Where can I let my dog run without a leash in Stanislaus County? See 6 dog parks
As warmer weather rolls in, so do more opportunities to get outside — from yard sale browsing to relaxing walks at the park.
Modesto Bee reader Luis Quinonez asked our journalists with Bee Curious, a community-driven series where reporters answer reader questions about the Modesto region: “Besides Elk Park, is there another good park large enough to let your trained dog roam without a leash?”
Another reader asked where to find dog parks in Modesto.
The Modesto area offers a range of dog-friendly spots — including parks, restaurants and hotels — according to Yelp and travel site Visit Modesto.
Here’s where to find dog-friendly parks across Stanislaus County:
Can dogs roam public spaces without a leash in Stanislaus County?
In Stanislaus County, dogs are generally not allowed to be off-leash in public spaces.
Under Stanislaus County Code, dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than 8 feet when off their owner’s property — unless they’re in a clearly marked, designated off-leash area.
Letting a dog roam freely outside those areas can be considered “a public nuisance” if it disrupts others, according to the Stanislaus County Code.
According to California’s Civil Code, a nuisance is anything that unreasonably interferes with someone’s ability to use or enjoy public or private property.
Where can I find dog parks in Stanislaus County?
Looking for a place to let your pup run?
Here are some popular dog parks across Stanislaus County, according to Yelp:
Elk Park | 601 Morris Ave., Modesto
Elk Park is an off-leash dog park, with plenty of space for pups to roam freely, according to Yelp.
“This off-leash dog park is kept in immaculate condition,” Yelp user Jeanne M. said in a review. “My pups had a good time.”
Neel Park | Boothe Road and Helen Perry Road, Ceres
This park offers more than a designated dog area, according to the city of Ceres website.
You’ll also find playground equipment, fitness stations, picnic spots and a large grassy field.
Oakdale Dog Park | Crane Street, Oakdale
Oakdale Dog Park offers wide, open spaces for both big and little pups.
“We drive up here occasionally just for the beautiful grassy field,” Yelp user Kathy S. said. “Not as busy as the Modesto dog park, but usually a couple of dogs are around.”
Prescott Church Dog Park | 3000 Prescott Road, Modesto
Prescott Church Dog Park is a “roomy dog park,” offering areas for dogs to run and socialize, according to Google.
“There’s not much to the park, but dogs don’t care!” Yelp user Amy said. “There’s plenty of room for many dogs to roam free.”
Quaile Rand Norton Dog Park | 500 South Berkeley Ave., Turlock
Quaile Rand Norton Dog Park is a “relaxed dog park” divided into sections for large and small dogs, with several amenities such as water bowls and waste stations, according to Google.
“What a great park for dogs, lots to do and lots of area with fences to keep your dog inside and safe from running away,” Yelp user Dennis H. said.
Swanson-Centennial Dog Park | Countryside Drive, Turlock
This park is an off-leash area designed for training and socializing pups in a gated area.
“Bring your favorite canine to socialize in a safe, secure environment,” the city of Turlock said on its website.
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