Best Dog Parks Near Peoria, IL

Your dog wants to run on acres of green grass and play among the trees. Drink water from a fountain and socialize with other dogs. If this is the case, you must be headed to a dog park.

Dog parks near Peoria, IL

If you are in or near Peoria, IL, there is probably a dog park nearby. From acres of trees, green grass, water fountains, toys and towers you may not have a ton to choose from, but the parks offered there are very nice indeed.

Peoria, IL does have a leash law so make sure your dog is on a leash if he is anywhere outside a closed, private yard. In some of these parks, it is critical to remain on a leash as they are not fenced. Even very well-behaved dogs can get away from you in an unfenced area and most of these parks are located near high traffic areas, so please be careful.

Dog Park Etiquette in Peoria, IL

Most parks offer separate areas for both small and large dogs and offer bags to clean up after them. Just be courteous and aware of etiquette rules for off-leash dog parks.

Here are a few common rules you may come across for dog parks:

  1. Your dog must be well-behaved around other dogs, people and children
  2. Keep your dog leashed in all areas that are not designated as off-leash
  3. All dogs must be fully vaccinated, including rabies
  4. Female dogs in heat are not allowed in the park
  5. Pick up after your pooch (most parks offer waste bags but have one handy just in case)
  6. Some parks require a permit to use the park so check first before you go

Dog Parks In and Around Peoria, IL

Some dog parks in and near Peoria include:

Bradley Dog Park

(309) 673-0892
1314 N Park Rd.
Peoria, IL

Pets will love to get their daily exercise at this fenced, off-leash, 5-acre dog park. The park includes water fountains, waste stations and there are small pools for your dog to play in. There is plenty of shade and plenty of room for your dog to run and play. Dogs must be sociable, up to date on vaccinations and have a license. Dogs also must be under the owner’s control at all times.

Tower Park

309-682-8732
1203 E Kingman Ave.
Peoria Heights, Illinois

Open from April to October; this unique one-of-a-kind 200-foot observation tower has glass elevators for great scenes on the way up, and the top deck gives visitors spectacular views of the river valley and beyond. There is also a children’s playground, an open-air water fountain, and a sculpture of Abraham Lincoln in the park below. The Tower is closed on Mondays.

Dogs are welcome throughout the park and they may also go up in the tower. Dogs must be under their owner’s control, leashed, and cleaned up after at all times.

Vicary Bottoms Dog Exercise Area

(815) 633-9382
Kickapoo Creek Rd.
Peoria, IL

This is a non-fenced dog park so dogs must be well-behaved at all times. There is no water or restroom facilities at this location.

Oakwood Dog Park

(309) 263-7429
22101 N Main St.
Morton, IL

This lovely off-leash dog park is fully fenced and includes a separate area for small pets and woods for shade. There are restrooms and a playground nearby. This park has many trees, dirt and grass and a tire toy for them to play on and many other toys left in the park.

Washington Bark District Off-Leash Dog Park

(309) 444-9413
525 Ernest St.
Washington, IL

This park has separate areas for small and large dogs, is enclosed by fencing, and quickly accessible from the parking lot.

Happy Tails Dog Park at Mineral Springs Park

(309) 347-7275
500 Coal Car Dr, Pekin, IL

Bring your pet to play off-leash at this fenced dog park with separate small dog area, shade trees, and drinking water. No benches are available so bring a chair.

Happy Tails Dog Park in Mineral Springs Park

(309) 346-0285
1701 Court St, Pekin, IL

This field is a designated dog training area. Dogs aren’t required to be leashed, but the area is unfenced.

Things to Keep in Mind When at a Dog Park in Peoria, IL

For every dog park in Peoria, don’t take unvaccinated pets. Do take clean up waste bags. Certain potentially aggressive breeds such as pit bills are not allowed so call the park first and make sure your dog is allowed. Also find out if you need any type of permit as some parks require it.

Keep your dog leashed at all times except in areas specifically marked for unleashed pets. Be careful just traveling from the parking lot to the fenced in area as dogs can be hit by on-going traffic. You don’t want your playful, fun outing to the park to turn into a tragic event.

Benefits of Dog Parks in Peoria, IL

Dog parks offer a great way to alleviate boredom, create bonding techniques, socialize with other pets and have some fun with your pet. Most dogs love going to the park as it breaks up their routine. Many of these parks in Illinois offer shade, water, and plenty of room to run and play.

Please remember the rules, follow them and have a great time at the park with your best friend. If one park does not seem to be a good fit, try another one. These parks tend to be pretty close together so it would not be difficult to pack up and head off to another park. Sometimes it takes some scouting about to find that perfect spot you will want to visit again and again.

If you have any questions or are looking for recommendation regarding dog parks, contact your veterinarian in Peoria, IL. At Whitney Veterinary Hospital, our team is available to help you find the best option for your pet and, most importantly, will always make sure that your dog is fully up to date on their vaccinations.