the dogs and their owners are friendly and there's no "pack mentality" when welcoming new dogs. Tip for all dogs: Make new friends! Tip for puppies: There's a puppy party every Saturday for puppies younger than 10 or 12 months. Tip for hoomans: Make sure not to park in the spots marked as loading areas--I've seen them giving out tickets even on weekday mornings and on the weekends! read more

This is a great place for your dog to be off leash inside a large fenced area that simply seems like a park. All of the dogs and owners were extremely friendly. There is a creek running beside the park with gates that allow you to take your dog down to the water where both humans and dogs can cool off a bit. SMALL DOG ESCAPE WARNING: our 12lb pup is an escape artist and he found 2 spots he can escape right next to the gates leading down to the water. There were a couple other spots that I saw where he may also get out. I will definitely come back and use this area to cool off and train our dog to be off leash and under voice command whole I'm running laps from one end of the park to another. read more

Shirlington Dog Park - 4 mile run creek dog access area - Dog Parks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

By far, the best dog park in the Alexandria/Arlington area. There are several other dog parks which are closer to my home in Alexandria, but I prefer to bring my dog to Shirlington because of how many dogs play here. It isn't uncommon for her to get to play with 20-30 dogs in one day within the span of an hour. It is great socialization and really seems to give her good exercise every time we come. The paved path spans nearly a quarter mile and runs parallel to Four mile Run Creek. Many dogs love to play in the water while just as many prefer to hide in the brush and chase each other around. I drive about 15 minutes each way to take my whippet here a few times a week and it is worth every minute of travel time. She has never been bored and running around with lots of other dogs tires her out for the rest of the day. read more

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This is the best dog park in the DMV! It is an entire trail/park set aside for dogs, with a separate play space for small dogs. I have a rambunctious dog, and here, I'm able to let him off his leash and let him run free and wild. For those willing to traverse down the rocks, there is a stream for the dogs to play in and frolic. Great times! read more

Shirlington Dog Park - Dog Parks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

This is one of the nicest dog parks, as James L. stated, that my pooch and I have been to in the DC area. There is a large area of naturally landscaped grounds for dogs to roam off leash and socialize will one another. All the playful pooches seemed so happy! Getting to the water's edge was difficult for my nearly sixteen year old. He needed a little help (lifting) from me to maneuver his way down the much eroded pathway that all the other bigger dogs, easily managed. The exit from the grounds to the water is gated to prevent stray dogs from leaving/entering at will. It can be a tad chaotic when some owners aren't nearby and you have to hold back their dog to prevent them from escaping. In general, all the dogs I saw were having a great time and all very well socialized. My guy just loves sniffing butts. He doesn't love the water, which is fine by me. My neighbor's terrier had the time of his life retrieving his tennis balls in the water over and over again! read more