Contra Costa County is home to 19 cities and a multitude of outdoor recreational activities. From challenging trails to easygoing nature hikes, Fido can tag along for many of the region’s best activities, but sometimes, he just needs to run free. Thankfully, there are several dog parks where your pups can roam and play sans leash. Check out our favorite East Bay dog parks, and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine with your furry best friend.

The Best Dog Parks in Contra Costa County

Concord: Baldwin Dog Park

Connected to the 18-acre John F. Baldwin Park, Baldwin Dog Park is a quaint place to take your dogs, both big and small.

Hours: Wednesday–Monday from 30 minutes before dawn to 30 minutes after sunset, unless otherwise posted.

Rules:

• Dogs must be leashed when entering and exiting the park.
• All dogs must be supervised at all times.
• Clean up after your pet.
• Use is restricted to two dogs per person.
• Small-dog areas are reserved for dogs under 30 pounds.

Danville: Canine Corral

Canine Corral is a 1.5-acre dog park with grass, benches, water fountains, and separate spaces for small and large dogs. 

Hours: Wednesday–Monday from sunrise to sunset, unless otherwise posted.

Rules:

• Children under age 8 aren’t allowed in the off-leash area, and those between ages 9 and 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
• All dogs must have current vaccinations and registration.
• Dogs must be 4 months or older to use the park.
• Dogs may be off-leash in the dog park but must be leashed when entering and exiting.
• Aggressive dogs are never allowed in the park.
• Handlers are responsible for all injuries caused by the dogs under their control.
• Use is restricted to three dogs per person.

Pleasant Hill: Paso Nogal Dog Park 

Paso Nogal Dog Park offers two off-leash areas: One section is reserved for dogs under 25 pounds, while the other is meant for larger dogs. Picnic tables and hiking trails are also available, so make the most of your trip and spend the day enjoying the great outdoors.

Hours: Monday–Tuesday and Thursday–Friday from dawn to dusk, Saturday from 9 a.m. to dusk. The park is closed when wet and for three days after it rains.

Rules: 

• Dogs must be 6 months or older to use the park.
• Handlers must clean up after their dogs while using the Paso Nogal Off-Leash Dog Exercise Area.
• All dogs must have current vaccinations and registration.
• Use is restricted to four dogs per person.
• Dogs may not dig or otherwise damage turf.

Richmond: Point Isabel Regional Shoreline Dog Park

If you’re spending a day in Richmond, Point Isabel Regional Shoreline is a must. With stunning Bay views and plenty of space for your pup to roam free, Point Isabel is an idyllic place to idle away the afternoon.

Hours: Daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. 

Rules: 

• Dogs must be on-leash in parking lots.
• Leashes must be six feet or shorter.
• All dogs must be accompanied by a guardian who has the dog in sight and under voice control at all times.
• Dogs may not dig or otherwise damage park resources.
• Handlers must leash their dogs if they show aggression. 
• Handlers with more than three dogs must obtain a permit.

Walnut Creek: Walnut Creek Dog Park

Located on the northern edge of Heather Farm Park, the Walnut Creek Dog Park offers a full acre of off-leash space with designated areas for small and elderly dogs. Afterward, explore the town of Walnut Creek and reward your pup with a new outfit.

Hours: Friday–Wednesday from 8 a.m. to dusk, Thursday from noon to dusk

Rules: 

• Handlers must park at the Dog Park, not in surrounding neighborhoods.
• Dogs may be off-leash in the fenced-off portions of the dog park but must be leashed when entering and exiting.
• Handlers are legally responsible for all damage and injury caused by their dogs.
• Use is restricted to three dogs per person.
• Handlers must leash and remove their dogs from the park if they show aggression.
• All dogs must have current vaccinations and registration.
• Dogs must be 4 months or older to use the park.
• Handlers must always clean up after their pets.

Have you taken your pup to these spots? Let us know your favorite local dog parks in the comments below.