Where to Find the Most Fun Dog Parks Near Santa Barbara, CA

Find the Best Dog Run Areas in Santa Barbara, CA for Your Pup

In Santa Barbara, dog owners can discover a variety of dog-friendly parks that cater to their furry companions. These parks often feature spacious run areas, agility equipment, and shaded spots for relaxation. The city provides numerous options where dogs can socialize and exercise, ensuring a fun day out. Below, readers will find a curated list of the best dog run areas to explore.

1. 1 Toro Canyon Park

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: 576 Toro Canyon Park, Santa Barbara, CA 93108 🔗

   Rating:

   Good Points	Complaints
   Dog park with designated play areas	The hike can be steep, which may be challenging for some dogs and owners.
   Scenic hiking trails suitable for dogs	No camping facilities available, limiting overnight stays.
   Picnic areas with grills for outdoor meals	Potential presence of poison oak, requiring caution during hikes.
   Common areas for socializing with other dog owners	Limited information on opening hours may be inconvenient for planning visits.
   Restrooms for convenience
   Plenty of parking spaces for easy access
   Playgrounds for children nearby
   Horseshoe pits for recreational activities
   Gazebo for resting and enjoying the views
   Beautiful oak tree coverage for shade
   Access to scenic views of avocado trees
   Private and peaceful environment for relaxation

2. 2 Shoreline Park

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: Shoreline Dr & Santa Rosa Place, Santa Barbara, CA 93109 🔗

   Schedules:

   Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
   7 AM–7 PM	7 AM–7 PM	7 AM–7 PM	7 AM–7 PM	7 AM–7 PM	7 AM–7 PM	7 AM–7 PM

   Rating:

   Good Points	Complaints
   Breathtaking ocean views	Parking can be expensive, with rates up to $12 in some lots
   Leash-free beach access (west side)	Some areas may get crowded during peak times
   Paved walking paths for jogging and walking	Limited shade in certain sections of the park
   Grassy fields for picnics and playtime	Dogs must be leashed in some areas, which may restrict their freedom
   Coal grills for group gatherings	The smaller parking lot may fill up quickly, requiring a search for alternative parking
   Multiple restrooms for convenience
   Two parking lots with varying rates
   Stair access to the beach
   Dog-friendly environment
   Scenic spots for sunset watching
   Space for socializing with other dog owners
   Opportunities for beachcombing with pets

3. 3 Univ Circle Open Space

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: Santa Barbara, CA 93111 🔗

   Schedules:

   Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
   Open 24 hours	Open 24 hours	Open 24 hours	Open 24 hours	Open 24 hours	Open 24 hours	Open 24 hours

   Rating:

   Good Points	Complaints
   Dog park area for exercise	No bathroom facilities available, which can be inconvenient for dog owners
   Nature walks along the creek	No off-leash area, requiring dogs to be leashed at all times
   Shaded picnic areas for owners	Some visitors do not clean up after their dogs, which can detract from the experience
   Play structures for children	Limited excitement for dogs who prefer more active play areas
   Benches for relaxation	The park is primarily an open space, which may not offer enough stimulation for some dogs
   Spongy ground for safe play

4. 4 Hale Park

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: Santa Barbara, CA 93108 🔗

   Schedules:

   Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
   8 AM–6 PM	8 AM–6 PM	8 AM–6 PM	8 AM–6 PM	8 AM–6 PM	8 AM–6 PM	8 AM–6 PM

   Rating:

   Good Points	Complaints
   Off-leash dog area	Limited parking space, accommodating only a few cars.
   Grassy area for dogs to mingle and play	Entrance may be uninviting and easy to miss, as it resembles a field.
   Meandering loop trail for walking and hiking	Trail is short and may not provide a challenging hike for larger dogs.
   Natural scenery with mustard flowers and oak trees	No restrooms or water facilities available on-site.
   Limited parking for visitors	Can be muddy after rain, requiring sturdy shoes and appropriate clothing.
   Access to a short, easy-level trail suitable for dogs	Some areas may have poison oak if venturing off the main trail.

