Unleash Fun: Dog Parks Near Iowa City, IA for Pawsitive Adventures

Find the Best Dog-Friendly Parks in Iowa City for Your Pup's Adventure

Iowa City boasts several dog-friendly parks that cater to furry friends and their owners. Each park features designated dog run areas, allowing pets to frolic freely and socialize with other dogs. These parks often provide amenities like agility equipment and shaded seating for humans, ensuring a delightful outing. Below, discover a curated list of parks where dogs can play and explore to their hearts' content.

1. 1 Thornberry Dog Park

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: Thornberry Dog Pk, 1867 Foster Rd, Iowa City, IA 52245 🔗

   Schedules:

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

   Rating:

   Good Points	Complaints
   Three separate fenced areas for dogs: small, large, and training sections	Annual membership fee of $60 may be considered pricey for some dog owners.
   Agility equipment available in the training area	Water is turned off in late October and not available until April, which may be inconvenient during warmer months.
   Shallow pond with a dock for dogs to jump and swim (Lily’s Pond)	Occasional pond closures due to bad test results, limiting water play for dogs.
   Water stations with hoses and poop bag dispensers throughout the park	Access requires crossing a pedestrian bridge, which may not be ideal for all visitors.
   Dog wash station located at the main entrance shelter area	Some areas may become crowded during peak times, especially on weekends.
   Spacious sandy areas for dogs to play and explore
   Benches and small shelters for owners to relax
   Paved walking loop (1/4 mile) encircling the park
   Plastic pools provided by visitors for dogs to cool off in during hot weather
   Open 24/7 access to the park
   Membership options available, including a yearly fee and a two-day pass
   Family-oriented atmosphere with frequent park-goers familiar with each other’s dogs
   Quiet location on a peninsula with scenic views along the Iowa River
   Access to nearby trails for additional walking opportunities
   Disc golf course and regular golf course located nearby

2. 2 Hickory Hill Park

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: 1439 E Bloomington St, Iowa City, IA 52240 🔗

   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
   Seven entrances for easy access	Limited information available at some entrances, such as Conklin Lane
   Numerous well-maintained trails for walking and exploring	Signage can be lacking, making it easy to get mildly lost
   Dog water fountain for hydration	Some trails may not be suitable for high-heeled shoes
   Picnic tables and benches for resting	Presence of annoying bugs during certain times of the year
   Shelter house for shade and gatherings
   Open spaces for dogs to play and socialize
   Scenic views for photography opportunities
   Wildlife observation areas for birdwatching and deer spotting
   Educational opportunities to learn about local flora and fauna
   Restroom facilities for convenience
   Community support and events for dog owners
   Nature restoration areas for a more natural experience

3. 3 Willow Creek Park - 1117 Teg Dr

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: Willow Creek Pk, 1117 Teg Dr, Iowa City, IA 52246 🔗

   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
   Beautiful walking paths for leisurely strolls with dogs	Trash flowing into the creek from upstream, particularly near the gas station
   Concrete trails suitable for running, biking, and dog walking	Some areas may be crowded during peak times
   Large open fields ideal for playing fetch or frisbee with dogs	Limited parking options during busy hours
   Shaded areas along trails for comfortable walks during hot weather	Ongoing construction of new trails may cause temporary disruptions
   Access to a small creek for dogs to cool off and play
   Nearby restroom facilities for convenience during visits
   Playground area for children, allowing owners to enjoy time with their kids while their dogs are nearby
   Sculptures and natural features along the trails for a scenic walking experience
   Community events and gatherings that may include dog-friendly activities
   Opportunities for socialization with other dog owners in a spacious environment

4. 4 Court Hill Park

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: Court Hill Pk, 2825 Friendship St, Iowa City, IA 52245 🔗

   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
   Open green spaces for dogs to run and play	Bathrooms are not unlocked during non-summer months, which can be inconvenient for year-round visitors.
   Wide bike paths and trails for walking dogs	Some playground equipment may need repairs or replacement, affecting the overall experience for families.
   Picnic areas with benches for owners to relax while watching their dogs	Limited street parking may pose a challenge during busy times.
   Trash cans conveniently located throughout the park for easy cleanup	Lack of clear signage at path forks can lead to confusion for visitors exploring the trails.
   Playground equipment for children, allowing for family outings with dogs
   Stone sculpture climbing structure that dogs can explore under supervision
   Water fountains available for both dogs and owners
   Access to a creek for dogs to enjoy splashing and cooling off
   Sheltered picnic area with grills for gatherings with friends and pets
   Seasonal access to bathrooms for convenience during visits

   Dog Parks in other Iowa cities

5. 5 Hunter's Run Park

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: Hunter's Run Pk, 1050 Duck Creek Dr, Iowa City, IA 52246 🔗

   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
   Walking trail for leisurely strolls with dogs	No public restrooms available, which can be inconvenient for families and dog owners.
   Bridge with creek for scenic views	Lack of trash cans, making it difficult to keep the park clean.
   Paved path suitable for walking dogs	Limited parking options, as parking is only available on the street.
   Limited play equipment for children, allowing owners to supervise their pets	Noise pollution from nearby Interstate 380 can detract from the peaceful atmosphere.
   Two picnic pavilions for owners to relax while their dogs enjoy the outdoors	Playground equipment is limited and may not cater to all age groups effectively.
   Unique play equipment like a rope mountain and animal teeter totter for family fun	No on-site water facilities, which can be a drawback during hot days.
   Serene pond area for dogs to explore
   Open grassy areas for dogs to play and socialize
   Limited shade from young trees, providing some respite for dogs and owners
   Access to prairie grasses for dogs to sniff and explore

