Family-Friendly Dog Parks in Westchester
Millions of Americans adopted dogs during the pandemic, which means there are even more dog-families in Westchester than ever before. In fact, there are dogs everywhere—in yards, on streets and especially in Westchester’s best dog parks. Here are some of our favorite dog parks in Westchester — where canines can run and have fun off-leash, and which are enclosed by parks where kids can play and there are plenty of shady seats for parents to relax. While it may be easier to open the back door, we suggest you treat the whole family to a dog park adventure in Westchester.
Family-Friendly Dog Parks in Westchester
The Cedar Lane Dog Park in Ossining is securely fenced in and surrounded by greenery with plenty of shady spots. The mulch and wood chip-covered dog park is divided into size-based sections, with free waste bag dispensers, conveniently located trash cans and water fountains. There are plenty of benches, as well as a dedicated parking lot. Membership is $20 a year. (235 Cedar Ln, Ossining; Open Monday-Friday, 6 a.m.-9 p.m.)
Another great option for dog-owners in Westchester is Sleepy Hollow’s Kingsland Point Dog Park, a clean, scenic, fenced-in dog park with views of the Hudson River, Tappan Zee Bridge and the historic Tarrytown Lighthouse. Surrounded by shady picnic tables, the dog park is located within an 18-acre park, where you’ll find hiking, playgrounds, ballfields and fishing. The $25 annual pass includes parking fees. (Tarrytown Light-Knightsland Point Path, Sleepy Hollow; Open daily, 9 a.m.-7:30 p.m.)
Bring the whole family when you take the pup to the Abrendoth dog park in Port Chester, which has both big- and small-dog sections, and even a section for dogs to be trained. It’s close to a playground that can entertain both toddlers and older kids (with a jungle gym, fire engines, merry-go-round and a tire swing). Plus, there is easy parking and a restroom nearby. (139 Touraine Ave, Port Chester; Open daily, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.)
There are tons of dog-friendly activities in Bronxville, including the Bronxville Dog Park which attracts dogs of all shapes and sizes and is open at all hours. The easily accessible, grassy spot even has its own Facebook page where dog owners revel in the park’s daily happenings. (28 Grove Ln, Bronxville; Open 24 hours)
Nature-lovers will get a kick out of Paws Place Dog Park in New Rochelle, which features crabapple, black cherry and hickory trees. The dog park has two play sections and a thoughtful enclosure for dogs who are small, elderly or shy. There is a water fountain, poop bags and many benches throughout the run. The one downside is that you need a permit from New Rochelle’s town hall. (300 Broadfield Rd, New Rochelle; Open daily, sunrise-sunset)
Peekskill pups will love the Peeksville Dog Park, a pretty, one-acre dog park (part of the lovely Tompkins Park) which is impeccably maintained by an army of dedicated volunteers. There’s a separate enclosure for small dogs and the cedar chip-covered dog park has benches, poop bags and water fountains. The wider park includes a baseball diamond, basketball court and a wooded area with a paved trail. (1795 Main St, Peekskill; Open daily, 6 a.m.-6 p.m.)
Making Pleasantville even more pleasant, the Pleasantville Dog Park has an obstacle course for the dogs and seats for the parents. And in case you forgot your fetch toy, there are always plenty of tennis balls left behind. This dog destination is also part of the enormous Rockefeller State Park Preserve, where families can hike on trails designed to follow the natural flow of the forest. And you can bring the dog hiking too—but don’t forget a leash. (123 Castleton St, Pleasantville; Open daily, sunrise to sunset)
There are so many great places to bring dogs in Westchester—hiking trails, riverside beaches and pretty small towns, but dog runs, especially those surrounded by beautiful, kid-friendly parks, make walking the dog fun for the whole family.