   Dog Parks in other California cities

5. 5 Elings Park

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: 1298 Las Positas Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 🔗

   Rating:

   Good Points	Complaints
   Scenic hiking trails for dog walking	Entry fee on weekends, which may deter some visitors; cash only payment can be inconvenient.
   Designated dog-friendly areas	Dogs must be 'members' to access certain areas, which can be a hassle for casual visitors.
   Benches for owners to relax while dogs play	Limited bathroom facilities during the week, only open for events, which may be inconvenient for park-goers.
   Access to soft grassy fields for dogs to run	Some areas require climbing fences to access, which may not be suitable for everyone.
   Dog waste stations for cleanliness	Parking can be limited during events, making it difficult to find a spot.
   Stunning views for owners and dogs to enjoy
   Picnic areas for dog-friendly outings
   Events and festivals that welcome dogs
   Access to BMX and mountain biking trails for active owners and their dogs
   Nearby paragliding lessons for adventurous dog owners
   RC car race tracks for owners to enjoy while dogs play
   Disc golf course for recreational activities with dogs nearby
   Softball fields for owners to engage in sports while dogs relax
   Rugby training sessions that allow dogs to accompany their owners
   Access to memorial walks for peaceful strolls with dogs

6. 6 MacKenzie Park Dog Park

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: 3111 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 🔗

   Schedules:

   Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
   7 AM–7 PM	7 AM–7 PM	7 AM–7 PM	7 AM–7 PM	7 AM–7 PM	7 AM–7 PM	7 AM–7 PM

   Rating:

   Good Points	Complaints
   Separate areas for large and small dogs	Wood chips in the small dog section can be uncomfortable and too hot
   Spacious play area with wood chips for ground cover	Lack of shade on the small dog side
   Drinking water available for dogs	No restroom facilities nearby
   Poop bags provided for clean-up	Some dogs play too roughly in the big dog section
   Garbage cans for waste disposal	Absence of dog play equipment
   Cement seating area for owners to relax	Limited street parking
   Natural climbing features like big rocks for dogs	No bike racks available for cyclists
   Active social environment for dogs and owners
   Occasional shared toys and balls for play
   Street parking available nearby
   Respectful dog owners who monitor their pets
   No restrooms on-site
   Limited shade on the small dog side
   Potential for future improvements like additional shade and play equipment

7. 7 Tuckers Grove Park

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: 4800 Cathedral Oaks Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93111 🔗

   Schedules:

   Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
   8 AM–7 PM	8 AM–7 PM	8 AM–7 PM	8 AM–7 PM	8 AM–7 PM	8 AM–7 PM	8 AM–7 PM

   Rating:

   Good Points	Complaints
   Off-leash dog park with fenced area	Off-leash dog park can be difficult to locate
   Hiking trails with shaded spots	Dog park area is mostly dirt with limited grass
   Picnic tables for dog owners	Can get crowded on weekends and holidays
   Playground area for children	Some areas may lack shade during peak sun hours
   Horseshoe pits for recreational activities	Limited amenities for dog owners in the dog park
   Open spaces for dogs to roam and play

8. 8 Orpet Park

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: Santa Barbara, CA 93103 🔗

   Schedules:

   Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
   6 AM–10 PM	6 AM–10 PM	6 AM–10 PM	6 AM–10 PM	6 AM–10 PM	6 AM–10 PM	6 AM–10 PM

   Rating:

   Good Points	Complaints
   Large lawn area for dogs to run and play	Steep incline may not be suitable for large groups or certain activities.
   Shaded walking paths for comfortable strolls	Limited amenities; primarily just grass and a picnic table.
   Picnic tables for owners to enjoy meals with their pets	Vegetation upkeep can vary throughout the year, affecting the park's appearance.
   BBQ pits for outdoor cooking and gatherings	Proximity to residential areas may detract from the feeling of being immersed in nature.
   Beautiful ocean views for a scenic experience	Not much to do beyond walking and picnicking, which may not appeal to everyone.
   Jade Plant forest providing a unique natural environment
   Quiet and peaceful atmosphere for relaxation
   Bunny sightings for dogs to observe and engage with
   Convenient location for quick visits or longer outings
   Access to grassy areas for dogs to stretch their legs

9. 9 Hidden Valley Park -

   

   Location Reviews

   Address: Santa Barbara, CA 93105 🔗

   Schedules:

   Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
   8 AM–6 PM	8 AM–6 PM	8 AM–6 PM	8 AM–6 PM	8 AM–6 PM	8 AM–6 PM	8 AM–6 PM

   Rating:

   Good Points	Complaints
   Beautiful green landscape for dogs to explore	No bathroom facilities available, which can be inconvenient for dog owners.
   Safe walking paths along Arroyo Burro Creek for leisurely strolls	Limited play equipment for older children may not appeal to families with bigger kids.
   Picnic tables and benches for owners to relax while watching their dogs	Steep hill leading to the biking path may be challenging for some.
   Toddler playground area for families with children and dogs	Secluded nature of the park can raise safety concerns, especially after dark.
   Secluded environment providing a peaceful atmosphere for dog owners	Heavy equipment for a sewer project may disrupt the park experience in the near future.
   Multiple walking paths suitable for dog walking and biking
   Shaded areas ideal for resting during warm days
   Natural surroundings with fragrant woods for a sensory experience for dogs
   Opportunity for dogs to socialize in a semi-spacious park setting
   Access to a river path for extended walks with dogs