6. 6 Peninsula Park

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: Peninsula Pk, 1867 Foster Rd, Iowa City, IA 52245 🔗

   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
   Water access for dogs	Presence of poison ivy and nettles during spring and summer, which can be hazardous for pets.
   Secluded walking trails	Some areas of the course can be muddy for extended periods, making it difficult to walk.
   Benches for owners (though placement may be inconvenient)	Benches are too close to teepads, limiting their usability for resting.
   Port-o-Johns available for convenience	Signage could be improved for better navigation around the park.
   Disc golf course with dual tee pads for varied skill levels	Concerns about safety due to reported vehicle break-ins in the area.
   Practice basket for disc golf enthusiasts
   Wooded areas providing shade and natural exploration for dogs
   Open spaces for dogs to run and play
   Scenic views of the Iowa River
   Opportunities for socialization with other dogs and owners
   Nature observation with potential wildlife sightings (e.g., pelicans)

7. 7 College Green Park

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: 600 E College St, Iowa City, IA 52240 🔗

   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
   Spacious grassy areas for dogs to roam and play	Smaller size compared to other parks, which may limit space for larger gatherings or activities
   Walking paths for leisurely strolls with pets	Sloped terrain on the west side may be challenging for some dogs or owners
   Picnic tables for owners to enjoy meals while watching their dogs	Parking is metered, which could be inconvenient for longer visits
   Playground area for families, allowing dogs to socialize with children	Uphill climb to the playground area from the street may be difficult for some visitors
   Gazebo providing shade and a resting spot for pet owners	Limited dog-specific amenities, such as dog parks or agility equipment
   Bocce ball court for owners to engage in games while their dogs relax nearby
   Park-style grills for outdoor cooking, perfect for gatherings with friends and pets
   Well-lit areas for safe evening walks with dogs
   Nearby bike paths for active owners and their dogs to explore
   Seasonal blooming flowers and trees, creating a beautiful environment for dog walks

8. 8 Scott Park - 640 S Scott Blvd

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: Scott Pk, 640 S Scott Blvd, Iowa City, IA 52245 🔗

   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
   Dog park with fenced area for safe play	Lack of running water and flush toilets may be inconvenient
   Paved trails for walking, jogging, or biking	Only one porta-potty available, which could lead to long waits
   Large open spaces for picnics and relaxation	No baby/toddler swings in the playground, limiting options for younger children
   New playground equipment for children	Limited amenities compared to larger parks
   Pavilions for shade and gatherings	Can get crowded on weekends, especially during peak hours
   Porta-potty available for convenience
   Natural areas for exploration and nature walks

9. 9 Crandic Park

   

   Location Phone Reviews

   Address: Crandic Pk, 51 Rocky Shore Dr, Iowa City, IA 52246 🔗

   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
   Quiet walking trails along the Iowa River	Limited amenities such as benches or play areas for dogs
   Small shelter with a table for picnics	Presence of dog waste can be a concern
   Charcoal grill for outdoor cooking	Some areas may be overgrown with weeds
   Scenic views of the river and wildlife, including eagles	Not ideal for active play or dog runs
   Open grassy areas for dogs to roam and play	Parking area is the only developed space, which may not suit all visitors
   Proximity to the Iowa City Children's Hospital for convenience	Lack of clear fishing spots along the riverbank

10. 10 Rita's Ranch Dog Park

    

    Location Phone Reviews

    Address: Rita's Ranch Dog Pk, S Scott Blvd, Iowa City, IA 52245 🔗

    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
    Three separate enclosures for dogs to run and play	No designated small dog section, which can lead to large dogs being in the same area.
    Agility equipment for dogs	Lack of water features like ponds or bodies of water for dogs to swim in.
    Water available from April to October	Some areas can be wetter and muddier than other parks, which may not be ideal for all dogs.
    Poop bag stations available year-round	Long walk from the parking lot to the play areas, which may be challenging for handicapped individuals.
    Trash bins for waste disposal	Park is not as well maintained or as large as some other local parks, like Thornberry.
    Benches and tables for owners to sit and relax
    Large open fields for dogs to romp around
    Designated area for older or less social dogs
    Free access to the park
    Ample parking available

11. 11 Windsor Ridge Park

    

    Location Phone Reviews

    Address: Windsor Ridge Pk, 1100 Arlington Dr, Iowa City, IA 52245 🔗

    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
    Walking trail for hiking and running with dogs	The park lacks clean spaces for sitting and walking on the grass due to the presence of ducks, which can leave the area messy.
    Picturesque pond with a gravel trail for leisurely strolls	There are no public restrooms available, which can be inconvenient for visitors, especially families with children.
    Shaded areas provided by mature trees for relaxation	Parking is limited to street parking, making it difficult to find a spot close to the park entrance.
    Bird watching opportunities along the pond	There are no play equipment or facilities for children, which may not appeal to families looking for a more engaging experience.
    Quiet spots for reading or enjoying nature
    Open green spaces for dogs to roam and play