Barking the Byways: Off-leash Dog Parks in Western Iowa

Did someone say dog park?

FitPaws named April as National Canine Fitness Month to bring awareness to canine obesity and remind everyone to keep their dog active and fit.

Although we love our dogs dearly, too many of them suffer from obesity and sedentarism, spending much of their time each day eating and sleeping. Fortunately, these are two of the most preventable conditions dogs suffer from and by reversing them, you can have a major impact on the quality and longevity of your dog’s life. 

One way to keep your furry friends fit is taking them to off-leash dog parks. Many of these parks have agility equipment, while the simple act of playing with other dogs is great exercise for your canine companion.

Dog owners should be courteous and responsible when visiting off-leash dog parks. Most parks require all dogs to be licensed and current on vaccinations. As a result, puppies younger than four months are not allowed in dog parks, as they have not yet received their full dose of shots. Dog waste bags are provided at some parks, but always bring your own just in case bags aren't provided or the supply has been used by other dog owners. Be kind and pick up after your pet.

Below is a list of off-leash dog parks in western Iowa. If we missed any parks, please contact us ([email protected]) and we will update the list. It's prudent to contact the park's manager, usually the city parks and recreation department, to inquire about specific rules and regulations.

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​Dewolf Dog Park
3607 240th Ave, Spencer

​Open dawn to dusk. Double-gated entrance. Separate areas for small & large dogs. Dog waste bags provided. No children under 16 unless accompanied by an adult. Dogs must be current on vaccinations & parasite (flea/tick) control. Dogs must be at least 4 months old.

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Orange City Bark Park
700 5th St SW, Orange City

The Orange City Bark Park is available for summer usage. This park has a large dog area along with a separate small dog area. Located in Veteran’s Park. Dog handlers must be at least 16 years old, and children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Dogs must be 4 months old.

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​Le Mars Dog Park
1509 Holton Dr, Le Mars
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Located near the southwestern entrance to Le Mars, the dog park has water for humans and dogs. Dog waste bags are provided and there is a double-gated entrance to both the large and small dog areas. Dogs must be licensed and vaccinated. Dog handlers must be at least 16 years old, and children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Dogs must be 4 months old.

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​Ken & Jan Kistenmacher Dog Park
103 Sequoia Dr, Cherokee
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​Your dog will love playing fetch in this former baseball field turned into a dog park. Dog waste bags are provided within the park. The park is dedicated to the Kistenmacher's beloved dogs.

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​Bacon Creek Dog Park
5015 Correctionville Rd, Sioux City

Bacon Creek Dog Park is Sioux City's only off-leash dog park.  There are separate, fenced-in areas for small and big dogs.  Bring your dog to run off leash and train them to socialize with other pets!
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Please follow all the rules and regulations to keep this a safe place for all pets and pet owners.

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​Denison Dog Park
2415 6th Ave N, Denison

After eight years of hard work, The Denison Dog Park opened in 2020. The park has received the tender care of loving volunteers and is a great place to take your furry friend for some fun and exercise. Dog waste bags are provided. There are areas for both small and large dogs; both areas have double-gated entrances. There is artificial turf near the entrances and natural grass in the rest of the dog park.

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​​Harlan Dog Park
1200 Grand Ave, Harlan
 
The city of Harlan's dog park, located in Potters Park, opened in 2020. The park is open from sunrise to sunset. As with most dog parks, all dogs must be current on vaccinations. The Harlan dog park requires dogs to be at least six months old to enter. There is only one public access to the dog park and it is located in the southwest corner (nearest the shelter). The other gates at the dog park are padlocked and used for maintenance access. 

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Little Willow Dog Park
1101 W Superior St, Missouri Valley

The Little Willow Dog Park is a peaceful, pet-friendly park in Missouri Valley. Located near I-29 and Highway 30, this popular, fenced-in, recreational area is wheelchair accessible, has lots of parking and picnic tables available on site to relax at after a good run with other dogs. The park is half an acre with a double gated entrance. There are separated areas for small dogs and large dogs. Dog waste bags are provided and disposal stations are cleaned out daily. Hot dogs can cool down at the water station. This park is the first and the only off-leash dog park in Harrison County Iowa. You and your pooch can join in the fun from dawn to dusk every day of the week.

The parking lots and sidewalks were updated in 2022. Come admire the entryway with chainsaw carved dog likenesses carved by known artist Jeff Coss of Bear Grove Chainsaw Carvings! More carvings coming in 2023!

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​Buck Creek Dog Park
102 Buck Creek Rd, Atlantic

Opened on July 31st, 2015, Buck Creek Dog Park is the first unleashed dog park in the city of Atlantic.  A fun place for your four-legged friends.  With space reserved for both big dogs and little dogs, all can find room to enjoy the outdoors.  There are some dog agility equipment for dogs to play on and wide open spaces for a dog to be free while being safe.  Located by the Schildberg Recreation Area.

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​Kevin Bills Memorial Dog Park
1020 Railroad Ave, Council Bluffs

The Kevin Bills Memorial Dog Park is Council Bluffs' first ever off-leash dog park. The dog park is a grassy space on the north and west side of the Midlands Humane Society Facility. Entry requires a dog park membership, which are $100 for a year (one household up to four dogs), with a renewal date of March 31 each year.

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​Red Oak Dog Park
S 8th St, Red Oak

Located on the south end of town, the Red Oak Dog Park has separate areas for large and small dogs. There are picnic tables within the dog areas for humans to relax and enjoy their dogs running, jumping, and playing. A seasonal water pump keeps your dogs hydrated during the heat of summer. A few trees provide shade as well.

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