The 8 Best Dog Parks Perfect For Your Playful Pup in Central Ohio

City Guide, Family Friendly, Seasonal, Things to Do

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Written by Step Out Columbus

Published on March 20, 2024
Photo courtesy of Friends of Alum Creek Dog Park on Facebook

If you or you pup are looking for a change of scenery, you may be entitled to financial compensation you’ve come to the right place!

Whether your backyard simply isn’t getting the job done or perhaps your living situation don’t have ample green space for your dog to get exercise, these dog parks are the perfect spots for socializing and burning off all those doggy treats they’ve been sneaking out of your pantry.

These parks have a little bit of everything, so no matter what vibe or amenities you’re looking for, you are sure to find it at one of the parks listed below.

Disclaimer: We created this list based off of personal experience along with community reviews. If you believe we missed a big one, let us know here (or keep the obviously well-kept secret to yourself).

Alum Creek Dog Park

3993 Hollenback Rd, Lewis Center, OH 43035

Alum Creek Dog Park is one of the premier dog parks in the entire state of Ohio thanks to the diverse landscapes offered and how well it’s been taken care of. There are two fenced in play areas for small and large dogs, but the real kickers are the three fenced in areas that allow your pups to swim in Alum Creek Lake! Also, side note, Alum Creek Lake… you can either be a creek or a lake. You can’t be both!

Photo courtesy of Friends of Alum Creek Dog Park on Facebook

Walnut Woods Dog Park

6716 Lithopolis Rd, Groveport, OH 43125

Walnut Woods Metro Park offers several pet trails for your pup, totaling over 7 miles of walkable areas in the scenic park. This isn’t even including the 3 acre dog park for large dogs (20 + pounds) and the 1 acre dog park for small dogs. You and your furry friend will absolutely love the views and the trails here.

Photo courtesy of Walnut Woods Metro Park on Facebook

Wheeler Park

725 Thurber Dr W, Columbus, OH 43215

This park offers walking trails, picnic areas, and a large off-leash area to let your pooch burn through all their energy. This park is 4 acres large, with a rotating schedule throughout the year to keep the turf in top shape. Nothing but the best turf for your best friend!

Photo courtesy of Norma Koutz Wallace Secor on Facebook

Scioto Audubon Dog Park

400 W Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43215

Scioto Audubon is the park that has a little bit of everything! Fishing, kayaking, obstacle courses, rock climbing, and, yes, lots and lots of space for your doggo! Pick between the 10-mile-long Scioto Greenway Trail or the 2.5-mile-long Connector Trails. There are also 2 separate dog parks for both large and small dogs, with half of the newest portion fitted with artificial turf to prevent your dog from getting too dirty. There are also obstacles, balance beams, and a play tunnel!

Photo courtesy of Scioto Audubon Metro Park on Facebook

Glacier Ridge Dog Park

9801 Hyland Croy, Plain City, OH 43064

Aside from the breathtaking views of nature that were carved thanks to the retreating glaciers over 10,000 years ago, Glacier Ridge Metro Park offers plenty of outdoor fun for your pup. With two pet trails totaling nearly 6 miles of exploring, there’s also a 2.5-acre dog park with an open field, pet drinking fountain, paved path, and wooded area for you dog to explore.

Photo courtesy of Glacier Ridge Metro Park on Facebook

Big Walnut Dog Park

5000 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43227

Big Walnut Dog Park offers tons of open space for your furry friend to explore while providing pet parents with portable restrooms, picnic tables, and a kiosk. Big Walnut Dog Park is also separated based off of dog sizes, with one side dedicated to small dogs and one side dedicated to large dogs. Located alongside Big Walnut Creek, this spot is perfectly serene and always a good time.

Photo courtesy of Corky Miller on Facebook

Godown Park

6099 Godown Rd, Columbus, OH 43235

Aside from offering amenities such as dog water fountains, benches for pet parents, and plenty of parking, Godown Park is also HUGE! Your pup will get to explore 10-acres of open green space mixed with wooded portions for the ultimate outdoor experience. Your dog will practically be begging and barking to come back.

Photo courtesy of Geoffrey Zane Miller on Facebook

Heritage Trail Dog Park

7262 Hayden Run Rd, Hilliard, OH 43026

Heritage Trail Dog Park is like an amusement park for pups. Your doggo will get to enjoy a shelter house with picnic tables, a doggie splash pad, plenty of obstacle course equipment, and lots of room to play and explore. The park is also separated into two sections based on the size of your pupper.

Photo courtesy of Heritage Trail Dog Park on Facebook

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