As the weather begins to warm up in Charleston, you can hear the birds awaken, the sunshine’s brighter, and the fresh salt air is calling. Your BFurry Friend is not just a pet; it is your bestie! If you want to hit the great outdoors, spend some time reconnecting with your dog, and meet other like-minded animal lovers, then these are the best Charleston pet parks to frequent. Who knows? Maybe you and your pup can find some new ties to bind to the community!
Hampton Park Dog Run
Located on Grove Street in Charleston near the City Market is the highly rated Hampton Park Dog Run. If you have a dog that loves to be on the go, this is a perfect run to expend some energy. The park opens at 7 am daily, which means you can get your morning run in before heading to the office. And your fur baby can get all of the exercise necessary to sleep the day away. The busiest times are anywhere from 9 to 6, and the park closes for the evening at dusk. It is famed for its wide-open space, water station, and location, location, location.
Alhambra Playground and Dog Park
Those who spend their time entertaining little kids and pets alike will love the Alhambra Playground and Dog Park. The Dog Park is adjacent to a park filled with swings, picnic tables, and gorgeous live oaks abound. The park and playground are one of Charleston insiders’
favorites and a great place to cool off during the sweltering summer-heated days. Once more, since it is a hidden gem that Charleston natives treasure, it tends to be less crowded, so you can really stretch out. It is an excellent park for you and your bestie to spend quality time being active outdoors together!
East Bay Dog Park
One of the friendliest dog parks in Charleston is East Bay Dog Park. East Bay is located on South Adgers Wharf adjacent to the water. Your pet will love the wide-open green space, water views, and friendly people. If you aren’t within walking distance, no problem – there is metered parking available directly across from the park. Unlike other parks, there is no membership fee, and although it does not have beach access, it is still a wonderful way to spend the day!
James Island County Park – Dog Park
For the water lover, James Island County Park delivers! Beloved by park-goers, it provides acres to run and play. It is also one of the few “off-leash” parks where you can get a ton of exercise, fresh air, and make some lasting community connections. Amenities include restrooms, tables and benches, water fountains, and even a dog-washing area where you can rinse off after hopping in the lake. There is also a separate park for large versus small dogs (under 25 pounds), which is a nice additional feature!
Bridgewater Dog Park
The Bridgewater Dog Park is located on Carolina Bay Drive in Charleston. It is open from 7 am to 7 pm and is busy throughout the day. The park has a pond, benches to sit on, and yes, the beloved fire hydrant – pet-approved! The park provides an “off-leash” area for pet owners who are interested. Some park-goers have had a hard time finding this hidden gem, but when they do, it is a real treat!
Mixson Avenue Dog Park
The Mixson Avenue Dog Park is a smaller and more intimate park experience. It tends to be less busy, so it makes a perfect getaway for the pooch that is a little shy. The park opens at 7 am daily and closes at 6 pm. There are no water fountains, so make sure to bring water for yourself and Fido! It is a great little hideout in North Charleston and if you are local, you will definitely meet and greet neighbors!
Riverfront Park Dog Park
Right along the river rests the Riverfront Park Dog Park. It is located at 1001 Everglades Ave., also in North Charleston. The hours of operation are 7 am to 8 pm, opening earlier on Sunday. Other amenities include shelters, swings, and a playground, so it is a great place for your furry friend and the kids. Make sure to pack some water to drink. You might be able to see the water, but there isn’t any available to sip!
Dog Park at Governor’s Park
Also located in Charleston is the Dog Park at Governor’s Park. They offer a separate area for large and small dogs and it is said that everyone there is “extremely friendly.” There is an open grass area, a forest view, and a gravel area, so there is a little bit of everything for everyone. Charleston’s residents just love the park complex and the shaded bridge where you can catch a breeze any time of year.
If you want to get out, grab some sunshine, and spend some time with your BFurry Friend, there are a ton of places in Charleston to choose from. If the Holy City is one thing, it is animal- and pet-friendly, as are the inhabitants. If you are ready to make Charleston, SC your new forever home, contact Jackie Moore to get the process of home buying or home selling started today!
