Olivia Bock has updated this article on 6/10/25 and verified park details, rules, and facilities to make sure everything listed is current and operational.
National Dog Day is Aug. 26. Celebrate with a day at the park with your favorite four-legged friend!
Dog Park Etiquette:
At most dog parks, the off-leash dog area is for dogs and their handlers only, not for other park play.
- Bring dogs that are well trained to socialize appropriately with other dogs.
- Handlers are responsible for their dogs at all times and assume all risks related to using a dog park.
- City dog license rules will apply. This may include a rule that all dogs at the park must be spayed or neutered and healthy.
- Young children (typically under 5) may not be allowed in the off-leash area, and older children should be accompanied by an adult.
- Remember to scoop the poop and dispose of waste in trash cans.
Great Local Dog Parks:
Kansas:
- Heritage Park: The 30-acre grassy area in Heritage Park provides ample space for dogs to play. The area is fenced and includes shade-giving trees, a pond and a walking trail. Parking is accessible, as are the sidewalks, restrooms, drinking fountains and parts of the walking trail.
- Leawoof: Dogs will love this play area in Leawood City Park. Separate areas for large and small dogs will keep your pet comfortable among friends of similar size.
- Shawnee Mission Off-Leash Dog Park: Shawnee Mission Park contains a 44-acre dog park with a paved trail leading to the lake. Dogs will enjoy going off leash to explore the expansive grassland and wooded areas.
- Thomas S. Stoll Memorial Park: This gorgeous park contains an off-leash area with seven acres of open space. Continuous care ensures that this park remains in top-notch condition for your pet.
Missouri:
- Blue Springs Dog Park: Located in Gregory O. Grounds Park, this dog park contains separate areas for large and small dogs. Your pets can chase each other across the open space, run through the agility equipment and splash in the pond. Shady areas and water fountains are available, and a dog wash area is stationed at the exit.
- Dogwood Park: This park’s paved trail and five acres of open space create a picturesque environment for dogs to play. An agility course provides additional entertainment. Restrooms, a drinking fountain and accessible parking are available.
- Happy Tails Park: While dogs run through the agility course, children can enjoy the nearby playground, which contains equipment for both toddlers and older children. Additional amenities include a paved walking trail, a drinking fountain and accessible parking.
- Tails & Trails Dog Park: Ample parking, fencing and seating make this park the perfect place for you and your pet. The park contains agility equipment, drinking fountains and three separate sections for dogs of different sizes.
- Waggin Trail Dog Park: This beloved park in North Kansas City includes a walking trail, an agility course and three tunnel runs. Dogs of all sizes will enjoy the two separate play areas, and owners will appreciate the benches and accessible water fountains.
- Wayside Waifs Bark Park: This five acres of fenced, off-leash park features agility equipment, lights, drinking water, trees and benches. A membership is required for entry.
- Liberty Dog Park: Three fenced areas separate dogs by size in Stocksdale Park’s off-leash area. The park includes an agility course, a fire hydrant, a water spigot and benches.
- Penn Valley Off-Leash Dog Park: This park’s fencing and double-gated entries provide top-notch security for your pet. Larger dogs can chase each other across the main play area, and smaller dogs can play in a separate section just for them.
- Swope Park Off-Leash Dog Park: Among the many amenities in Swope Park is an off-leash area for dogs. The park contains separate areas for larger and smaller breeds.