San Francisco is a city that loves its dogs. According to the SF Standard, 22% of SF households have a dog, while only 17% of households have children, so it’s no surprise that many parks have designated dog play areas so your pups can play, run, and tire themselves out after a long day of relaxing and being adorable.
While San Francisco dog parks are common and typically conveniently located for many locals, each park offers unique amenities, rules, and atmosphere. Some are perfect for playing ball, while others are great for socializing. Whether you have a large, rambunctious dog, or one that prefers some gentle grass sniffing and a nap, SF has a dog park for you.
1. Duboce Park
Duboce is a small dog-friendly park located in Duboce Triangle near the Lower Haight. The park is a lively neighborhood gathering place with a designated dog play area, a children’s playground, and basketball courts. Plus, the park is the location of a yearly three-legged dog picnic to celebrate beloved three-legged pups.
📍Duboce Park, Duboce St
2. Alamo Square Park
You may know Alamo Square Park for its breathtaking city views and the iconic Painted Ladies, but this hilltop park also has a large dog play area. Pubs are free to frolic around the grass area atop the hill, with plenty of room to play fetch and chase each other.
📍Alamo Square Park
3. Corona Heights Dog Play area
Corona Heights has a small but popular dog play at the park entrance. The wood chip-filled area has many dogs playing, and you can climb to the lookout point for a stunning view of the downtown area. Some areas in the park require dogs to be on leashes, and the terrain to the lookout point may be rocky or difficult for some pets.
📍263 Roosevelt Way
4. Dolores Park
Mission Dolores is an eclectic park known for its vibrancy and community. While you will see many people enjoying the sun and picnicking, the sprawling park also has designated dog play areas so dogs can partake in the fun. After your pup is tired from playing, you can walk through the Mission District for a delicious post-park meal at one of the many restaurants.
📍19th and Dolores St
5. Alta Plaza Park
This hilltop Pacific Heights park offers 360° views of the city and Bay. The large park covers four blocks, and dogs are allowed off-leash in the park’s southeast corner. The park also has a playground and tennis courts, and your dog can accompany you throughout the park on a leash.
📍Jackson St. &, Steiner St
6. Bernal Heights Park
Bernal Heights offers iconic views of San Francisco from its hilltop summit. The park includes many dirt trails perfect for long walks, plus a designated dog play area that your pup will love while you soak in the amazing views. The park is located in the quiet Bernal Heights neighborhood, just south of the Mission District.
📍Bernal Heights Blvd
7. McLaren Park
This 300+ acre park is the second largest in SF, and its designated dog play area is also one of the largest in the city. The park has two designated dog play areas that allow pets off-leash. McLaren Park has no shortage of things to do; there’s a golf course, playgrounds, an amphitheater, and trails for exploring.
📍John F Shelley Drive & Cambridge Street
8. Stern Grove
Stern Grove may be best known for its free summer festival , but the open park is dog-friendly and allows pups to run around and play. The designated dog park is next to the small lake and has plenty of grassy fields. Be sure to check the summer dates for the music festival; dogs are not allowed in the amphitheater during the concerts.
📍19th Avenue and Sloat Boulevard
9. Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is a destination for SF locals and visitors alike. The massive park has four dog play areas, one being a sand training space for your furry friends. Golden Gate Park has many sidewalks and trails ideal for walking your dog; plus, the scenic park always delivers beautiful views.
📍Martin Luther King Jr Drive and Sunset Boulevard
10. Fort Funston
While there is no shortage of beaches in San Francisco, it can be difficult to find a dog-friendly ocean front spot. Luckily Fort Funston allows off-leash dogs to run through the sand as much as they want. Plus, the beach has plenty of trails to walk or run your dog if frolicking on the beach isn’t enough excitement for the day.
📍 Fort Funston Rd