Best Dog Parks in Barrie

The best dog parks in Barrie provide safe and friendly off-leash areas, where you and your dog can exercise and socialize. Play and exercise are vital for your dog’s mental and physical well-being. A trip to one of these parks is the perfect way to attain this, while also strengthening your bond with your canine companion.

Here are the best dog parks in Barrie.

Barrie Dog Off Leash Recreation Area

150 Mapleview Dr E #152, Barrie, ON L4N 0S5

Just behind the Sadlon Arena (formerly Barrie Molson Centre) you will find doggy heaven on earth. This dog park offers two separate, fenced areas: one (0.25 acres) for small dogs up to 30 pounds, and a larger pen (1.8 acres) for all dogs, regardless of weight or size. The larger section is equipped with picnic tables and seating to relax as your dog plays. Dogs are also permitted off leash in the natural area beyond the dog pens, which is also fenced and features a wooded trail. Visitors should be aware that despite there being perimeter fencing installed around the park, the area is not fully secure. This is the result of gaps under the fence line from uneven terrain, overland waterflows, and the movement of small animals. Parking is available in the north BMC parking lot or the south-east lot when the north parking is closed for events. If your dog loves to socialize and has energy to burn, this is an ideal spot. 

Gables Park

Northeast of Bay Lane & Tollendale Mill Road

Gables Park, also known as “The Gables,” boasts 42-acres of secluded wooded space. Though not an official leash-free area, this is a popular park for people to walk their dogs and admire nature. The park provides access to the lightly trafficked Tollendale Loop Trail, which is 1.4 kilometres in length - perfect for you and your dog to enjoy a nice long stroll together. This nature reserve is home to a wide scope of wildlife and bird species, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and bird watchers. The park also features a natural beach, picnic areas and public washrooms. If you’re looking for some quality time with your pup surrounded by the bounty of nature, Gables Park is the spot. 

Sunnidale Dog Off Leash Park

227 Sunnidale Rd, Barrie, ON L4M 3B9

Sunnidale Park is the largest urban municipal park in Barrie, Ontario. This haven of scenic beauty features an arboretum, a community garden, the Dorian Parker Centre, a large children’s playground, and a leash-free dog park. Within the dog park, all owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pet, and there are waste disposal bins throughout. The dog park is located in a natural, rolling setting with lots of hills and rough terrain. The 7.15-acre leash-free zone has a double-gated access system and is secured with 4-foot-high wire fencing. The forested area of the park is fairly dense and features a 2.1-kilometer looping trail with branching paths. The perfect setting for a beautiful hike with your four-legged-friend. Dog owners are invited to park at the Dorian Parker Centre or along Sunnidale Road. This park is dog central with so much to see and explore.

Centennial Park

Lakeshore Dr, Barrie, ON L4N 2M6

Although this is not considered an official leash-free area, this park can serve as an excellent alternative. With a balance of natural features and recreational programming this park has a lot to offer. This 12-acre park serves up a host of activities that can keep you busy the duration of your visit. These include a boat launch, bike trail, sandy beach waterfront, playground, splash pad, concession stands, volleyball courts, and ample picnic space. There are also public restrooms available as well as parking. The beautiful boardwalk and trails are ideal for walking your dog while leashed. Centennial Park is also home to a number of festivals throughout the year, including The Waterfront Festival and Winterfest. The park is located on the west side of Kempenfelt Bay of Lake Simcoe, between Bayfeild Street and Tiffin Street. Known as the true heart of the city, this park offers plenty of things to see and do with something for everyone.