10. 10 Tabano Hollow Open Space

    

    Location Reviews

    Address: 5100 University Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93111 🔗

    Schedules:

    Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
    8–10 AM	8–10 AM	8–10 AM	8–10 AM	8–10 AM	8–10 AM	8–10 AM

    Rating:

    Good Points	Complaints
    Off-leash dog area	Ground is not covered in green grass, which some may prefer for their dogs.
    Water stations for dogs	The park can be more suitable for older dogs, as younger, energetic dogs may feel out of place.
    Dog waste bags provided	Busiest hours can lead to a crowded environment, especially on weekdays from 4 to 6 PM.
    Large garbage cans for waste disposal	Proximity to residential areas requires consideration for noise and behavior.
    Double gate entrance for safety	Presence of golf holes nearby may pose a risk for dogs running off-leash.
    Open space for running and playing
    Tennis balls available for fetch
    Shaded areas for relaxation
    Friendly community of dog owners
    Flexible space for dog packs to roam
    Quiet times for timid dogs
    Room for individual play and fetch
    Accessible park hours (8 AM to 10 AM and 3 PM to sunset)
    Scenic views for sunset walks
    Landscaped areas with less dust

11. 11 Bohnett Park

    

    Location Phone Reviews

    Address: 1251 San Pascual St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 🔗

    Schedules:

    Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
    6 AM–7:30 PM	6 AM–7:30 PM	6 AM–7:30 PM	6 AM–7:30 PM	6 AM–7:30 PM	6 AM–7:30 PM	6 AM–7:30 PM

    Rating:

    Good Points	Complaints
    Clean and safe space for dogs to play	Not a dedicated dog park, but rather a play park that allows dogs, which may not meet all dog owners' expectations.
    Public restrooms available for owners	Tends to attract unsavory characters, creating a gritty atmosphere that may concern visitors.
    Picnic areas for relaxing with pets	Parking can be difficult, making access to the park a challenge.
    Walking paths along the creek for leisurely strolls	The playground is currently closed due to COVID, limiting activities for families with children.
    Playground area suitable for families with dogs	Some reports of litter and potential hazards like broken glass or used needles in the area.
    Nearby bakery for treats and coffee for owners	Regular loitering by individuals consuming alcohol, which may be uncomfortable for some visitors.
    Small creek for dogs to explore and cool off
    Open field for dogs to run and play fetch
    Seating areas for owners to relax while watching their dogs
    Nature trails for light hiking with dogs

12. 12 San Roque Park

    

    Location Reviews

    Address: Santa Barbara, CA 93105 🔗

    Rating:

    Good Points	Complaints
    Park benches for relaxation	Very small park, limited space for activities
    Mature trees providing shade	No benches or tables available for seating
    Quiet atmosphere for peaceful visits	Only one disc golf goal, may not appeal to all
    Disc golf goal for recreational play	Some dogs off-leash, posing a risk to other pets
    Open space for dog walking	No restrooms available, which can be inconvenient
    Picnic-friendly area for owners and pets	Perception of exclusivity, may feel unwelcoming to non-residents
    	Limited features and amenities compared to larger parks

13. 13 Patterson Open Space

    

    Location Phone Reviews

    Address: 500 Calle Aparejo, Santa Barbara, CA 93111 🔗

    Rating:

    Good Points	Complaints
    Off-leash dog area	Restricted off-leash hours for dogs, limiting playtime
    Dog poop bag stations	The creek area currently has no water, which may be less appealing for some
    Park benches for owners	Limited amenities compared to larger parks, such as restrooms or picnic areas
    Walking paths to the creek	Some visitors may find the park too small for extensive activities
    Open grassy space for running and playing	Parking availability may be a concern during peak times
    Shaded areas for relaxation

14. 14 Los Robles Park

    

    Location Phone Reviews

    Address: 4010 Via Diego, Santa Barbara, CA 93110 🔗

    Schedules:

    Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
    6 AM–7:30 PM	6 AM–7:30 PM	6 AM–7:30 PM	6 AM–7:30 PM	6 AM–7:30 PM	6 AM–7:30 PM	6 AM–7:30 PM

    Rating:

    Good Points	Complaints
    Open grassy area for dogs to roam	No playground or play structures for children
    Wild grass for natural exploration	Limited amenities and features
    Quick walking paths for short dog walks	Presence of gopher holes can be a hazard for pets
    Opportunity for dogs to chase gophers (with supervision)	Ground nests of yellow jacket wasps pose a safety risk
    Quiet space for owners to relax with their dogs	Lack of shade within the park itself
    Shade from nearby trees for a comfortable break	Some visitors feel it lacks the charm of a traditional park