A guide to the best dog parks in Austin, Texas

Updated 09/05/23

It’s no secret that pets rule the roost in the city of Austin, Texas. In fact, due to the abundance of pet-friendly restaurants, dog-friendly retailers, and of course, dog parks, Austin regularly ranks among the top ten most pet-friendly cities in the US. Explore hundreds of acres of off-leash space, endless waterside trails, and fenced-in neighborhood hangouts in this guide to dog parks in Austin, Texas. 

The best dog parks in Austin, TX

• Zilker Metropolitan Park
• Auditorium Shores Dog Park
• Red Bud Isle
• Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
• West Austin Neighborhood Dog Park
• Shoal Creek Greenbelt 
• Bull Creek District Park
• Emma Long Metropolitan Park
• Norwood Estate Dog Park
• Hancock Dog Park 

Zilker Metropolitan Park Off Leash Area

Address and map pin: Austin, TX 78746

Located right in the heart of Austin, this 350-acre park is a hotspot for just about everything outdoorsy. Nicknamed “Austin’s most-loved park”, this is one of those dog parks Austin visitors cannot miss. Head here for games of volleyball, kite flying, and picnics galore while pups roam freely in the off leash area (but be aware that the area isn’t fenced in).  

Auditorium Shores Dog Park, Austin

Address and map pin: 900 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704

Found inside Town Lake Metropolitan Park, this is the spot to soak in views of downtown with your pooch pal by your side, especially if you’re dog sitting in Austin. This off leash park is right next to Colorado River, so it’s only fitting there are multiple dog launch pads for pups to cool off in the water. Shady areas, benches, and doggy water fountains make this dog park a go-to in the summer months but it’s best for pups with good recall skills as the area isn’t fully enclosed.

Red Bud Isle Off Leash Area

Address and map pin: 3401 Redbud Trail, Austin, TX 78746

Forget off leash dog parks, Austin’s got a whole off leash island! This 13-acre island in the middle of the Colorado River has a short, circular trail and lots of open space for games of fetch. It’s an off-leash paradise for pooch pals to meet other furry friends, chase some squirrels, and have a real good sniff around. As long as algae levels are low, it’s also a great place for Fido to have a swim while pet parents soak in the scenery.  

Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park Off Leash Areas

Address and map pin: 12138 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78753

Trails follow the creek through almost 300 acres of woodland where you’ll find multiple off-leash areas for pups to explore to their heart’s content. The creek fills with water after heavy rainfall making it ideal for a mid-walk cool-down, but pet parents must keep an eye on pooch pals at all times as the trails are shared with keen bikers.

West Austin Neighborhood Dog Park

Address and map pin: 1317 W 10th St, Austin, TX 78703

Located inside a small neighborhood park, this is one of the most popular fenced dog parks Austin has to offer and has a following of furry regulars and friendly pet parents. The area is equipped with chairs, a water spigot, and plenty of poop bags in case you forget your own, and it’s a safe space for pups with questionable recall skills to run around and make friends. 

Shoal Creek Greenbelt Off Leash Area 

Address and map pin: 2600 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78705

The scenic trails of this park run adjacent to Shoal Creek, which provides pups with ample opportunities to get muddy and dip their paws in the water. Furry friends are welcome to run around off the leash in the designated dog area, but pawrents should be aware that the dog park is unfenced so it’s best suited to pups with good listening skills. 

Bull Creek District Park On Leash Trails

Address and map pin: 6701 Lakewood Dr, Austin, TX 78731

Another popular haven for nature lovers, this park has plenty of space for pups to explore on the leash and users report it’s less crowded than many of the other parks in Austin. Yes, you read that right, although this park does not have a dedicated off-leash area, it’s still a great spot for a stroll (and even a swim) with your fur baby by your side.

Emma Long Metropolitan Park On Leash Trails

Address and map pin: 1600 City Park Rd, Austin, TX 78730

Hiking along the forest trails that pass over streams and through canopies of trees, you’ll notice this park’s a popular place for camping, picnicking, and swimming in the lake. Although you’ll have to keep your dog on a leash while exploring this park, there are always plenty of furry friends to meet and a number of spots to cool off in the water.

Norwood Estate Dog Park, Austin

Address and map pin: 1009 Edgecliff Terrace, Austin, TX 78704

For furry friends that can get a bit carried away on solo adventures, this enclosed dog park gives pet parents peace of mind while their pooch has a run around off the leash. Things can get mucky here due to the wood chip flooring, but we’re sure that won’t phase any four-legged friends who don’t mind leaving the park tired and a little muddy! 

Hancock Dog Park, Austin 

Address and map pin: 3307 Kim Ln, Austin, TX 78705

This dog park is conveniently located in the center of Austin, and it may not be the biggest off-leash area, but it certainly serves a purpose. Running up and down the hills is enough to tire out all four legs, and pooch pals with a taste for digging and rolling around in the muck will love it here. 

When visiting dog parks in Austin remember to come prepared with water and poop bags and use the pet waste stations to keep the space clean. Only ever let your furry friend off the leash in areas where it’s safe to do so, and keep an eye on them no matter how well-trained they are. If you're continuing your dog sitting adventure throughout the US, why not hit up one of these dog friendly national parks?