We love dogs in Bend! Just take a hike, visit a dog-friendly restaurant, or paddleboard up at Sparks Lake to see our happy four-legged besties in tow with tails wagging. Because dogs are loved so much, and we would do anything to make them happy and keep them safe, there are several accessible outdoor playgrounds right here in town for your poochies to run, sniff, and play until they’re ready to pass out in the back of the car.

Dog parks in Bend include everything Fido will love, from grassy fields, nature trails, and swimming holes along the Deschutes River. Bend Parks & Rec has eight off-leash areas at local parks where your dog can enjoy some tail-wagging freedom and play with fellow canine friends.

Popular off-leash parks in Bend include Pine Nursery Park, Riverbend Park, and Hollinshead Park. The Bob Wagner off-leash area at Pine Nursery is an extensive 18-acre fenced-in area with nature trails, a separate space for small dogs, and a four-acre turf field that’s great for chucking tennis balls and Frisbees. Riverbend Park, located along the Deschutes River, includes a one-acre fenced-in area with access to the river so your doggo can splash in the cool water on a hot day. Hollinshead Park has a three-acre partially fenced-in area with grassy grounds, big trees, and plenty of room to get the zoomies out.

Bend Parks & Rec off-leash areas bring your dog the joy of running free, but there are some rules to follow. You are required to carry a leash at all times, pick up and throw out your dog’s waste (trash cans and pooh bags are provided at most parks for easy and convenient clean up), and make sure they’re good girls and boys and aren’t aggressive to other people and dogs. For more information on locations and the complete list of rules and regs, check out Bend Parks & Rec.

Now that you’ve found the perfect dog-friendly park in Bend, why not treat yourself and your pup to a bite or beverage at a dog-friendly brewery or food truck, then hit the sack, or the floor, at one of many pet-friendly lodging options for a restful night’s stay.

And remember, tell your dog we said hi!